The href tag specifies the target of an hyperlink in tagging <a>. It indicates the address of the target of the link, which is a webpage, a section or a file or an e-mail address. The basics of the href syntax are essential in the nurturing of operational links (href="url"). There are the basic best practices of using href attributes which you should know and apply. To have effective linking, these practices have to be observed. This tutorial explains what is an href link, and what are the best practices that are vital to use.

What Exactly Is Href?

In HTML, the href attribute (Hypertext Reference) specifies the path to be reached by a hyperlink inside an HTML anchor ( It tells the URL that is directed when the link is clicked. This address could be an absolute URL linking to a different web site, a relative URL within the site, a section name within a document or a protocol such as mailto:. The href attribute is also non-optional, in case it is not provided, the <a> tag is not a navigable link. The proper usage of this is the key to web navigation and resource linking and this directly determines the destination of these users.

Always Make Links Clear

Descriptive anchor text to be used whenever making links. Avoid some generalized phrases such as click here or read more. Rather, make the destination of the link or action that will take place explicit or clear, e.g., either Download the User Guide or View Pricing Details. Clear link text is required to be accessible, user-friendly, and have good SEO. It enables every user, including those that use screen readers, to understand why this link was created without any context. Unclear connections only make confusion, plain links make usability and confidence. Do this as a habit.

Security: Use rel="noopener"

The rel="noopener" is a security necessity of href links that open to a new page (in a new tab or window) using target="_blank". By leaving it unincluded one can enable partial access of the newly opened page to the source page through API window.opener. Mal discriminating sites may use this access to redirect the initial page into phishing sites (tabnabbing) or to carry out undesirable activities. By inserting rel="noopener", this connection is cut short and the new tab will be non-interdependent and cannot get the context of the initial page. Apply this characteristic on every external target="_blank" links to reduce this security threat.

Accessible Links Help Everyone

Availability of href links results in usability by all users including the ones that use assistive technologies. Best practices include: Use descriptive, java-script-independent link text that explicitly indicates its destination (e.g. Accessibility Guidelines, not click here). Make sure that there is a strong visual difference by using color and making underlines with good contrast. Ensure that the keyboard can use the entire keyboard to navigate and activate. Use ARIA attributes such as aria-label where they will enable the creation of unambiguous links, such as icon only links. These practices provide links that can be seen, interpreted and made to work everywhere.

Never Say "Click Here"

Do not use Click Here as the link text. This expression does not indicate where or why the connection should go. It makes its users and particularly those who use screen readers to guess the context. Even sighted users who scan through contents lose efficiency. Useful, instead, is descriptive link text that is part of your sentence. It is obvious to tell the targeted content or action (e.g. "download the report," "contact support"). Descriptive links afford necessary surroundings to every different user and enhance access.

Conclusion

The href attribute defines the destination URL for hyperlinks and is essential for web navigation. Adherence to best practices is mandatory. Ensure absolute URL accuracy to prevent broken links. Use descriptive, contextually relevant anchor text. Maintain valid syntax consistently. Prioritize accessibility by providing meaningful link context for assistive technologies. Implement semantic HTML structure correctly. Verify mobile responsiveness for all links. Employ strategic internal linking to enhance site structure and navigation. Correct href implementation is fundamental for a functional, accessible, and professional website.