Let’s break down what Google’s Martin Splitt recently said about using nofollow links and noindex tags on your website. Don’t worry – it’s not as complicated as it sounds!
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What Are Nofollow Links and Noindex Tags?
Nofollow Links:
These are special links that tell search engines, “Hey, don’t count this link when you’re figuring out how important a page is.” It’s like telling a friend, “I know this person, but I’m not vouching for them.”
Noindex Tags:
These tags tell search engines, “Don’t include this page in your search results.” It’s like having a secret room in your house that you don’t want visitors to see.
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Do these hurt your website’s quality?
The Big Question:
Someone asked if using lots of nofollow links or noindex tags on your website makes Google think your site isn’t very good.
Martin’s Answer:
Nope! Using these doesn’t make Google think your site is low quality. Here’s what Martin said:
“No, it doesn’t signal low-quality content to us, just that you have links you’re not willing to be associated with.”
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Why People Use Nofollow and Noindex
- User-generated content: Like comments on a blog
- Uncertain about a link’s future: You’re not sure if the linked site will stay good.
- Private pages: pages you don’t want showing up in search results
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The Takeaway: It’s Okay to Use Them
Using nofollow links or noindex tags on your website is totally fine. Google doesn’t see it as a bad thing. It’s just a way for you to have more control over your site and how it connects to other parts of the internet.
Remember: These tools are there to help you manage your website better, not to make Google think less of your site.
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