Links Demystified – Part 1
Pretty much everybody knows when you click a hyper-link (a.k.a. “link”) your computer typically takes you to a web page. But, if you are on the internet, it’s worth taking a few moments to learn a little more about how links work. This knowledge will keep you safe from some of the pervasive viruses and internet worms floating around today.
What is a URL?
Since you are going to need to know what a URL is for the next section, I’ll explain it here. URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. In simple terms, a URL is the web address of a website. URLs are what you type in the address field of your browser and typically start with http://. A lengthy technical overview of URL can be found here.
Anatomy of a Hyperlink
Every link on the internet or sent by email contains two properties. The text that is displayed (text property) and the Target URL it points to (URL property). The Text Property can be totally different from the URL Property. For example, here are two links to a favorite store of mine:
· HPB
If you hover your mouse over the links above, you will find that both of these point to the same website: halfpricedbooks.com. In some programs, mouse hovering is one way to determine what the Target URL is – in other words, where the link points to. Within your browser, you can typically hover over links and see the Target URL associated with them displayed in a small horizontal bar at the bottom of the browser window (see example below). Or, you can right click any link and select ‘Properties’ to see where the link points to. It’s always a good idea to look here before clicking to ensure you are being taken to the website you intend to visit.

Often you can hover over or right click graphics, like buttons, etc. and select properties to view their target URLs.
Why do I want to see where a link points to?
Many viruses are contracted by clicking on fraudulent links. I received a message from a business associate recently that contained a link to what appeared to be a YouTube video. However, the link actually pointed to a website designed to infect me with the Koobface virus.
Links Demystified Part 2 will (most likely) contain information on URL Shortening, URL Parameters, and Validating URLs.
Please leave a comment or email me with any questions regarding this article.


