Glossary

URL

Definition: A Uniform Resource Locator is the complete web address used to locate a specific resource on the internet.

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the full address used to access a resource — a webpage, image, file or API endpoint — on the internet. Every URL is unique and tells the browser exactly where to go and how to get there.

Anatomy of a URL

Consider: https://www.example.com/blog/post?id=42#comments

  • Protocol — https:// tells the browser which communication protocol to use.
  • Subdomain — www is the subdomain (optional).
  • Domain — example.com is the registered domain name.
  • Path — /blog/post points to a specific page or resource.
  • Query string — ?id=42 passes parameters to the server.
  • Fragment — #comments scrolls the page to a specific section.

URL Best Practices for SEO

  • Use lowercase letters and hyphens between words.
  • Keep URLs short and descriptive.
  • Include the target keyword when natural.
  • Avoid unnecessary parameters and session IDs.
  • Use HTTPS everywhere.
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