What is a URL? Definition, Function & Examples
In the increasingly developing digital world, we often hear the term URL . Every time we access a website, whether through a computer, smartphone, or other device connected to the internet, we use the URL to find the page we are looking for. However, what is a URL ? How does it work and what are its functions? This article will discuss in depth the definition of URL , its functions, examples of URLs , and the various elements that make it up.
What is a URL?
URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator . Simply put, a URL is an address used to indicate the location of a resource on the internet, such as a web page, image, video, or other file. The URL serves as a guide for the browser to find and display the resource requested by the user.
URL means a unique address used to identify and access resources on the internet. For example, when you want to visit the Google site, you will type the URL “ https://www.google.com ” in the browser. The definition of a URL can be likened to a home address that shows the physical location of a building, only in a digital context.
URLs are an important element in internet usage because they allow us to access various information and services available in cyberspace quickly and easily.
URL Function
In addition to being a signpost on the internet, URLs have various important functions that support overall web interaction and usage. Here are some of the main functions of URLs :
- Identifying Resources on the Internet
The main function of a URL is to identify resources on the internet, such as web pages, documents, images, videos, or other files. By using a URL , users can find and access the resources they need easily. - Connecting Users with Servers
URLs allow the user’s browser to communicate with the server that holds the resource. The browser will send a request to the server based on the URL provided, and the server will respond by providing the requested resource. - Maintaining Website Structure and Organization
URLs also help maintain the structure and organization of a website. By using URLs , website owners can group the pages of a site into various directories and sub-directories, which makes navigation easier for users. - Supporting SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
URLs that are descriptive and relevant to the content of the web page can support search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. Search engines like Google are more likely to rank websites with clean, concise, and informative URLs highly.
Example URL
To better understand what a URL is , let’s look at some examples of commonly used URLs :
- https://www.google.com : This is the URL for the Google search engine home page.
- https://www.facebook.com/login : This URL directs users to the Facebook login page.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uniform_Resource_Locator : This URL is a page on Wikipedia that discusses Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) .
From these examples, we can see how URLs are used to access different pages on the internet.
URL Structure
Each URL consists of several elements or parts that make it up. This URL structure is very important to ensure that the browser and server can communicate properly in the process of accessing resources on the internet. Here are the elements of the URL structure :
1. HTTP or HTTPS
The first part of the URL is usually HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) or HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). This is the protocol used to send data between the browser and the server. HTTPS is more secure because the data sent over this protocol is encrypted, making it harder to hack.
Example:
- http://
- https://
2. www (Subdomain)
After the protocol, there is usually a subdomain such as www (World Wide Web), although not all URLs use it. The www subdomain is often used, but websites can also function without www .
Example:
- www.google.com
- mail.google.com ( mail subdomain for Gmail service)
3. Domain Name
A domain name is the main part of a URL that shows the identity of a website. A domain name usually reflects the name of the company, brand, or organization that owns the site.
Example:
- google.com
- facebook.com
4. Domain Extension
After the domain name, there is a domain extension such as .com, .org, .net, or .id (for local domains). This extension determines the type of Top-Level Domain (TLD) used by the website.
Example:
- .com (commercial)
- .org (organization)
- .id (Indonesian domain)
5. Path to the Target Resource
This section shows the path to a specific file or page within the website. The path usually begins with a forward slash (“/”) and follows the domain name. For example, /login takes users to the login page.
Example:
- /login
- /about
6. Parameter
Sometimes, URLs also contain parameters that provide additional information to the server. These parameters begin with a question mark (?). After that, there is a key and a value separated by an equal sign (=). If there is more than one parameter, they are separated by an “&” sign.
Example:
- ?id=123
- ?search=query&sort=asc
What is URL Syntax?
The syntax of a URL is the structure and writing rules that every URL must follow in order to be understood by the browser and server. URL syntax includes rules about how each URL element (protocol, domain name , path, parameters) must be arranged in a certain order. Errors in writing URL syntax can cause the browser to fail to access the requested resource.
Types of URLs That Exist
There are several types of URLs commonly used on the internet. Here are some general categories of URLs :
- Absolute URL : A complete URL that includes all elements, from protocol to path. Example: https://www.example.com/page.html
- Relative URL : A URL that only lists the path without the protocol or domain name. Usually used within the same website. Example: /about
- Friendly URL : A URL that is optimized for both humans and search engines, with a clean and descriptive structure. Example: https://www.example.com/about-us
URL Location
URLs are usually found in the browser’s address bar. Every time you access a website, the browser displays the URL of the page you are viewing at the top of the screen. URLs can also be found in hyperlinks, which when clicked, will take you to the page associated with that URL .
How to Open URL
To open a URL , you simply type the URL address in the browser’s address bar, then press Enter. The browser will send a request to the server associated with that URL , and the server will send the requested page or resource.
How to Create a URL
Creating good URLs requires an understanding of URL structure and elements . When creating URLs , be sure to use memorable and descriptive domain names , and create clear and short paths to each page on the website. The use of parameters must also be appropriate and according to needs.
Conclusion
URLs are an essential element in internet usage that allows us to access various resources easily. Understanding what a URL is , its structure, and its function will greatly help in optimizing the web user experience and creating a more organized site. In addition, understanding URL syntax and how to create a good URL will support digital and SEO strategies.
So, every time you type a URL into your browser, remember that you are using a sophisticated technology that allows you to connect to resources all over the world.
References: hostinger.co.id , jagoanhosting.com .
Author: Yazid Yusuf – Directorate of Information Technology Center
