What is the disavow tool?

The disavow tool is a feature that allows webmasters to ask search engines to ignore certain backlinks pointing to their site. It is used when harmful or spammy links cannot be removed manually and may negatively affect rankings. By uploading a file listing these links, website owners request that they not be factored into search evaluations. The tool should be used cautiously, since disavowing legitimate backlinks can reduce valuable authority. It is best reserved for managing toxic links that threaten site performance.