The Anatomy of a URL

What is URL

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a unique web address used to locate and access specific resources on the internet.

Parts of a URL

1. Protocol or Scheme

The scheme is the first part of a URL. It tells the browser which protocol to use to open a website. A protocol is a set of rules that helps the browser and website server communicate and transfer data properly.

Common Website Protocols

• HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)

  • Used to transfer web pages on the internet.
  • Less secure.

• HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure)

  • Secure version of HTTP.
  • Encrypts data for safety.
  • Used by most modern websites.

2. Sub Domain

A subdomain is an additional part added before the main domain name in a URL. It helps organize different sections or services of a website.

3. Root Domain

A root domain is the main name of a website. It includes the domain name and domain extension.

4. Top-Level Domain

A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the last part of a website address that appears after the final dot . in a domain name. It helps identify the type, purpose, or country of a website.

5. Path

A path in a URL is the part that comes after the domain name. It shows the specific page, file, or location on a website.

6. Parameters

Parameters in a URL are extra pieces of information added to the URL to send data to a webpage or server. They usually come after a question mark ?.

7. Anchor

An anchor in a URL is the part that points to a specific location of a webpage. It is written after the # symbol.