How to Increase Domain Authority

Moz calculates DA (1-100) using machine learning, weighing factors like:

• Linking root domains (most important)
• Total backlinks
• Link authority and relevance
• Spam signals

Unlike Google's algorithms, DA doesn't evaluate content quality or user signals. Compare with link equity for a more direct ranking factor. DA is a useful benchmark, but it's not a ranking factor. Treat it as a directional signal, not a target.

Prioritize these evidence-backed methods:

1. Create linkable assets like original research, tools, or definitive guides
2. Outreach to relevant sites using high-quality backlinks for guest posts or mentions
3. Fix broken links with broken link building replacements
4. Optimize internal links to distribute link equity
5. Remove toxic backlinks via disavow tool when necessary

None of these work overnight. DA updates monthly, and meaningful change takes 3-12 months of consistent effort.

Use these to monitor DA and backlinks:

• Moz Pro (for DA tracking)
• Ahrefs (for competitor backlink analysis)
• Google Search Console (free link data)
• Semrush (Authority Score alternative)

Each tool uses its own crawl and formula. Don't compare DA from Moz with DR from Ahrefs directly. Pick one and stick with it for trend tracking.

Avoid these ineffective or risky tactics:

• Link schemes (violate Google guidelines)
• Low-quality directories (minimal DA impact)
• DA 'boosters' (often spammy PBNs)
• Over-optimized anchor text (risks penalties)

These shortcuts might show a temporary bump, but they're not sustainable. Google's spam updates are getting better at catching them.

Different tools measure domain authority differently. Here's how major metrics compare: