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In the context of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), “Follow” and “DoFollow” are terms that relate to how search engines handle links on a website. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Follow Links
- Definition: Any regular hyperlink (without special attributes) is a “follow” link by default.
- Effect: When a search engine like Google crawls a webpage, it follows these links to discover new pages and pass link equity (also known as “SEO juice”). This helps improve the ranking of the linked website.
- Example:
<a href="https://example.com">Example</a>
2. DoFollow Links
- Definition: This is essentially the same as a “follow” link. The term “DoFollow” emerged to distinguish normal links from “NoFollow” links.
- Effect: DoFollow links allow search engines to follow them and pass on SEO value to the linked page. These links can boost a website’s search ranking because they contribute to the website’s backlink profile.
- Example:
<a href="https://example.com">Example</a>
Comparison with NoFollow Links:
- A NoFollow link has an attribute that tells search engines not to pass any SEO value to the linked page.
- Example:
<a href="https://example.com" rel="nofollow">Example</a>
In summary:
- Follow/DoFollow: Passes SEO value, helps improve search engine rankings.
- NoFollow: Does not pass SEO value, often used for paid links, user-generated content, or untrusted sites.