Backlinks and Netlinking: a complete guide

Visit backlinks (or inbound links) are one of the pillars of the natural referencing. Understanding how they work is essential to any effective SEO strategy.

What is a backlink?

A backlink is simply a hypertext link on an external site that points to a page on your site. For Google, each backlink is like a "vote of confidence": the more quality backlinks you have, the more you're considered a reference in your field.

Why are backlinks important?

Google has been using backlinks as a ranking criterion since its inception (the principle of the PageRank). The logic is simple: if other sites cite you, it's because your content is valuable.

Backlinks influence :

• Your : The more quality links you have, the more "powerful" your site
• Your positions : Pages with good backlinks generally rank higher
• Your traffic : A good link can also bring you direct visitors

Not all backlinks are created equal

A link from Le Monde newspaper doesn't have the same value as a link from an amateur blog. Quality criteria :

• Source site authority : A recognized site transmits more SEO juice
• Thematic relevance : A link from a site in your sector is more relevant
• Link position : A link in the content is worth more than a link in the footer
• Link anchor : Clickable text should be natural and varied
• Attribute dofollow/nofollow : Dofollow links transmit authority

What is netlinking?

Visit netlinking is the set of techniques and strategies for obtaining backlinks to your site. It's an in-depth process that requires patience and creativity.

Legitimate netlinking strategies

• Quality content : Create resources that people want to quote
• Press relations : Contact the media in your area
• Guest blogging: Write guest articles on other sites
• Partnerships : Exchange visibility with complementary sites
• Linkbaiting : Create viral content (studies, infographics, free tools)