Understanding SEO Metrics: DA, DR, TF, CF Explained

Domain Authority (DA)

What it measures

The overall authority of a domain and its ability to rank in search engines (scale: 1–100).

How to use it

Compare sites in the same niche. Higher DA often indicates stronger potential, but lower DA sites can still be valuable for niche audiences.

Domain Rating (DR)

What it measures

The strength of a website’s backlink profile (scale: 0–100).

How to use it

Use DR to gauge how much link equity a site can pass. Even sites with moderate DR may provide quality backlinks if they are relevant to your topic.

Trust Flow (TF)

What it measures

The quality of links pointing to a site (scale: 0–100).

How to use it

Higher TF indicates trustworthy backlinks. Sites with balanced TF can provide quality link signals, but even moderate TF sites can be valuable if relevant.

Citation Flow (CF)

What it measures

The quantity of backlinks to a site (scale: 0–100).

How to use it

CF shows link volume. A balanced CF and TF is ideal, but even sites with high CF and moderate TF can help with SEO and visibility.

Updated on: 26/09/2025