Short URL Creator: Clean, Branded Links in Seconds

Introduction

Turn long, messy URLs into clean, memorable short links. Choose Direct for a straight redirect, or Indirect to route visitors through a safe gateway page where you can show your brand name and up to two simple promo blocks (text, link, or image). External links are automatically handled with rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" for safety and compliance.

Shorting

What is the Short URL Creator?

The Short URL Creator is a simple, reliable way to convert long, hard-to-share links into neat short URLs. It’s built for real-world publishing: blog posts, social media, newsletters, and anywhere you want a cleaner, more trustworthy link.

  • Two modes: Direct and Indirect (via a secure gateway page).
  • Brand touch: Optionally show your site or brand name on the gateway.
  • Promos: Add up to two lightweight promo blocks (text, link, or image).
  • Safety by default: External links use rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer".
  • Copy-friendly: One-click copying for your final short link.
  • Reader-friendly: Clean design with accessible labels and clear steps.
Cutting 

How it Works: Direct vs. Indirect

Direct Mode

Generates a short link that immediately redirects to your original destination. Ideal for quick sharing on social media or inside blog posts where you want minimal friction.

As an example of this direct cut, click on the link below:

cood.me/#lmmhux72 

Indirect Mode (Secure Gateway)

Visitors pass through a lightweight gateway page before reaching the final URL. This page can show your brand name and up to two promo blocks (text, link, or image). It’s helpful when you want to:

  • Display a short brand message or attribution.
  • Show a helpful note or image related to the content.
  • Provide a clean, safe step before sending users onward.

Good to know: The gateway page is configured as noindex, nofollow to avoid thin-content indexing and keep your site compliant with AdSense policies. There’s no forced clicks or misleading prompts.

 An example of this indirect cut, try this link below:

cood.me/#hfqt3tx2 

Step-by-Step: Create Your Short Link

  1. Paste your long URL into the input field. Make sure it’s a valid http(s) link.
  2. Choose a mode:
    • Direct: Instant redirect to the original URL.
    • Indirect: Route through the secure gateway (with optional brand name and promos).
  3. (Optional in Indirect) Add your site/brand name. This appears at the top of the gateway page.
  4. (Optional in Indirect) Add up to two promos (choose Text, Link, or Image and provide the value).
  5. Click “Create Secure Short Link”. You’ll get a short URL you can copy with one tap.
  6. Share it in posts, bios, comments, emails, or QR codes.

Example Use Cases

  • Social posts: Replace long tracking URLs with a clean short link.
  • Blog references: Keep article links tidy and consistent.
  • Campaigns: Use Indirect mode to present a brief brand note before redirecting.
  • Downloads: Offer a gentle gateway with context and a helpful image or tip.

Optional Promos on the Gateway

The gateway supports two small promo blocks. Choose one of three types:

  • Text: A short message, tip, or note to set expectations.
  • Link: A standard clickable URL (opened safely with rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer").
  • Image: An image URL (use clear, readable filenames and avoid strange characters in the URL).

Tip: Keep promos brief and relevant. Avoid anything misleading, aggressive, or click-baity to remain compliant with AdSense and maintain user trust.

SEO, UX & AdSense Considerations

  • Gateway page is noindex: It’s intentionally set to noindex, nofollow so it doesn’t clutter search results with low-content pages.
  • External link safety: All external links are automatically assigned rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer".
  • Clear language & accessibility: Labels, legends, and messages are written in plain English and use semantic HTML.
  • No forced clicks: The tool doesn’t encourage or require ad interactions. It keeps a clean, user-first flow consistent with AdSense guidelines.

Best Practices & Tips

  • Keep it human: Use descriptive anchor text around your short links to set clear expectations.
  • Brand for recall: When appropriate, add your brand name to the gateway so users remember you.
  • Use Indirect wisely: Add quick context or a visual when it genuinely helps the user.
  • Stay compliant: Avoid promos that could be seen as misleading, sensitive, or policy-violating.
  • Check URLs: Make sure your long URL is valid http(s) and the image links use clean filenames.

Troubleshooting

The short link didn’t copy to my clipboard.

Click the “Copy” button again. If your browser blocks clipboard access, select the field manually and press Ctrl/⌘ + C.

The gateway image doesn’t show.

Confirm the image URL loads in a normal browser tab. Avoid unusual characters. Use .jpg, .png, or .webp with a readable filename.

Will search engines index the gateway?

No. The gateway is configured as noindex, nofollow to prevent thin pages from being indexed.

FAQ

What’s the difference between Direct and Indirect?

Direct redirects visitors immediately to your long URL. Indirect routes through a small gateway page where you can show a brand line and up to two promos before continuing.

Are external links safe?

Yes. External links are opened with rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" for safety and to prevent tab-nabbing.

Can I use this with social media?

Absolutely. Short links are perfect for platforms with character limits or where long URLs don’t look great.

Is the gateway compliant with AdSense?

Yes, provided you don’t add misleading promos or encourage ad clicks. The gateway is noindex and kept minimal.

Can I add my brand name?

Yes. In Indirect mode, add a short brand or site name. It appears at the top of the gateway page.

What promo types are supported?

Text, Link, or Image. Keep each short and relevant.

Do I need to install anything?

No special installation for the article. The tool’s UI is already embedded on your page with accessible HTML and a small script.

Can I track clicks?

You can measure performance via your analytics on landing pages or by integrating URL analytics if you use a shortener service that supports it.

Can I change the countdown or disable it?

Yes. If your gateway uses a timer, you can adjust or remove it. Keep the user flow simple.

Does this affect my SEO negatively?

No. Gateway pages are noindex, and your main content remains crawlable. Short links help with clarity and user experience.

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