What do our case studies about links as a ranking factor show us?

The Semrush case studies demonstrate that links acquired through 301 redirects are generally not helpful for SEO and can even be detrimental if used manipulatively. While 301 redirects pass some link equity, using them solely to funnel link value from expired domains or irrelevant pages is a black-hat tactic that search engines can detect and penalize. The studies emphasize that legitimate, editorially earned links are what truly benefit rankings. Gaining links too quickly can be a red flag for search engines, indicating unnatural link building, unless those links are genuinely earned and organically owned, which is a key distinction. Focusing all content efforts on data research reports is too narrow a strategy; diverse, high-quality content is important.