A backlink is a link from one website or page to another website or page. Backlinks are important for search engine optimization (SEO) because search engines like Google use the number and quality of backlinks to a page as one of the main factors in determining that page’s ranking in search results. Some key things to know about backlinks:
- Backlinks act as votes of confidence – The more quality backlinks a page has, especially from reputable or authoritative sites, the more trustworthy and important search engines consider that page to be.
- Backlinks help with rankings – Pages with more backlinks tend to rank higher in search results. The better the link sources, the more those links may influence rankings.
- Not all backlinks are equal – Search engines evaluate backlinks based on the relevance and authority of the sites linking to a page. Backlinks from spammy or low-quality sites don’t pass as much SEO value.
- Anchor text matters – The text used for the link matters. Anchor text with relevant keywords signals to search engines what the page being linked to is about.
- Getting backlinks takes effort – Building quality backlinks requires doing outreach, creating link worthy content, guest posting, etc. There are no shortcuts. Automated backlinking tactics could violate search engine guidelines.
- Monitoring backlinks is important – Use tools to regularly check your existing backlinks and watch for sketchy ones. Disavowing bad backlinks when found can protect your site.
In summary, backlinks are very important for SEO and rankings, but they must be earned through legitimate strategies, not bought or fabricated.
