About URL Shorteners
URL shorteners convert long URLs into shorter, more manageable links that redirect to the original URL.
Benefits:
- Makes long URLs more shareable (especially on social media)
- Can track click statistics and analytics
- Branded short URLs can improve recognition
- Can be used to mask affiliate links
How they work:
- User submits a long URL to be shortened
- System generates a unique short code
- Short code is mapped to the original URL in a database
- When someone visits the short URL, they're redirected to the original
Considerations:
- Shortened URLs can break if the service shuts down
- Can be used to hide malicious links
- Some platforms may block certain URL shorteners
- For production use, consider services like Bitly or Firebase Dynamic Links