Website speed is a major player in SEO, impacting your ranking in two key ways:
1. User Experience: Google prioritizes sites that offer a smooth and speedy experience. Slow loading times frustrate users, leading to higher bounce rates and lower dwell time (time spent on your site). Both are negative signals for search engines.
2. Direct Ranking Factor: Since 2010, Google has explicitly considered page speed in ranking algorithms, especially for mobile searches. Faster loading equals a potential ranking boost.
Think of it this way: If two websites offer similar content, the one that loads quicker and delivers a better user experience is more likely to win Google's favor and rank higher.
The bottom line: Optimizing your website speed is crucial for both SEO and user satisfaction. Invest in speed optimization tools, optimize images, and minimize code to ensure your site loads like a champ!