DoFollow vs. NoFollow: Which Guest Post Links Matter in 2025?

In the ever-evolving world of SEO, backlinks remain one of the most critical ranking factors. But not all links are created equal—especially when it comes to guest posting. As we navigate 2025, the debate between DoFollow and NoFollow links continues, with marketers and SEO professionals weighing their impact on search rankings, traffic, and domain authority.

So, which type of guest post link should you prioritize? The answer isn’t black and white. While DoFollow links directly pass SEO value (or "link juice"), NoFollow links still play a strategic role in a well-rounded backlink profile. In this guide, we’ll break down:

• The key differences between DoFollow and NoFollow links
• When to use each type in guest posting
• How search engines treat them in 2025
• Real-world examples of effective link strategies
• Best practices for maximizing SEO benefits

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for leveraging both link types to boost your site’s visibility and authority.

What Are DoFollow and NoFollow Links?

DoFollow Links: The SEO Powerhouses

By default, most hyperlinks are DoFollow, meaning they:

• Pass link equity (also called "PageRank") to the linked page .
• Signal trust to search engines, helping improve rankings .
• Encourage crawling, aiding in faster indexing of new content .

Example of a DoFollow link in HTML:

<a href="https://example.com">Visit Example</a>

NoFollow Links: The Controlled Contributors

Introduced in 2005 to combat spam, NoFollow links include a rel="nofollow" attribute, which:

• Blocks link equity transfer, meaning they don’t directly boost SEO .
• Still drive referral traffic and brand exposure .
• Are often used for paid content (rel="sponsored") or user-generated links (rel="ugc") .

Example of a NoFollow link in HTML:

<a href="https://example.com" rel="nofollow">Visit Example</a>

How Search Engines Treat DoFollow vs. NoFollow Links in 2025

Google’s approach to link attributes has evolved. Here’s what’s changed:

DoFollow Links: Still the Gold Standard

• Directly influence rankings by passing authority .
• High-quality links from authoritative sites (e.g., Forbes, HubSpot) carry more weight .
• Essential for link-building strategies, but low-quality or spammy links can trigger penalties .

NoFollow Links: More Than Just Placeholders

• Treated as "hints" since 2019, meaning Google may consider them for crawling and ranking .
• Indirect SEO benefits:
  • Diversify your backlink profile, making it look natural .
  • Drive referral traffic (e.g., from forums or social media) .
  • Can lead to future DoFollow links if the traffic converts into organic mentions .

When to Use DoFollow vs. NoFollow in Guest Posts

Prioritize DoFollow Links When:

✅ Publishing on high-authority sites (e.g., industry blogs, news outlets).
✅ Linking to cornerstone content (e.g., research studies, pillar pages).
✅ Building long-term SEO value for your brand or client.

Example: A SaaS company earns a DoFollow link from TechCrunch in a guest post about AI trends—boosting domain authority and rankings.

Use NoFollow Links When:

✅ Contributing to user-generated platforms (e.g., Medium, LinkedIn articles).
✅ Including affiliate or sponsored links (to comply with Google’s guidelines) .
✅ Linking to lesser-known sources (to avoid associating with low-quality sites).

Example: A marketer writes a guest post for a niche forum and includes a NoFollow link to their tool—generating traffic without risking SEO penalties.

Best Practices for Maximizing Guest Post Links in 2025

1. Aim for a Natural Mix
   • A healthy backlink profile includes 70-80% DoFollow and 20-30% NoFollow links .
2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
   • One DoFollow link from a DA 80+ site is better than 10 from low-authority blogs .
3. Audit Your Backlinks Regularly
   • Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to track DoFollow/NoFollow ratios and disavow toxic links .
4. Leverage NoFollow for Brand Growth
   • Guest posts on platforms like Forbes (which often use NoFollow) can still boost credibility and referrals .
5. Stay Updated on Google’s Guidelines
   • Google now treats NoFollow as a "hint," so monitor algorithm updates for new opportunities .

Conclusion: Balancing Both for SEO Success

In 2025, DoFollow links remain the backbone of SEO, but dismissing NoFollow links is a missed opportunity. The smart strategy?

• Use DoFollow links to build authority and climb search rankings.
• Leverage NoFollow links for traffic, brand visibility, and a natural link profile.
• Adapt to changes by staying informed and auditing your backlinks regularly.

Whether you’re guest posting for backlinks or crafting a comprehensive SEO strategy, balance and quality are key. By understanding the unique roles of DoFollow and NoFollow links, you’ll maximize both immediate and long-term gains in the competitive digital landscape.

Ready to optimize your guest posting strategy? Start by analyzing your current backlink profile and identifying high-authority sites for your next contribution. The right mix of links could be the game-changer your SEO needs!