Domain Authority is a proprietary metric developed by Moz that predicts how well a website will rank in search results on a scale from 1 to 100. This score, calculated using dozens of factors including backlink profiles and linking root domains, helps SEO professionals benchmark competitive strength and prioritize link-building efforts.
Not a Google Ranking Factor
This metric is a third-party prediction tool, not something Google uses in its algorithm. It correlates with rankings but doesn't directly influence them.
Calculated From Backlink Data
The score analyzes linking root domains, total backlinks, and the quality of sites linking to yours. Stronger, more authoritative backlinks increase the score more than weak links.
Best Used for Competitive Analysis
Compare your score against direct competitors to identify gaps in authority and set realistic ranking expectations for competitive keywords in your market.
Logarithmic Scale Makes Growth Harder
Moving from 20 to 30 is easier than 70 to 80. Sites with scores above 60 typically have extensive, high-quality backlink profiles built over years.
Improving Takes Strategic Link Building
Focus on earning links from relevant, authoritative sites in your industry. Quality matters far more than quantity, and natural editorial links carry the most weight.
Track Trends, Not Individual Fluctuations
This measurement updates regularly and can fluctuate. Monitor long-term trends rather than reacting to small changes, and always compare against your competitive set.
What's the difference between Domain Authority and Page Authority?
Domain Authority measures the ranking strength of an entire website, while Page Authority predicts how a specific page will rank. Both use similar calculation methods.
Is Domain Authority still relevant in 2026?
Yes, it remains a useful competitive benchmarking tool. While not a Google ranking factor, it correlates strongly with organic search performance and helps identify link-building opportunities.
What's considered a good Domain Authority score?
Scores are relative to your competition. A score of 40 might be strong in a niche market but weak against major retailers. Focus on exceeding direct competitors.
How can I check my website's Domain Authority?
Use Moz's free toolbar, Link Explorer tool, or various SEO platforms like Ahrefs and Semrush that show equivalent proprietary metrics for site authority.
DA (Domain Authority)
A metric developed by Moz predicting how well a domain will rank in search results on a scale of 1 to 100. While not a Google ranking factor, DA is widely used as a comparative benchmark for evaluating website strength.
Domain Rating
An Ahrefs metric scoring the strength of a website's backlink profile on a scale of 0 to 100. Domain Rating is widely used for competitive analysis and link prospecting, though it is not a Google ranking factor.
Website Authority
The overall strength and credibility of a website as perceived by search engines. Website authority is built through quality content, authoritative backlinks, positive user signals, and consistent topical expertise over time.
Related Glossary Terms
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