Is the URL ending (domain) a factor in Google's rankings?
Yes, the URL ending, or domain extension (such as .com, .org, .net, etc.), can have a minor effect on SEO and Google's rankings, but it is not a major factor compared to other elements. The primary impact of the domain extension is on user trust and the perceived credibility of the website. Here are some key points to consider: 1. Relevance and Trust: Well-known domains like .com or .org are often perceived as more trustworthy and credible, which may indirectly help with click-through rates and user engagement—both of which Google considers in ranking. 2. Geotargeting: Country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs), like .uk, .ca, or .de, may signal to Google that your site is region-specific, and your website could rank higher for searches made in that particular country. 3. No Direct SEO Boost: Google has confirmed that the domain extension itself doesn’t directly impact rankings. For example, having a .com versus a .net or a newer extension like .shop does not give one a direct advant...