The Google Sandbox is a term used by SEOs to describe a time period new websites or domains experience limited visibility and ranking potential in Google’s search results. This effect is often observed shortly after a site is launched, during which it may struggle to rank for competitive keywords despite adhering to best SEO practices. The concept suggests that Google places newly created sites in a “sandbox” environment, restricting their ability to gain prominence until they establish credibility and trustworthiness over time. Factors contributing to the perceived sandbox effect include the site’s age, backlink profile, content quality, and overall authority within its niche.
