What Are the Different Types of Backlinks?

Backlinks can be categorized primarily into three types based on their placement and format: backlinks using images, backlinks at the footer of a webpage, and backlinks embedded within the main text. Among these, backlinks that appear within the text hold the highest value in Google’s evaluation, while footer backlinks are considered the least valuable.

Full Explanation

Backlinks are links from one website to another, and their placement plays a significant role in determining their SEO value. Image backlinks involve using an image as the clickable element that directs users to another site. These can be effective but are generally seen differently than standard text links.

Footer backlinks, placed at the bottom of the webpage, are the least valued type according to Google’s ranking algorithms. This is because they are often less relevant and can appear more like site-wide links rather than content-specific recommendations.

On the other hand, backlinks located within the text—the body of a web page—are considered the most valuable. These links are typically integrated naturally within relevant content, signaling to Google a strong endorsement and relevance between the linking and linked sites.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Identify the placement: Determine if the backlink is an image link, a footer link, or a text-based link.
Evaluate the value: Recognize that footer backlinks are generally the least valuable in Google’s eyes.
Prioritize text backlinks: Because backlinks within the main content are the most impactful for SEO, they should be a primary focus.

Real Examples

Imagine you visit a blog post that includes a clickable image linking to another website—this is an image backlink. Now think of a website where the footer includes multiple links to partner sites; those are footer backlinks. Finally, within an article you might see a hyperlink embedded in a sentence or paragraph that directs to a supporting resource—this is a text backlink, and the kind Google values the most.

Common Mistakes

Relying too much on footer backlinks: Since they are the least valued, putting most efforts here can be inefficient for SEO.
Ignoring link placement importance: Not understanding that backlinks in the body text carry more SEO weight can lead to suboptimal link-building strategies.

FAQs

Why are text backlinks more valuable?: Because they are integrated naturally within content, indicating relevance and endorsement.
Are image backlinks effective?: Yes, they can be effective but are generally considered less impactful than text backlinks.
Should I avoid footer backlinks completely?: No, but their SEO value is limited and should not be the main focus.

Key Takeaways

The value of a backlink largely depends on its format and placement.
Image backlinks exist but may carry different importance than text links.
Footer backlinks are the least valued by Google and should be used sparingly.
Backlinks embedded within the main text are the most powerful for SEO purposes.