Is PageRank still a valid SEO tool?
The value of the Google PageRank toolbar in search engine optimisation circles remains a highly debated item, as are most matters dealing with SEO.
Some SEO specialists say it has no value at all, whilst others argue that it gives you a general overview of your website performance in the in the Google index.
Regardless of who is right, the PageRank toolbar should not be ignored nor place on a pedestal as the be all and end all of Google SEO.
So what is the Google PageRank toolbar?
The Google PageRank toolbar is a simple tool you can download and place on your browser. When you surf the web, this toolbar will give you Google’s PageRank for the webpage you are on.
For more information on PageRank you cab visit an earlier article of mine “PageRank Explained”
The Major PageRank Confusion:
Many people have suggested that Google is not providing the real value of the page in the first place, and that their toolbar is often out of date.
Complicating matters even further are marketers who try to manipulate their own PageRank by buying or exchanging links with other high PageRank sites.
Many SEO experts believe that Google has a long list of ranking factors which determine how well your page is ranked. Among others, these ranking factors include Google’s PageRank algorithm (voting system) and Hypertext-Matching Analysis (analyzing page content).
Google’s Official Position:
If you visit Google’s website for an explanation you will find that Google clearly states that its patented PageRank™ algorithm is the heart of their web ranking system.
You will also discover that Google says it uses numerous other factors “including PageRank” to examine the whole web and find the most relevant and important pages to match a specific search for their users quesries.
At present PageRank takes into consideration over “500 million variables and 2 billion terms” when finding the most important pages. Google makes it clear that each page casts a vote for another page and this is reflected in the PageRank.
Votes from certain websites or pages might have greater value than others. “Important pages receive a higher PageRank and appear at the top of the search results.”
So, is PageRank still a valid SEO tool?
The short answer is YES, but with a slight word of caution. Just like all SEO tactics don’t put all your eggs in one basket. PageRank is important and most likely always will be, but it only makes up one small part of the entire equation.
Use PageRank as a gentle guide for selecting link partners, and check your own PageRank from time to time… but don’t forsake sites with a lower PageRank, simply because the number is low, remember there are many other factors that also weigh in.
Get your free Google Toolbar here: