A shortlink or URL shortener is an online service that converts a long URL into a shorter URL that points to the same web address.

The service creates a short, randomly-generated URL that is easier to share by SMS, e-mail, or on social networks. URL shorteners are especially useful with social networks like Twitter, which only allows 280 characters per post.

URL shortener example

For example, the URL:

https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/c/cmos.htm

becomes:

http://tinyurl.com/ynkjhp

…using the TinyURL service. When you go to the short URL, your browser contacts TinyURL’s website. TinyURL translates the short URL into the original URL, and forwards your web browser to the actual address.

Internet terms

  • A listing of services capable of doing this and other related tips.