Simple question, simple answer. When creating backlinks, or links within our own site, does it matter if the links open in a new window at all? Are links that don't open in a new window stronger for any reason? Thought just crossed my mind, wasn't sure of the answer, thanks for the info, much appreciated.
Why would you want to open links in a new window, are these internal or external links? Are you talking about using target="_blank", or some other method? If you can flesh out your rationale, perhaps I could offer my thoughts on your question. Justin
Sure thing. For instance, when I write a blog on my site at http://blog.princeporter.com, I often times mention flash games that are on my main page, the arcade portion of the site. I figure I should open those games up in a new window, the user may want to check them out, but they're still reading the article. Obviously this is how I'm going to do it, but I was wondering, do links that open in a new window count for less? Does Google perhaps think that a link opening in a new window and not taking over the current counts for less? I can see how they would, Anyone can externally link to another site, how many people are willing to have those people actually leave their site? It's more of a curiosity question than anything, but I find it interesting none the less.
Many consider manipulating the user's machine to be bad form - a position I generally support. User's know how to hit the back button, or to open a new tab. I am not aware of any impact on rankings however.
The target attribute of an anchor (<a>) element does not affect whether the link is counted as a valid link. Only the rel attribute with "nofollow" as it's value will force an anchor to not be counted.