hostAge-Sandbox
New domains and new hosts initially receive less trust credit from Google.
01What it measures
New domains and new hosts initially receive less trust credit from Google. They are not penalized: there is simply no behavioral history yet from which Google could draw conclusions. This 'sandbox effect' is passive damping, not an active penalty. As the host ages and builds a positive usage history, the damping fades.
02Derived from
The age of the host (hostAge), meaning how long the domain or host has been known and active.
03How it's measured
hostAge = the age of the host (the domain or sub-domain a page is served from). Young hosts receive less trust credit. This is passive damping, not an active deduction. [B field, C sandbox effect]
04Why it counts here
Only Trust (indirect): the missing trust credit is the only E-E-A-T connection. There is no bearing on Expertise, Experience or Authority.
05What to do about it
Plan for a ramp-up period when migrating to a new domain or launching a new sub-domain. Strategically, set up new domains early so the clock starts running, even if the full content launch follows later. Patience is the only strategy.