// definition

Backlink

A backlink is a hyperlink from another website pointing to a page on yours. Search engines treat backlinks as votes of confidence: links from relevant, trustworthy sites signal that your content is credible, making backlinks one of the strongest ranking factors.

Why it matters for developers

Backlinks are usually the reason a well-written new site stalls on page two. Earning even a handful of relevant, quality links — through free tools, guest posts, and genuine relationships — can be the push from page two to page one.