How Google search works

Google's search engine is a powerful tool. Without search engines like Google, it would be practically impossible to find the information you need when you browse the Web.
Like all search engines, Google uses a special algorithm to generate search results. While Google shares general facts about its algorithm, the specifics are a company secret. This helps Google remain competitive with other search engines on the Web and reduces the chance of someone finding out how to abuse the system.­Google uses automated programs called spiders or bots, just like most search engines. Also like other search engines, Google has a large index of keywords and where those words can be found.
What sets Google apart is how it ranks search results, which in turn determines the order Google displays results on its search engine results page (SERP).