Glossary
Dofollow vs nofollow links: what's the difference?
A dofollow link has no nofollow, ugc or sponsored value in its rel attribute, so search engines may count it for ranking. A nofollow link carries rel="nofollow", asking search engines not to pass credit, which Google treats as a hint. Both send visitors; only dofollow links reliably pass link equity.
Side by side
| Dofollow | Nofollow | |
|---|---|---|
| HTML | <a href="..."> |
<a href="..." rel="nofollow"> |
| Ranking credit | Yes | Hint, usually little |
| Visitors | Yes | Yes |
| Use for | Editorial links | Untrusted, paid (or sponsored), user content (or ugc) |
| Risk if paid | Link scheme | None |
Which matters more?
For rankings, dofollow links from relevant, authoritative sites. For customers, whichever link gets clicked. A natural profile has both; a profile of only dofollow links is unusual.
In directories
Of 352 directories we checked: 214 dofollow, 79 nofollow, 19 mixed (dofollow with a badge or paid plan) and 40 unconfirmed. Software review sites lean nofollow; AI tool directories lean dofollow. See our dofollow directory list.
Example
A founder's two best listings: a nofollow review site profile sending 200 visitors a month, and a dofollow AI directory sending 15. The first brings customers, the second brings authority. She keeps both.
FAQ
Are nofollow links useless?
No. They send visitors and Google may use them as a hint.
Can I make a nofollow link dofollow?
Only the linking site can change it.
How do I check a link?
Inspect it and read the rel attribute.