A Private Blog Network (PBN) is a group of websites that exist solely to provide backlinks to another website and improve its Google search rankings. PBNs are considered a black hat SEO tactic and are used to manipulate Google search results. SEOs create PBNs by building new websites or buying old domains that are already authoritative, and then linking from those domains to the website(s) that they want to boost. People who use PBNs typically use this tactic to be in "full control" of their link building efforts. However, links from PBNs are not earned and try to manipulate Google search results. PBN websites don’t offer any real value and are just designed to “beat the system”. While PBNs might provide instant gratification, they are considered black hat SEO tactics and a part of link schemes. PBNs can result in negative repercussions from Google, including de-indexing or penalties. Overall, PBNs are nowhere near as effective or reliable as standard, sustainable SEO practices.