What Is a Dofollow Link? [Examples + Best Practices]
A dofollow link is a type of hyperlink that passes on SEO value, also known as link juice, from one website to another. It tells search engines to follow the link and count it as a vote of confidence. This makes dofollow links valuable for improving a website’s authority and search engine rankings. In this guide, we will explain what dofollow links are, how they work, and the best practices for using them effectively. Understanding Dofollow Links Dofollow links are the default type of hyperlink on the web. When you create a standard link, it is usually a dofollow link unless specified otherwise. These links pass on link equity, which boosts the linked page’s authority and ranking on search engines. Search engine crawlers follow dofollow links, indexing the linked pages and recognizing the connection between the sites. Dofollow links are crucial for SEO because they signal to search engines that the linked content is valuable and trustworthy. The more high-quality dofollow links a website has, the higher its authority and ranking potential. However, the quality of the linking site matters more than the quantity of links. Difference Between Dofollow and Nofollow Links Dofollow and nofollow links serve different purposes in SEO. While dofollow links pass on link juice and influence search engine rankings, nofollow links do not. Nofollow links have a rel=”nofollow” attribute, instructing search engines not to follow the link or pass on link equity. These links are often used for sponsored content, user-generated content, or untrusted sources to avoid passing authority. In contrast, dofollow links actively contribute to a website’s SEO by enhancing its authority and relevance. Both types of links are important for a natural and balanced backlink profile. A mix of dofollow and nofollow links indicates organic link-building and reduces the risk of Google penalties. Why Are Dofollow Links Important for SEO? Dofollow links are valuable for SEO because they pass on authority from one website to another. When a high-authority site links to your content, it signals to search engines that your content is credible and relevant. This boosts your website’s domain authority and improves its chances of ranking higher in search results. Moreover, dofollow links drive referral traffic, increasing your site’s visibility and audience reach. They also enhance brand authority and trustworthiness, as users perceive sites with high-quality backlinks as reliable sources of information. Therefore, acquiring dofollow links from reputable sources is crucial for successful SEO strategies. Examples of Dofollow Links How to Get High-Quality Dofollow Links Best Practices for Using Dofollow Links Common Mistakes to Avoid Conclusion Dofollow links are powerful SEO tools that enhance a website’s authority and search engine rankings. They pass on link equity, drive referral traffic, and boost brand credibility. However, the effectiveness of dofollow links depends on their quality, relevance, and diversity. Focus on acquiring high-quality dofollow links from reputable sites using ethical strategies. By following best practices, you can build a strong backlink profile and improve your website’s SEO performance. FAQs Are all backlinks dofollow by default? Yes, most links are dofollow by default unless tagged with a rel=”nofollow” attribute. Can nofollow links become dofollow links? No, nofollow links remain nofollow unless manually changed by the website owner. How can I check if a link is dofollow? Right-click on the link, select ‘Inspect,’ and check the HTML code for the rel attribute. Do dofollow links always boost SEO? Dofollow links from high-quality, relevant sites boost SEO. Low-quality links may harm your ranking.