Backlinks are links from one website to another. When another site links to your content, search engines interpret that link as a signal of relevance and authority.
Backlinks can be set as follow (DoFollow) or nofollow, depending on how the linking site configures the link. This setting determines whether search engines pass authority from one website to another.
Understanding how both types work helps build a healthier backlink profile and a stronger SEO strategy.
This article explains what backlinks are, the difference between Follow (DoFollow) and NoFollow links, how they impact SEO, and how to identify them inside Ubersuggest. It also clarifies whether investing in NoFollow links makes sense for long-term growth.
What Are Backlinks?
A backlink is a hyperlink from one website to another. Search engines use backlinks as ranking signals because they indicate that other websites consider the content valuable or relevant.
Backlinks can be configured in two ways:
- Follow (DoFollow) – Pass authority to the linked site.
- NoFollow – Do not pass authority but still function as normal links for users.
Both types appear in a website’s backlink profile and can be analyzed inside Ubersuggest.
For a deeper understanding of backlink value, see:
What Are Follow Links (DoFollow)?
Follow links (often called DoFollow links) are standard hyperlinks that pass authority—sometimes referred to as “link juice”—from one site to another.
When a website links to your page with a follow link, search engines treat it as a signal that your content is trustworthy and relevant.
Follow links can help:
- Improve search rankings
- Increase domain authority
- Strengthen topical relevance
How to Locate Follow and NoFollow Backlinks in Ubersuggest
- Go to Backlinks Overview.
- Enter your domain.
- Use the filter options to view link attributes.
- Identify which backlinks are marked as Follow or NoFollow.
What Are NoFollow Links?
NoFollow links contain a special attribute in the HTML code that instructs search engines not to pass authority to the linked page.
Although they do not directly influence rankings, they still serve important purposes.
NoFollow links can:
- Drive referral traffic
- Increase brand visibility
- Support natural link-building patterns
- Lead to future organic backlinks
Detecting NoFollow Links in Ubersuggest
- Navigate to the Backlinks Report.
- Apply the NoFollow filter.
- Review the list of backlinks categorized as NoFollow.
Why NoFollow Links Still Matter
Search engines evaluate backlink profiles for natural patterns. A backlink profile made up entirely of Follow links can appear unnatural.
A balanced mix of Follow and NoFollow links signals authenticity.
Even without passing authority, NoFollow links can:
- Send targeted traffic
- Increase content exposure
- Build brand awareness
- Generate secondary organic backlinks
Over time, this indirect impact can support long-term SEO growth.
For additional strategy guidance, see:
Should Users Invest in NoFollow Links?
The goal is not to “invest” in NoFollow links alone, but to maintain a natural backlink profile.
Best practice:
- Focus on earning high-quality Follow links.
- Allow NoFollow links to occur naturally.
- Prioritize relevance over link type.
- Avoid unnatural link-building patterns.
Search engines value authenticity and contextual relevance more than pure link quantity.
Key Takeaways
- Follow links to pass authority and directly influence rankings.
- NoFollow links do not pass authority but still provide traffic and visibility.
- A strong backlink profile includes both types.
- Relevance and quality matter more than link attributes alone.
If you have questions about your backlink profile or need help analyzing Follow and NoFollow links, click the "Help" button at the end of this article to contact our support team.