Automate Results Ranking

[mikefromvt]

Hi.

We are not able to locate our Google API key. Is the API key mandatory for script building to automate results ranking checks? We have approximately 50 key word phrases and need daily check up.

Thanks

Mike

[chiron]

Technically, the answer I believe is "yes" you need a key, or used to; but practically, in terms of "will it work" the answer is no APi needed, depends on the script or program used though.

Old advice from another thread somewhere, not sure if still valid...

First go to your google account and sign in. Once you are signed in and "cookied", type this in your browser: api.google.com/createkey

Also: IncredibleHelp recently posted about WebCEO and other software of this nature under a ban consideration by Google, just FYI.

[mikefromvt]

Thank you. So, by "ban consideration" you are suggesting that Google is not looking kindly on the type of script we are contemplating?

Thanks

Mike

[chiron]

Jann (IncredibleHelp) from these forums mentioned the general potential for increased vigilance or enforcement recently in his blog:

Their has been much talk in the blogosphere lately of Google banning rank checking software Web CEO and Web Position, so beware ladies and gents.

Which links to here: WebPosition Ranking Software Being Blocked by Google?

Google has been "saying this" (i.e. does not look kindly upon ranking software or scripts) for some years, with some logical reasoning behind it - but my feeling is that with 50 phrases, you could get by with a slow check over time, it's the 500+ lists that tend to seize connection usually. Yahoo is the most sensitive of the big 3 or 4 to being hit with a rank bot, give a randomized 20-30 seconds between queries and you will probably be fine.

AWR (advanced web ranking pro) still functions at the present time, for example, especially with 50-phrase sets drilling to top 100 or less.