An outbound link (or external link) is defined as any hyperlink embedded in the content of a website that points to a completely different domain or resource on the Internet. These links are a constitutive element of the web structure, as they form the connections between individual information units and allow users and algorithms to follow the paths of information.
From an information theory perspective, outbound links serve as citations and references. When one website links to another, it essentially recommends or confirms the information found on the target resource. This is a key mechanism by which search engines assess the credibility and depth of research of the outbound site. Linking to authoritative and relevant sources signals to the algorithm that the page is well researched and integrated into the broader thematic network.
Therefore, outbound links are a two-way mechanism: they not only enrich the user experience, but also represent quality indicators in the eyes of search engines. Strategically managing them, including choosing target domains and using attributes properly (such as nofollow to control the flow of authority), is an essential part of building overall online authority.