Google Requires JavaScript for Search: What This Means for Users and Developers

In a move aimed at enhancing security and improving the overall search experience, Google has begun requiring users to enable JavaScript in order to use Google Search. This change is intended to better protect Google Search against malicious activity, such as bots and spam, and to provide more relevant and up-to-date information to users.

The Importance of JavaScript

JavaScript is a widely used programming language that enables interactive web pages and is employed by many major websites. According to a 2020 GitHub survey, 95% of websites use JavaScript in some form. However, this requirement may add friction for users who rely on accessibility tools, which can struggle with certain JavaScript implementations.

Security Concerns

While JavaScript is essential for many web applications, it is also prone to security vulnerabilities. A recent survey by Datadog found that around 70% of JavaScript services are vulnerable to critical or high-severity vulnerabilities introduced by third-party software libraries. Google’s decision to require JavaScript may raise concerns among users who prioritize security and privacy.

Impact on Developers and SEO Tools

Google’s JavaScript requirement may also have implications for developers and SEO tools. Some rank-checking tools, which provide insights into Google Search trends and traffic, have reportedly begun experiencing issues with Google Search since the JavaScript requirement came into force. This change may be intended to inhibit third-party tools that rely on Google Search data.

What This Means for Users

While Google estimates that fewer than 0.1% of searches are performed by users who disable JavaScript, this still translates to millions of users who may be affected by this change. Users who rely on accessibility tools or prioritize security and privacy may need to reevaluate their browser settings and search engine options.