Search Engine / SEO Terms Search Engine Search Engine refers to a software system that helps users find information on the internet. It accepts typed or spoken queries and returns a ranked list of results that may include websites, images, videos or local listings. Well-known search engines include Google, Bing and DuckDuckGo. Although search engines seem simple on the surface, they rely on complex algorithms to sort through billions of web pages and identify the most relevant content based on a user’s question or intent. A search engine works in three main stages: crawling, indexing and ranking. Crawling is the process of scanning the web for content using bots that follow links and read pages. Indexing organizes that content into a searchable database, classifying it based on factors like keywords, structure and freshness. Ranking is the final step, where the engine decides which results to show and in what order. This decision is based on hundreds of signals, including content quality, page speed and how users have interacted with similar content in the past. For content creators, marketers and business owners, search engines are a primary way to reach audiences online. Optimizing content to perform well in search results is known as search engine optimization (SEO). A good SEO strategy improves visibility, attracts more clicks and helps build trust with users. Whether you are publishing blog articles, launching a product or sharing nonprofit impact stories, understanding how search engines operate can help you connect with the right people at the right time.