URL Target Best Practices For Better Link Management

Which links should open in a new tab?

Clicking a link should feel smooth and predictable. However, sometimes, a link opens in the same tab, and other times, it pops up in a new one. This happens because of the URL target attribute in HTML.

Knowing how it works helps create a better user experience. It also improves security.

This blog explains the different target values and the best ways to use them.

Understanding the target Attribute

The target attribute specifies where to open the linked document. It can be applied to <a>, <form>, and <base> elements. The attribute accepts several values, each dictating different behaviors.

Common Values of the target Attribute

• _self: Opens the linked document in the same browsing context (default behavior).

• _blank: Opens the linked document in a new browsing context, typically a new tab or window.

• _parent: Opens the linked document in the parent browsing context of the current frame.

• _top: Opens the linked document in the full body of the window, removing any frames.

Example Usage

1<a href="https://example.com" target="_blank">Visit Example</a>

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In this example, clicking the link will open the destination in a new tab or window.

The _blank Target: Benefits and Considerations

Using target="_blank" instructs the browser to open the link in a new tab or window. While this can enhance the user experience by keeping the current page accessible, it also introduces potential security concerns.

Security Implications

Opening links in a new browsing context can expose your site to security issues, such as the linked document gaining partial access to the original page via the window.opener property. To mitigate this, include the rel="noopener noreferrer" attribute:

1<a href="https://example.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit Example</a>

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This addition prevents the new page from accessing the window.opener property, enhancing security.

Best Practices for Using the target Attribute

1. Assess User Intent: Determine whether opening a link in the same tab or a new tab aligns with user expectations. For external links, opening in a new tab can be beneficial.

2. Enhance Security: Always pair target="_blank" with rel="noopener noreferrer" to prevent potential security vulnerabilities.

3. Maintain Consistency: Use the target attribute consistently across your site to provide a predictable user experience.

4. Consider Accessibility: Inform users when a link will open in a new tab or window to avoid confusion, especially for those using screen readers.

Advanced Usage: Named Browsing Contexts

Beyond the predefined _blank, _self, _parent, and _top values, the target attribute can accept custom names corresponding to specific browsing contexts (windows or frames). This allows for more controlled link behavior.

Example: Opening Links in a Named Frame

1<iframe name="contentFrame" src="about:blank"></iframe>
2
3<a href="https://example.com" target="contentFrame">Load Example in Frame</a>

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In this scenario, clicking the link loads the destination URL within the specified iframe named contentFrame.

Final Thoughts!

Managing the URL Target effectively enhances user experience, security, and navigation. Understanding the target attribute and its values helps determine whether to open links in the same tab, a new window, or a new browser tab. Implementing security best practices, such as using rel="noopener noreferrer", minimizes risks associated with target="_blank".

Applying these strategies ensures consistent link behavior and improves accessibility. Exploring browsing context options, including named frames, adds flexibility for advanced use cases. Optimizing external links and internal navigation leads to a more intuitive and secure site structure.

Experiment with different target values, refine the linking strategy, and stay informed about browser support updates to maintain a seamless experience.

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