What is a DoFollow Link?

A dofollow link is a regular hyperlink that passes authority (link equity) to the target page, helping improve rankings.

Understanding DoFollow Links

In the world of SEO, not all links are created equal. DoFollow links are the type of links that search engines like Google recognize as endorsements. When one site links to another with a DoFollow link, it signals trust and authority, which can improve the linked site’s ranking in search results. These links play a crucial role in building domain authority, driving organic traffic, and enhancing overall site visibility. Understanding how to use them effectively is essential for any website owner or digital marketer.

How DoFollow Links Affect Different CMS Platforms

WordPress

WordPress makes it easy to add DoFollow links through its editor or plugins. However, it’s essential to avoid accidentally marking links as NoFollow, which can happen when using certain SEO or affiliate plugins. Proper link management ensures that your content passes authority where needed.

Shopify

In Shopify stores, DoFollow links on product descriptions, blogs, or category pages help boost the SEO of key pages. Misconfigured settings or overuse of NoFollow on internal links can limit the flow of link juice, so regular audits are important.

Wix

Wix allows you to add DoFollow links easily, but users often overlook the SEO settings panel where links may default to NoFollow. Checking link settings ensures that valuable outbound and internal links contribute to search visibility.

Webflow

Webflow gives full control over link attributes, making it ideal for managing DoFollow links. Ensuring that key backlinks, blog mentions, and resource pages are DoFollow helps maximize SEO benefits.

Custom CMS

Custom-built sites require careful HTML or CMS-level configuration to ensure links are DoFollow. Regular audits, proper anchor text usage, and consistent link strategy are crucial for maintaining SEO authority.

DoFollow Links Across Different Industries

Ecommerce

In eCommerce, DoFollow links from blogs, product reviews, or influencer collaborations help increase product page authority and improve search rankings. Internal DoFollow links between categories also enhance site navigation and SEO.

Local Businesses

Local businesses benefit from DoFollow links through partnerships, local directories, and community blogs. These links boost local SEO and help pages rank better in Google Maps and local search results.

SaaS Companies

SaaS businesses gain authority when other high-quality sites link to landing pages, case studies, or blogs with DoFollow links. This strengthens domain authority and helps in competitive keyword rankings.

Blogs and News Sites

For blogs and news sites, DoFollow links from credible sources enhance authority and referral traffic. Proper placement within articles, guest posts, and press coverage ensures SEO value is maximized.

Do’s & Don’ts / Best Practices

Do’s:

Use DoFollow links for high-quality, authoritative sources.
Maintain a natural anchor text strategy relevant to your content.
Audit your internal linking structure to ensure important pages receive link equity.
Encourage reputable sites to link to your content organically.

Don’ts:

Avoid buying DoFollow links from spammy websites.
Don’t overuse exact-match anchor text to prevent penalties.
Avoid placing DoFollow links on low-quality or irrelevant pages.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing DoFollow with NoFollow links and mismanaging link equity.
Ignoring internal linking strategy, leaving important pages without DoFollow links.
Over-optimizing anchor text, which can appear manipulative to search engines.
Relying on low-quality backlinks that provide no real SEO value.

FAQs