- The nofollow tag is used to tell search engines not to pass authority to a link
- It helps prevent spam and comply with Google's guidelines
- It does have an impact on SEO, but it is subtle and evolving
- Today, there are other similar attributes, such as "sponsored" and "ugc"
- Using it effectively can strengthen your backlink strategy
What is the nofollow attribute?
For a long time, I didn't realize how important this attribute was, and I'm surely not the only one. The rel= »nofollow » is a small piece of HTML code that you place within a link to tell search engines, «Do not pass any authority to this page.» It’s a form of filtering—a sort of SEO safety valve. This link therefore does not pass on «link juice,» that is, PageRank.
It's not a complete block, but a way to finely control what your site does and doesn't recommend.
Origin and Purpose of the nofollow Attribute
In 2005, Google had had enough of spammy comments on blogs. To combat this, the tech giant introduced the “nofollow” attribute. A simple yet ingenious innovation. Little by little, its use has expanded to other areas: forums, collaborative sites, commercial links… It has become as much a strategic tool as a defensive one.
I see it as a safeguard. It helps prevent unwanted or questionable links from undermining the quality of your SEO.
When should you use a nofollow link?
- Sponsored links: If you're paid for a link, Google requires that you use the "nofollow" attribute.
- Unreliable websites: when you cannot guarantee the quality of an external website
- User-generated content: reviews, forums, customer profiles… you don’t have complete control
In short, whenever you have any doubts about the reliability or intent of a link, the "nofollow" attribute is your ally.
How do you add the nofollow attribute to a link?
It's not rocket science. Here's an example:
Texte du lien ]]>
Just add rel= »nofollow » to the tag. You can also combine multiple attributes if needed. It's simple, fast, and completely under your control.
What impact does the "nofollow" attribute have on SEO?
The «nofollow» attribute isn't a deal-breaker. Contrary to what I initially believed, Google can still follow these links. It just doesn't pass on link equity, unless the algorithm decides otherwise. Since 2019, Google has changed its approach: it now considers “nofollow” as a “suggestion” rather than a strict directive.
So yes, this type of link can still play a role, but only indirectly. It’s a tool for finesse, not brute force.
Other link attributes: sponsored and ugc
In recent years, Google has introduced two new options: rel= "sponsored " for advertising links, and rel= "ugc " for user-generated content. You can also combine these tags with "nofollow":
Lien sponsorisé ]]>
Personally, I appreciate this change. It allows us to be more transparent, more precise, and better aligned with Google's expectations.
SEO Best Practices for Nofollow Links
- Don't use "nofollow" everywhere: you risk weakening your internal linking structure
- Choose the attribute based on the context: nofollow, sponsored, UGC
- Conduct a regular audit of your outbound links: it's a good SEO practice
My advice: Strike a balance. SEO is about intent, not just technique.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About "nofollow"
Are nofollow links useless for SEO?
No, absolutely not. They can help structure your site, prevent penalties, and send signals to search engines. They are strategic tools, not obstacles.
Does Google follow nofollow links?
Yes, since 2019, Google has been able to crawl nofollow links. That doesn't mean it gives them any weight, but it does track them. So this is something you shouldn't overlook.
Should I use "nofollow" on all external links?
Not that either. It’s all about balance. A link to a reliable site that’s useful to your readers has no reason to be nofollow. Trust your common sense and your judgment.
The nofollow tag isn't just a gimmick. It's one of those small details that, when taken together, form a coherent and robust SEO strategy. By mastering it, you gain another tool to guide Google, protect your authority, and enhance the value of your content.
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