How Short Links and QR Codes Work?
Learn how URL shortening, custom domains, and QR codes work together in this interactive guide
Long URL
example.com/products/category/subcategory/item-name?utm_source=email&utm_campaign=spring2024
Short Link
short.link/abc123
How They Work
Click a tab below to find out more about each technology and see them in action.
Original URL
https://www.example.com/products/category/subcategory/item-name?utm_source=email&utm_campaign=spring2024&utm_medium=newsletter
Short URL
short.link/abc123
The Process:
User enters long URL
The original URL that needs to be shortened
System generates short code
A unique identifier is created
Mapping is stored
The short code is linked to the original URL in a database
Short URL is created
The domain + short code creates the final short URL
Browser requests: short.link/abc123
Server looks up abc123 in database
Server finds original URL and sends redirect
Browser redirects to: https://www.example.com/products/category/subcategory/item-name?utm_source=email&utm_campaign=spring2024&utm_medium=newsletter
Why Use Link Shorteners?
Cleaner Sharing
Short URLs are easier to share on social media, in presentations, and in print materials
Track Analytics
Monitor clicks, geographic data, and engagement metrics for your links
Update Anytime
Change the destination URL without updating the short link or reprinting QR codes
Common Questions
Are short links permanent?
It depends on the service. Most short links remain active as long as the service exists and the account is active. Enterprise solutions often guarantee uptime and permanence.
Can I see who clicked my link?
Most link shorteners provide analytics showing click counts, locations, devices, and referral sources - but not personally identifiable information about individual users.
Do short links affect SEO?
Short links use 301 redirects, which pass most SEO value to the destination page. However, it's best to use your actual URLs for important SEO content.
How small can a QR code be?
QR codes with short URLs can be quite small - typically 1x1 inch (2.5x2.5 cm) works well. Longer URLs require larger QR codes with more complex patterns.
