How to use the URL Shortener
- Paste the full link into the box. You may leave out
https://. - Press Shorten URL. The link is sent to TinyURL, which returns a short version.
- Use Copy result and paste the short link into your message, post or document.
Good habits for short links
- Test the short link in a new tab before you share it.
- Only shorten links you are happy for others to open. Short links can be guessed or shared.
- Tell people where a link goes when you can, because short links hide the destination.
When a short link helps
- Text messages and chat apps, where a very long address looks messy or wraps badly.
- Printed material where people must type a link by hand.
- Social posts and bios with limited space.
When to avoid a short link
- Links to private, personal or password-protected documents.
- Important links that must still work years from now. For those, use your own domain.
- Emails to people who are cautious about unknown links. Hidden destinations can look suspicious.
Frequently asked questions
Which service creates the short link?
TinyURL. This page sends your link to TinyURL, and TinyURL returns the short address. Their own terms and privacy policy apply to links created through them.
Do short links expire?
TinyURL links created this way generally keep working, but this site cannot guarantee that a third-party link will last forever. For important material such as printed leaflets, use your own domain.
Can I choose a custom ending?
Not with this tool. It creates an automatic short code. A custom alias needs an account with a link-management service.
Are short links safe?
A short link hides its destination, so only click ones from people and sites you trust, and avoid sharing links to private documents.
Do short links hurt SEO?
Short links usually redirect to the original page. For links on your own website it is better to use the normal address, and use short links mainly for messages, social posts and print.
Why does my short link not open?
Check that the original link is correct and public, and that you copied the whole short link. If the original page needs a login, the short link will lead to the same login page.
Can I see how many people clicked my short link?
Not with this tool. Click statistics need an account with a link-management service.