An HTML attribute that prevents security vulnerabilities when links open in a new tab (target=”_blank”).
Why the Noopener Attribute Matters
The noopener attribute is a key part of modern web security. It matters because it is a direct way to protect your website’s users from a security vulnerability. A website that is not using the noopener attribute is at a significant disadvantage, as it can be a source of a security problem. By using the noopener attribute, you can:
- Improve Security: You can protect your website’s users from a security vulnerability known as tabnabbing.
- Boost Trust: A website that is committed to security is a clear signal that your business is a high-quality resource.
- Enhance User Experience: You can provide a seamless experience for users, which can lead to a lower bounce rate and a higher click-through rate.
Across Different CMS Platforms
The management of the noopener attribute is a technical SEO strategy that can be applied to any CMS.
WordPress
WordPress users can easily add the noopener attribute to their links. When you add a link and select the “Open in new tab” option, WordPress automatically adds the rel=”noopener” and rel=”noreferrer” attributes to the link.
Shopify
On Shopify, the noopener attribute is essential for a fast and seamless user experience. You can add the noopener attribute to your links in a blog post or a product description.
Wix
Wix has a streamlined, user-friendly system, but you can still optimize for the noopener attribute. The platform’s built-in SEO tools make it easy to manage your titles, meta descriptions, and on-page content.
Webflow
Webflow gives you granular control over your website’s design and code, which is perfect for a sophisticated security strategy. You can use it to create a perfectly structured page that is optimized for a specific keyword or set of keywords.
Custom CMS
With a custom CMS, you have the most control but also the most responsibility. You can build a system that automatically tracks and analyzes your keyword performance and provides your content creators with data-driven insights.
Across Different Industries
The way you use the noopener attribute will depend on your industry and your goals.
E-commerce
E-commerce sites often have thousands of pages, so a large number of links can be a major problem. It is crucial to use the noopener attribute to protect your users from a security vulnerability.
Local Businesses
Local businesses can use the noopener attribute to build a stronger community. A local restaurant could get a backlink from a local newspaper or a local blog.
SaaS Companies
SaaS companies often use a lot of links in their marketing materials. It is crucial to use the noopener attribute to protect your users from a security vulnerability.
Blogs
Blogs are a great way to capitalize on noopener links. A blog that writes about cooking can get a backlink from a blog that writes about baking.
Dos and Don’ts of a Noopener Attribute
- Use it for all external links: Any time you link to another website and open it in a new tab, you should use the noopener attribute.
- Remember it’s a security attribute: Its purpose is to protect your users and should be used accordingly.
- Avoid using it for internal links: The noopener attribute is not necessary for internal links, as they do not pose a security risk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not using it for external links: This is the most common mistake. It can expose your users to a security vulnerability.
- Using it for internal links: The noopener attribute is not necessary for internal links, as they do not pose a security risk.
- Ignoring the importance of a brand: The Knowledge Graph is a key part of your brand’s reputation.
FAQs
How does the noopener attribute prevent a security attack?
The noopener attribute prevents a security attack by opening the linked page in a new window or tab without giving it access to the original page’s JavaScript and other sensitive data. This prevents a security vulnerability known as tabnabbing.
What is the difference between noopener and noreferrer?
The noopener attribute prevents a security vulnerability. The noreferrer attribute tells a browser not to pass a user’s referral information to the linked website. They are two different but complementary attributes.
Does the noopener attribute affect my SEO?
No, the noopener attribute does not directly affect your SEO. However, it can significantly improve your website’s security and user experience, which can indirectly lead to a rankings boost.
Is the noopener attribute a ranking factor?
No, the noopener attribute is not a ranking factor. It is a security feature that is a best practice for all external links that open in a new tab.
What is a “backlink”?
A backlink is a link from one website to another. It is a vote of confidence that signals a website’s authority and trustworthiness.
