{"id":2306,"date":"2022-09-03T08:48:07","date_gmt":"2022-09-03T08:48:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/?p=2306"},"modified":"2022-09-04T04:12:10","modified_gmt":"2022-09-04T04:12:10","slug":"how-to-shorten-urls","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Shorten URLs &#8211; Full Guide, Tips, Examples &#038; More"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#What_are_URL_Shorteners_and_How_Do_They_Work\" >What are URL Shorteners, and How Do They Work?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#How_to_Use_Pixelfys_Fast_Shortener_Tool_to_Create_Shortened_Links_Step-by-Step_Guide\" >How to Use Pixelfy\u2019s Fast Shortener Tool to Create Shortened Links? (Step-by-Step Guide)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#How_to_Use_Pixelfys_Chrome_Extension_to_Shorten_URLs_Step-by-Step_Guide\" >How to Use Pixelfy\u2019s Chrome Extension to Shorten URLs? (Step-by-Step Guide)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Custom_URL_Shorteners_and_Brands\" >Custom URL Shorteners and Brands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#How_to_Create_Custom_URLs_with_Pixelfys_Any_URL_Shortener_Step-by-Step_Guide\" >How to Create Custom URLs with Pixelfy\u2019s Any URL Shortener? (Step-by-Step Guide)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Connect_a_Custom_Domain_with_Pixelfy\" >Connect a Custom Domain with Pixelfy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Create_a_Custom_Shortened_URL_with_Pixelfy\" >Create a Custom Shortened URL with Pixelfy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Do_URL_Shorteners_Hurt_SEO\" >Do URL Shorteners Hurt SEO?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Why_Use_URL_Shorteners\" >Why Use URL Shorteners?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Why_Should_I_Use_a_Custom_URL_Shortener_and_Not_a_Generic_One\" >Why Should I Use a Custom URL Shortener and Not a Generic One?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Can_I_Get_a_Free_Custom_URL_Shortener\" >Can I Get a Free Custom URL Shortener?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#What_Other_Features_Can_I_Get_with_a_URL_Shortener\" >What Other Features Can I Get with a URL Shortener?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#What_Does_URL_Stand_for\" >What Does URL Stand for?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/how-to-shorten-urls\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Read this post for step-by-step instructions on <strong>how to shorten URLs <\/strong>to create <strong>generic <\/strong>or <strong>branded URLs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important so you can create <strong>shortened links<\/strong> for your branded content on the fly.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, we\u2019ll discuss the age-old question: do shortened URLs (both generic and branded) hurt your website\u2019s <strong>SEO<\/strong>?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center has-text-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#e2fcff;color:#292d34\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-heading\">Quick Summary<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-css-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>In this post, we will shed light upon:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>What URL shorteners are and how they work?<\/li><li>How to create shortened links fast with <a href=\"http:\/\/pixelfy.me\">Pixelfy<\/a>?<\/li><li>How to use Pixelfy\u2019s Chrome extension to shorten URLs?<\/li><li>Custom URL shorteners and why they\u2019re important for brand-building<\/li><li>How to create custom shortened URLs with Pixelfy?<\/li><li>Does URL shortening hurt SEO?&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>And much more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>So without further ado, let\u2019s get into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_URL_Shorteners_and_How_Do_They_Work\"><\/span>What are URL Shorteners, and How Do They Work?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To start off, <strong>URL shorteners <\/strong>are tools that, in essence, provide you with a much shorter and neater-looking link that you can use instead of the original long one. It provides you with a URL that is much easier to type and also easier to remember.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center has-text-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#e2ffee;color:#292d34\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong><em>Shortened links <\/em><\/strong><em>are essentially 301 redirect links that also point to the same page that the original, long URL points to.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Since both links lead to the same web page, you can use the shorter link since it looks better, is more memorable and takes up less space.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If you really think about it, URL shorteners are fairly simple tools. They simply set up a redirect link that goes to the URL you provided.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, while URL shorteners may be simple, shortened links and their uses are not. There are many ways to use URL shortened links and if you want to use them for marketing, there are a number of aspects you must be aware of.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Use_Pixelfys_Fast_Shortener_Tool_to_Create_Shortened_Links_Step-by-Step_Guide\"><\/span>How to Use Pixelfy\u2019s Fast Shortener Tool to Create Shortened Links? (Step-by-Step Guide)&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In this section, we\u2019ll discuss the steps you must take to quickly generate a shortened link.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note that this link is not customizable and is considered a generic shortened link. <strong>You must be registered and logged in to Pixelfy to use its tools and features.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To use Pixelfy\u2019s Fast Shortener tool, simply follow the instructions below:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/image.png\" alt=\"push marketing strategy product exposure company advertises wide reaching ads showrooms point\" class=\"wp-image-652\" width=\"234\" height=\"234\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/image.png 935w, https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/image-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/image-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/image-768x768.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 234px) 100vw, 234px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background\" href=\"http:\/\/pixelfy.me\" style=\"border-radius:4px;background-color:#f775ea\">SIGN UP FOR A FREE TRIAL<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Step 1: <\/em><\/strong><em>After logging in, you\u2019ll see the dashboard page. This page is your main hub within Pixelfy and it provides you with access to all the different features that Pixelfy has to offer.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>From the dashboard page, if you look at the top, you\u2019ll see an input bar that says \u201cFast shortener\u201d inside of it. This is your input bar for the long URL that you may want to input to use the tool.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/ZWqCiJY1L0KhCYJvJWIDMckWlS5b1jeinuoorV22CLY68k4W-IHZ549EU6gUiNcRNwlQjCDEe5N6pgaWtyeAS63efaQL5DqYeitK-Vqm_0I0T_uhcmlmjjC2LW9kQV8pd_S32JRvbEojvOzLGTJuQ8k6z030vxFf75aHNUcNpTbeyaO-HyVCZRj5rw\" alt=\"how to shorten urls\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Step 2: <\/em><\/strong><em>To start using the tool, simply copy the long URL you wish to shorten and paste it into the Fast shortener bar. After you paste it, the page should start to load automatically and you should get directed to the next page.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>If you don\u2019t get directed to the next page, then you can click on the \u201cShorten\u201d button to go there manually.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/Qp0mImd7XVDNFUOmlvoNPV5UhrNW6iQsrovTi1Q8RpTJZ5SPd9ZaiXLkgHmsr6TI9WCsSEj_sLXC7JPfMUeH0mzY4crcb0Zc1GAx3zsCnGuBX42s-d7QEvDNT49tlENADaAvPCujM2ftcX0MXs-oDXBMAeYdtOoGa22_YTyqaxzI1C-jjK1wL7H0YA\" alt=\"url \"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Step 3: <\/em><\/strong><em>On the next page, you will get the shortened generic URL that you can use anywhere you want. However, we do recommend that you don\u2019t use generic URLs for branding purposes. That\u2019s where you want to use <\/em><strong><em>custom shortened links.&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>We\u2019ll discuss custom shortened links and why they\u2019re important for your brand in a later section.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Lastly, it\u2019s important to note that Pixelfy automatically generates a QR code for the shortened link as well. This can be easily downloaded and used as well.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/adVYb67EDg7AcaOa8Pdw6gL47P5d72qxV5JZpF2EtVheY8cZzM4IzFutN2sVXOJOpFLh5lRd_saToOERqRhdTsmbsUc8f7mB2TcC2ZLfFkZjLNZPsueeOcXNiL4RrfLl3pYjpsIidfkX3YUec6AozvLk3dqgJfbHq-pGg_uBEYYITjgS8qHq84caSg\" alt=\"shortened url\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Use_Pixelfys_Chrome_Extension_to_Shorten_URLs_Step-by-Step_Guide\"><\/span>How to Use Pixelfy\u2019s Chrome Extension to Shorten URLs? (Step-by-Step Guide)&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Needless to say that you need to have Google Chrome installed and running before you can use this process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After that, navigate to the <a href=\"https:\/\/chrome.google.com\/webstore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chrome Web Store<\/a> and download our <a href=\"https:\/\/chrome.google.com\/webstore\/detail\/pixelfy-link-shortener-cu\/ebejepmaahpghmckjcggphkegcpekgcp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pixelfy Chrome Extension<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/Wudt6GuYpvv4_vtNstt5uDHrt6-snM849JwG7RvNU-8B3NgW4bQ0kHOZWQ8KCqBmlq9aB4sn0CtHesMSfjo-sLhbCHhR1sByE5PGG9F6wXvDSz2-mE_sQmgMGOvhKkkRJ87ADuviK-fz9_HPudlZ6GUtU761hhPBpLgwTEviKTFz0VBtEzC9Kdyz-A\" alt=\"add to chrome\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1: <\/strong>Once it\u2019s installed, make sure that the extension is enabled. You can check if it\u2019s enabled by checking if it appears on the right-hand side next to your address bar or not.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it does not show up, that means it\u2019s not enabled. You can easily enable it by going to the Extensions menu by typing \u201cchrome:\/\/extensions\u201d in the address bar and pressing Enter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/H8kCw5_Fo3gTA6tYRFzwGAIDxS8Ew1nwV7yIOtqSBEDdZH_6Ya0GhXzLQwpFLcVYidgLd_FHbWBvIhzHwN3hPTAdfKEuGeR4VdGDdB9Yi_i7EcW7PZ3pEeUf5dUMcDaYW0wGCZKMQ_n3n2wdDWRsF-lizYEdwRyiA6KePNY49uSI-I-8tZrnuUrkGQ\" alt=\"google\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: <\/strong>Next, navigate to the long URL that you want to shorten with the Pixelfy Chrome extension.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3: <\/strong>When you\u2019re at the page, click on the Chrome extension, you\u2019ll see a drop-down menu.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/5ZWvU-Hvt0iloNeAOeju1VDgBm2NeR1Ds-CtJVm6rs5RL4Btq6erJZe518xBUEHkcOw9HucFO7aGnda3J0TM81SzSmbdE0WYuXdWHj1VwKFjKJUtATq84N7M0YED4JdGBOLjiilyIebDx72InwWezCxBl8d6MrrRJHJD6mGabOiT0ZuieTVdSkdmMA\" alt=\"settings\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4: <\/strong>Go ahead and check out the settings. Tinker with them until you\u2019re satisfied with what you have. Once you\u2019re done, click on the \u201cShorten\u201d button.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Custom_URL_Shorteners_and_Brands\"><\/span>Custom URL Shorteners and Brands<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So far, we have talked about quick and easy solutions to URL shortening.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, when you\u2019re shortening URLs to be used in branded content, there\u2019s nothing quick and easy about it. In fact, most of your URL shortening has to be done with slow and meticulous planning.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, because custom URL shorteners help brands engage in a much more effective way with an audience. How a brand chooses to use URL shorteners can determine what type of growth it sees in the next few months (or lack thereof).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center has-text-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#e2ffee;color:#292d34\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong><em>Custom URL shorteners <\/em><\/strong><em>or <\/em><strong><em>branded URL shorteners <\/em><\/strong><em>allow you to customize the shortened URL that is generated.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>You can change the domain and also the latter part of the link. Naturally, to change the domain, you need to have a custom domain already registered that you can connect to the URL shortener service.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Hence, brands set up custom domains that are meant to represent them. The custom domain could be the brand name, some type of slogan or an abbreviation of some sort. In any case, it must uniquely identify your brand.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As for the second part, you can choose to edit it to include whatever you want. Typically, brands use it to denote whatever the web page is about. This <strong>instills trust <\/strong>in the consumer as they\u2019ll know exactly who the link is from and where it will lead.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Branded links <\/em><\/strong><em>are super important because they help ensure brand cohesion and consistent brand identity.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You want your customer to always be thinking about your brand when they are reading your content. Hence, if they come across a shortened URL that bears the name of some other generic URL shortener service, it will throw them off.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It will dilute your brand image and thus, you\u2019ll hurt your chances of your brand staying fresh in viewers\u2019 minds.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, if the shortened link contains your brand name or some abbreviation of it, the message will remain consistent. Thus, your brand identity will be cemented into the user\u2019s mind.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can later serve <strong>retargeted ads <\/strong>to such a user. We all know that users are much more likely to respond to ads if they remember a brand from somewhere before, right?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Create_Custom_URLs_with_Pixelfys_Any_URL_Shortener_Step-by-Step_Guide\"><\/span>How to Create Custom URLs with Pixelfy\u2019s Any URL Shortener? (Step-by-Step Guide)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Naturally, Pixelfy allows you to create custom URLs with ease too.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to note that just like with any other URL shortener, you must first <strong>connect your custom domain <\/strong>to Pixelfy. This is important because only then will that custom domain be used to generate shortened URLs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Connect_a_Custom_Domain_with_Pixelfy\"><\/span>Connect a Custom Domain with Pixelfy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To connect a custom domain with Pixelfy, follow these steps:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1: <\/strong>Look at the left-hand side toolbar on the dashboard page and click on \u201cCustom domains\u201d.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/vmmY49_Sh1rthEUpClTcDVUi6FEEZYAk0mOfdsR45ETHY0MrMacZbV40lA-3dJ_JfCCWL6uN2PpSPgq2D2gOgpa1cCEU0IsK40tehXst0oPTuTLRdijD4ItnrGfRgx3Gvy24A2jJtWbuY2ujlw0Eg_PiI7pKJxuO5yS4CcIJPW0rUAYkz9vXOY-UdA\" alt=\"custom domains\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: <\/strong>You\u2019ll be given a brief introduction after which you\u2019ll be asked to input the domain name. Enter the custom domain that you have set up. Again, you must first set it up with a domain name registrar and make it live using a web hosting service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/J5knaO7s-v3mYyZCbEDQIcxsqy8NfoGRUzyz3qZIbt779HZFcRG_FlmOxtnGcQJBb21iGuPqTklBw1YdAABez7K80kENNyRaMtjqAu3RD6PL84SX4ZpMhcON7vM9Z6jByxd_ykQgiKPQd275Wj7v2NOVmFzGi1Vgu-sDBDtsGwyaSGs5jWChmo_Hmw\" alt=\"enter domain\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4: <\/strong>After you enter the custom domain, you\u2019ll receive a prompt that asks you if there is any published content on the domain or not.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Please note <\/strong>that you cannot use a domain if it has published content on it. In that case, you\u2019ll have to use a <strong>subdomain.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/PC7wskptpJRSjeelZ8yeMqIBVi7RMub2FBC2c56tzrDm_FB-VFFY_fBss2gBtXtqNsmDISZ-2I_OUOwwlXN1S8BUJ141NkBKNiKAWXApiJDH7XyGqSqlvWc2QYeWWRFME8L69iEZTgoFTTbNlt-MHlCWVH_d_HZ-Y85Xt-vp0Xx_Q-SgqqrNWxvYWw\" alt=\"connect\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5: <\/strong>If you don\u2019t have any published content on your domain, select \u201cNo\u201d and click on \u201cNext\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/DKwhWwEawIxGF6xQuTfCRZzjHTF7asrPmSI8vjcL3Kb0Ida7lknlKUCRCJ-2Lbh64_E6X3lyfdMot3bGK02DJLhQidRd3N_K9CEcx07iccBox19hLnA-pQLlaR9PfkhguSQCt9UGCGn2pmzCT-Vk64M4Mp4EQwshgjQXHY68wena6pOorwF99rYOFg\" alt=\"warning\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 6: <\/strong>Click on \u201cAdd domain\u201d and now, your custom domain will be connected to your Pixelfy. When you go to the Any URL Shortener, this domain will be available to be used as a custom domain for branded links.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/egGeqiYfWwZ2rH3jUVVYH5x3kIg_OURGKIZoQxuXf3Shwo_6V1uKRhL63bedoyhFgA2C3B8hsMsewjt3oysSRXRYocrxgfwHZP-BOYvi2AXxKWfQOWYt1CrNV6HDhUBCV6eFKg891_V__rDHQSO8W4rfjtsZdOB9fWrqYGPw-3_U0xPa9wdVIxnoxQ\" alt=\"connect your sub domain\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 7: <\/strong>If you\u2019ve already published content, you\u2019ll receive a warning message that\u2019ll state that you cannot use the domain since it\u2019ll make your existing content inaccessible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this case, you must opt for a <strong>subdomain.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/6yY0uJn99T7I6HGe4wiDJkgLNbJG35PnNN0-OFKLaeWFbt2HICcmP_EkzxhfEjdo7GCc4uKX8ATORmS_cZwPmuw_gR0Wse4RcK2_Uo02v3LAtgjyTcq-MsOJ_eTu7RyCmsJjXK7vMcg9NJ8epdspFpTGftwaj_ekdnJS_BL3MTDy0Z0Z0Dy54yVigQ\" alt=\"warning\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 8: <\/strong>Select \u201cUse subdomain\u201d and input the subdomain name accordingly. Click on \u201cNext\u201d and you\u2019ll be good to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/1CZ1sfx1H8u-NPUkU9Fh0nJimJHqgCGkaJsz90EkL4QooIfJakYufXCQsXZVJPcHcfyqokkPMgofTLWM12hnE-n4QIHEEZVcz9-ySmNfW96g58vszW5PGR2lChyIJLF4HAsZamRdq_otQLmLtgP9G3k9-bBy9e9eZS-WOiUORJKamv8IYvW3aXa73Q\" alt=\"use subdomain\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In either case, you\u2019ll have a domain or subdomain that can be utilized now to create branded links.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To create branded links, you must use the Any URL Shortener tool of Pixelfy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_a_Custom_Shortened_URL_with_Pixelfy\"><\/span>Create a Custom Shortened URL with Pixelfy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>To create a custom shortened URL with Pixelfy, follow the instructions provided below:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1: <\/strong>Look at the left-hand side toolbar on the dashboard page and click on \u201cAll tools\u201d.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/969g_TiPjCjErFn1Nffb0rYRII__oI6z_NOuZhSZgJzyFp4czPqGn4LpeDowslff6qr284U1XMFdsxhh8Plto-MQMkUjInKjceEV20k2p85pjOrRwGUzIXpyHEjUpY0_x9tgzXvU50isvvIyMey9R0lCVtjixWwCAqf-cuQBpXIrRP_XAR-6sD1Y2Q\" alt=\"tools\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: <\/strong>Go to the <a href=\"https:\/\/app.pixelfy.me\/tracking-links\/any-url\">Any URL Shortener<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/G7xCh_2vBbpNVTV3VB0jH2nTnq6jSVpM5j0Zv8gkLBTyZeng8XyV9L4z8CvlfHHnO-hyoOvSSGeVb_R9U5GjjeWuZlrUKftWciIECnPd3vY50II9lEh7L6fGtGd8iglNBiY3fK7bKOKaFCM4vEK55BfxPSiLGr_8-ZA7NzuvvLVTR9_2WCMQh8okOQ\" alt=\"url shortener\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3: <\/strong>After you go to the Any URL Shortener page, you\u2019ll be asked to enter a destination URL and a title for the shortened link.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can add a unique title to help distinguish the shortened link from any other links that you shrink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/sF7qnXCiCplfBnrkRuSQBdB1-KYQS9aZtbpNWL6Z5wlOTfKkmoMNSCJpgN710feVzbpXvuHoAFlyoIYaLm2msERs-xlVRw8gix20QEsAeFQ_4vUJN_u2XhNkfHQwtAUAuRRo7x2aj7tCLCw6hYhiFRWH1eIr7FxyX8hLEs_2mC6V8FWLVWCVcGyhnA\" alt=\"destination url\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also utilize <strong>link tags <\/strong>to categorize and sort shortened links. They can be ordered in terms of purpose, campaign, marketing strategy, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/x-8iRc5b9cdV9nKJPC1Lhw7CxVfsro9lpVMfyCqsUNQV_u1Q2NnounYMXNWM4G63uIk6NSbHJ5zAkjrITWvpxe4deiGSGgWqNvWxk85eRCd7_asg-6y7lLRwQOZTgpf1SPxJA3y7NSfpeajPBNwMkyJ9inxQOlR6xkObH4MCFer6Jczt_DkkKvXe7Q\" alt=\"tags\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4: <\/strong>To turn the currently generic shortened URL into a custom one, you must go to \u201cAdvanced options\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/rxaP4xiu9PbSeWHP8iaYXVhO2RpX2giFSKZvVxE3u58tb2DcsNsn9eb6AZwSJ2pLjzNDck-aWcQHe2OaZJV_dmD1fL0udFZALkKGW8VshYBXdMD7cOXMsQEfLKV_mBr-uYhlUWJUoMQqu-t6Em-P1Bdl4GCQZdZR4Vfyvy0o1NGV3psHX2c0tpFWsQ\" alt=\"show options\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5: <\/strong>You\u2019ll get a drop-down list that\u2019ll display the name of your custom domain or subdomain. This is only if you\u2019ve connected them properly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t see your custom domain or subdomain here, check out the process we described above and try it again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/fc7AjUuS8PTaV55Mfdg30qSVQqImglammb8BMS88FMNYSDu0kDcgPqXIzc8LXdhmOXSBRiWun7ieCllMHARDHYRGtdtKsOjs9yJ5T82MK_txWSKDbkGTeVPHnNdQCyaOMGtM1JwjRB5V57AOCaVpylmZhHbxsrldIMB6lAUs-YlN7k4NcJbypMo_5g\" alt=\"select domain\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 6: <\/strong>Once you select the custom domain or subdomain, the shortened link will turn into it. You are also free to edit the latter part of the link in whatever way you want.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/vDeXWt507QdvW-BkUPtBMOfuCL19qdIC2X2mVds4InQJ2zmv7o2QxAqDFiYUEHn_gsoYYq3mNacvycWhVrG2R-dH8fxlZn1-jaUySqk_VeFF8h05fBzRtJ1dyki9tXvkU66yS6oJR13AWZKKbmVUt-VIVNonH_bYVPls-gpq21c8QZc0LVgedG2tjw\" alt=\"domain slug\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 7: <\/strong>The Any URL Shortener provides many other customization options and settings that you can tinker with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Go ahead and ensure that you\u2019re satisfied with all the settings and once you are, you can click on \u201cGenerate\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/_ViONcqQh3CuHOoHceTXGz18vMzFg6hdy1T-vSgDvo0fhCKe2xkaHa9pei19Vkc7E1wBlD8WvpPUOMUjvfu1DOtJ8DRBPmZGopw-bDrtow4b8p5ltOJA5xvMRhI9EqgtMpL94DXQUFG-sR5dVrWQO9hQjNw1bmXEnFpIWU0urLz7SIhNsoOobCphvg\" alt=\"url shortener\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This will generate your particular branded link that you can use for advertising and marketing purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_URL_Shorteners_Hurt_SEO\"><\/span>Do URL Shorteners Hurt SEO?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It has been long debated whether or not URL shorteners hurt the SEO of websites.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The original proponents for the argument were individuals who felt that the redirection nature of shortened URLs meant they were bad for SEO. This is because a search engine may not open it up and consider it when it\u2019s determining your page ranking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>However, this has since been proven to be a myth by Google itself as well as SEO experts like <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=QMkltd6dZzU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Matt Cutts<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Experts like Matt Cutts have gone on record to say that Google will consider the contents of a shortened URL. It will also include its contents to determine a certain website\u2019s official page ranking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thus, you can rest assured that URL shorteners do not hurt SEO in the slightest.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Use_URL_Shorteners\"><\/span>Why Use URL Shorteners?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>URL shorteners can be used in a number of ways. If you use it personally, it can help you remember URLs better and it also looks neat. Furthermore, it\u2019s easy to type as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want it for commercial use, it\u2019s even better since shorter links are retained much better in your target audience\u2019s minds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_I_Use_a_Custom_URL_Shortener_and_Not_a_Generic_One\"><\/span>Why Should I Use a Custom URL Shortener and Not a Generic One?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you intend to grow your brand, you want it to be only your brand throughout your messaging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the name of a URL shortener tool such as <a href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bitly<\/a> or <a href=\"http:\/\/tinyurl.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TinyURL<\/a> is somewhere in the mix, it ruins your brand messaging and confuses the consumer. Thus, using generic URL shorteners can lead to you losing potential customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_Get_a_Free_Custom_URL_Shortener\"><\/span>Can I Get a Free Custom URL Shortener?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, there are many free custom URL shorteners that you can use to generate branded links.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just make sure that all its other features are satisfactory for you to use as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Other_Features_Can_I_Get_with_a_URL_Shortener\"><\/span>What Other Features Can I Get with a URL Shortener?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a number of things that you can get when you opt for a more sophisticated URL shortener.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some common features that you can find in most URL shorteners include:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Link tracking and report generation&nbsp;<\/li><li>Link retargeting&nbsp;<\/li><li>Link rotation&nbsp;<\/li><li>Custom URLs&nbsp;<\/li><li>Link swapping<\/li><li>Automatic QR code generation&nbsp;<\/li><li>Geolocator tags<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>And much more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_URL_Stand_for\"><\/span>What Does URL Stand for?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>URL stands for <strong>Uniform Resource Locator.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a number of ways to shorten URLs online.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you must understand why you\u2019re shortening them in the first place if you want to see any growth happen because of them. Make sure that you share them efficiently and in a way that makes them stick in the user&#8217;s mind.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only then will they be back for a visit, and only then can you convince them to make a purchase from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any questions, feel free to reach out in the comments below. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this post, we have provided three different ways on how to shorten URLs through Pixelfy. It&#8217;s a versatile tool you can use for generic or branded links. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":2307,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[707,708],"tags":[734,735,736,737,738,739],"class_list":["post-2306","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-url-shortener","category-guide","tag-what-are-url-shorteners-and-how-do-they-work","tag-how-to-use-pixelfys-fast-shortener-tool-to-create-shortened-links","tag-pixelfys-chrome-extension","tag-custom-url-shorteners-and-brands","tag-create-custom-urls-with-pixelfys-any-url-shortener","tag-do-url-shorteners-hurt-seo"],"acf":[],"post_mailing_queue_ids":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2306","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2306"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2306\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2328,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2306\/revisions\/2328"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2307"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2306"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2306"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pixelfy.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2306"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}