How to Know If You've Been Sandboxed
What is Sandboxed?
Sandboxed is a term used to describe being removed from Google.com's database. Due to the nature of Google's programming, the good folks at Google.com don't like to give away too much information about their ranking algorithm. But here's the theory about sandboxed sites, based on what we've learned in last several years:
If your website has been sandboxed by Google, then either you have not yet been indexed by Google or you've been removed from their database altogether. Google has policies against behavior that they disapprove of; see below for more information or visit Google page on getting sandboxed.
Steps to Check If You've Been Sandboxed
1. Download the Google Toolbar
The Google Toolbar can be downloaded here. Once you've got it installed, you'll want to turn on the PageRank feature as shown below.
2. Go to Your Website
If you're already on your website during the toolbar download, you'll need to hit the Refresh or Reload button on your browser.
3. Check the PageRank
If your site has not been indexed yet, or was previously indexed but no longer is, then your PageRank tool will appear like this:
If your site has been indexed by Google, but has been penalized or not yet evaluated by Google, then your PageRank tool will look like this:
4. I'm Sandboxed - Now What?
First of all, don't panic. If your site is new, then wait a few weeks to be evaluated. If you see the sandboxed indicator on your new site, be sure to submit to Google and create a Google Sitemap. You'll be added within days, just watch.
However, if your site has been around for awhile (several weeks), and you've previously submitted to Google, then you may be in trouble (sandboxed). Read our Best Practices for Not Getting Sandboxed below for help.
5. I'm indexed But My PageRank Sucks
Most sites have a PageRank of 1-3, so you're not alone. And at least your site hasn't been sandboxed. There are several ways to increase your PageRank. Visit our Purchase Services page to see how we can help.
Best Practices for Not Getting Sandboxed
These best practices are fundamental to SEO and SEM experts. If you understand how to know if you're been sandboxed, and follow these simple rules, you'll have nothing to worry about.
- Keep your content on one domain name. Do not mirror your content on several different web addresses, or use the same content on different pages of the same site.
- NEVER add your link to a link farm. The ONLY links you want pointing to your website, are from pages that relate in content to your website.
- Do not use keyword stuffing to trick search engines. Use a Keyword Density Analyzer to make sure your site doesn't appear as spam.
- Don't ever use hidden text to increase your keyword density. Remember, Google knows how to read most HTML code.
- Avoid pointing to sites that have been penalized or have been sandboxed. In fact, try to only point to pages with a PR4+, if you're trying to improve your PageRank.
- Always use your best judgement and write content for your viewers, NOT for the search engines.
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