I’m working on improving my website’s search engine ranking and backlinks seem to be a big deal. The problem is, I have no idea where to even start looking for backlinks pointing to my website. Are there any free or affordable tools I can use to track down these backlinks? Maybe some website detective work strategies?
Free and Affordable Backlink Checkers:
- Google Search Console: This free tool from Google provides valuable website insights, including a “Links” section. It shows websites linking to yours and the anchor text used.
- Ahrefs Backlink Checker: Ahrefs Backlink Checker offers a free version that provides a limited report, showing some backlinks to your website and referring domains. Upgrading to the paid plan unlocks more features.
- SEMrush Backlink Analytics: SEMrush Backlink Analytics provides a free version with a limited report on backlinks and referring domains. Upgrading unlocks more features.
- Moz Link Explorer: Moz Link Explorer offers a free version of their tool, showing a limited sample of backlinks and referring domains. Upgrading unlocks a more comprehensive report.
Website Detective Work Strategies:
- Search Engine Queries: Use a search engine like Google to find mentions of your website. Include search terms like “your website name” + “link” or “your website name” + “keyword” (replace with your actual website name and keyword).
- Social Media Monitoring: Check social media platforms where your brand might be mentioned with a link. Use platform search functions and relevant hashtags.
- Competitor Analysis: Analyze where your competitors are getting backlinks. Use the free backlink checker tools mentioned above to examine their backlinks and identify potential link-building opportunities for your own site.
Backlinks are important for SEO, but finding them doesn’t have to be expensive. Free tools like Ahrefs Backlink Checker or Moz Link Explorer can give you a basic idea of who’s linking to you. For even more detective work, sign up for Google Search Console to see what Google itself finds. Want to get really sneaky? Search for your website address in quotes on Google – you might be surprised what you dig up.