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URL Shortener

Short links with analytics, custom slugs, and optional password protection

URL to shorten

Options

/s/
Your short URL
Original URL:
QR Code for short URL
QR Code
Analytics
Total Clicks

https://example.com/your-long-url

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A URL shortener turns long links into short ones (e.g. https://example.com/s/abc123). Our tool supports custom slugs, optional password protection, expiration dates, basic analytics (clicks, referrers), and QR code generation. All free, no signup required.
  1. 1
    Enter the URL

    Paste the long URL you want to shorten into the URL field. It must start with http:// or https://.

  2. 2
    Optional: Custom Slug

    Optionally enter a custom slug (e.g. my-page) so your short link is easier to remember. Leave blank for a random slug.

  3. 3
    Optional: Password and Expiration

    Optionally set a password to protect the link, and/or an expiration date and time.

  4. 4
    Shorten URL

    Click "Shorten URL" to create your short link. The result will show the short URL and options to copy or generate a QR code.

  5. 5
    Copy and Share

    Copy the short URL and share it. You can generate a QR code for it if needed.

  6. 6
    Clicks and Analytics

    When someone opens the short URL, we record the click and referrer. Expired or password-protected links are handled accordingly.

  7. 7
    Password-Protected Links

    If you set a password, visitors will see a form to enter it before being redirected.

  8. 8
    Use Responsibly

    Do not use the shortener for spam or malicious content. Respect rate limits and our terms of use.

How do I shorten a URL?

Paste the long URL into the input field. You can add an optional custom slug, password, or expiration date.

What is a custom slug?

A custom slug lets you choose the end part of the short URL (e.g. /s/my-brand instead of /s/abc123). We check that it is not already in use.

Can I protect a short URL with a password?

Yes. You can set a password when creating the link. Visitors will need to enter it before being redirected to the destination URL.

Can short URLs expire?

Yes. You can set an expiration date and time. After that, the short link will no longer redirect and may be removed.

What analytics are tracked?

We store clicks, timestamps, and referrer information for each short URL. You can view basic stats if you have the link details.

How long are short URLs kept?

Short URLs are stored for up to one year by default. You can set a shorter expiration when creating the link.

Are there usage limits?

Only use our shortener for links you own or have permission to share. Do not use it for spam, phishing, or malicious content.

Can I create a QR code for a short URL?

Yes. After shortening, click "QR Code" to generate a QR code. Download it in PNG format for print or digital use.

Is there a rate limit?

We use a sliding-window rate limit per IP (e.g. 30 URLs per hour) to prevent abuse. Normal use is well within these limits.

Can I get a QR code for my short URL?

Yes. After creating a short link, click "QR Code" to generate a QR code for it. You can then download the image.

Use Descriptive Custom Slugs

Instead of random characters, use meaningful slugs like /spring-sale or /menu-2024. Descriptive slugs are easier to remember, type, and build trust when shared.

Set Expiration Dates for Temporary Links

Use expiration dates for time-limited campaigns, event registrations, or temporary access. Expired links prevent outdated content from being accessed after the campaign ends.

Monitor Click Analytics

Track click counts, referral sources, and geographic data to understand how your links perform. Use this data to optimize marketing campaigns and content distribution.

Protect Sensitive Links with Passwords

Use password protection for links to private documents, internal resources, or restricted content. This adds an extra layer of access control beyond the link itself.

Test Links Before Sharing

Always click your shortened link to verify it redirects to the correct destination. A broken link in a marketing campaign or presentation damages credibility.

Keep a Link Inventory

Maintain a record of all shortened links, their destinations, and purposes. This helps you manage, update, and retire links systematically as campaigns evolve.

Use Separate Links per Distribution Channel

Use different short links for different distribution channels (email, social media, print) pointing to the same destination. This lets you compare click counts per channel and understand where your audience comes from.

Combine Short Links with QR Codes

Pair your short URL with a QR code for offline distribution. Print both on marketing materials so audiences can either type the short URL or scan the code depending on their preference and context.

Avoid Shortening Critical Infrastructure Links

Avoid using URL shorteners for critical infrastructure links like login pages, payment forms, or API endpoints. Shortened links add a redirect step and create dependency on the shortener service being available.

Preview Unknown Short Links Before Clicking

Before clicking any shortened URL from an unknown source, use a URL expander service to preview the destination. Malicious actors use URL shorteners to disguise phishing and malware links. Always verify the destination of unfamiliar short links.

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