PageRank, an algorithm developed by Google’s co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin in 1997, is used to measure the importance of web pages based on the number of backlinks. It evaluates the number and quality of links to the page to evaluate the relevance and authority.
In 2016, Google stopped giving out PageRank scores. However, backlinks are still a ranking factor in Google.
Why is PageRank Important?
PageRank enables Google to evaluate a page’s authority and pieces of content and links that connect it. Web pages with better backlinks can rank better in Google. These days, SEO does not rely on a single ranking factor, Google looks for many high-quality backlinks to help boost the visibility of a website.Â
Best SEO Practices for PageRank
- Make sure that you internally link from your high-authority pages to your core content.
- To fix broken links, you must set up redirects for malfunctioning web pages or customize your 404 pages to maintain link equity.
- Attracting good backlinks is more important than getting too many backlinks.Â
- Make interesting, relevant content that will get you organic links.
- Make sure your website loads quickly, works well on mobile devices, and is organized.
- Ensure a Variety of Links: Make sure that the backlinks are varied and toxic links are disavowed.
Although the Google algorithm has evolved, the concept of PageRank still influences search rankings today.