What is Domain Authority?


What You Need to Know about Domain Authority

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.


Frequently Asked Questions about Domain Authority

1. 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.

2. Is Domain Authority still relevant in 2025?

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.

3. 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.

4. 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.


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Related Terms

Not Provided In Google Analytics

Not Provided is Google Analytics’ label for encrypted organic search queries hidden from site owners since 2013’s HTTPS switch.

Not Provided in Google Analytics

Domain

The unique domain name identifying a website. This foundation affects search visibility, crawlability, brand trust, and authority accumulation.

Domain

Metric

Measurable data points that track SEO performance, website health, and the business impact of organic search initiatives.

Metric

Organic Traffic

Visitors who arrive at a website through unpaid search engine results, representing a sustainable source of qualified leads and customers.

Organic Traffic


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