What is link popularity?
Link popularity is a measure of the number of hyperlinks that refer to a website. This key figure is normally determined by the algorithm defined by Google.
What does link popularity mean for SEO?
Link popularity no longer has an exclusive effect on search engine rankings. Instead, many other important factors play a role. In the past, website operators manipulated link profiles a great deal in order to achieve a good ranking. Today, only quality links are relevant for a good search engine ranking, rather than many links. There are also numerous other criteria such as good content, optimal structure and topic relevance.
Search engine optimizers must also pay particular attention to the area of topic relevance with regard to link building. If, for example, there are links from completely off-topic blogs, Google will take a very close look at them. Purchased links are an absolute no-go. If such links are found, the websites concerned will be penalized. They are either downgraded in the ranking or completely removed from the index.
How is link popularity increased?
Website operators and optimizers should only use permitted methods. Preferably, the links should point to websites with a lot of added value that fit the topic. Website operators should only place links if they really consider them to be good. Spam links should only appear to a limited extent or not at all in order not to jeopardize a good ranking.
