How does Yandex determine the IKS (website quality score), and what is its direct impact on search visibility?

Yandex determines the IKS (Index of Site Quality), also known as the website quality score, through a complex algorithm that analyzes numerous factors related to a website's quality, relevance, and user experience. These factors include, but aren't limited to, website traffic, user behavior metrics like bounce rate and time on site, content quality and uniqueness, the presence of up-to-date and accurate contact information, website design and usability, mobile-friendliness, security (HTTPS), and the quality and relevance of backlinks. The algorithm also considers user reviews and feedback when available. It is important to note that IKS is not publicly available. The direct impact of the IKS on search visibility is significant: websites with higher IKS values generally receive better rankings in Yandex search results for relevant queries. A higher IKS signals to Yandex that the website is a trustworthy, authoritative, and user-friendly resource, leading to improved organic visibility. Conversely, a low IKS can result in lower rankings, reduced traffic, and decreased visibility in Yandex search. Yandex may penalize websites with low IKS if they are seen as providing poor user experiences or lacking in quality. Therefore, maintaining a high IKS is crucial for achieving and sustaining strong organic search performance in Yandex.