AI crawler
A bot that fetches web pages to feed AI systems, such as GPTBot or Google-Extended, distinct from the classic search crawler.
In depth
What it really means
AI crawlers are bots that collect web content for AI systems, whether to train models or to retrieve live answers. Examples include OpenAI’s GPTBot and Google-Extended. They are separate from the traditional search crawler, and you can allow or block them.
If you want AI visibility, these crawlers need to be able to reach your content. Blocking them keeps you out of the answers they generate.
Best practices
- Decide deliberately whether to allow AI crawlers.
- If you want AI visibility, don’t block the major AI bots.
- Keep important content crawlable and fast.
- Use robots directives intentionally, not by accident.
- Review your logs to see which AI bots visit.
FAQs
What is an AI crawler?
A bot that fetches web pages for AI systems, to train models or retrieve live answers. Examples include GPTBot and Google-Extended.
How is it different from a search crawler?
Search crawlers index pages for search results; AI crawlers gather content for AI training or answers. They are separate bots.
Should I block AI crawlers?
It depends on your goals. Blocking them protects content but also keeps you out of the AI answers they power.
How do I control AI crawlers?
Through robots.txt directives and, on some platforms, specific bot controls. Decide deliberately rather than by default.
Which AI crawlers matter?
GPTBot, Google-Extended and similar bots from the major AI providers are the ones to know.
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