> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://quicly.gitbook.io/help/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://quicly.gitbook.io/help/shortening-urls/short-urls-101.md).

# Short urls - 101

 In this section, we’ll break down the key components of a short link, so you know exactly what each part does and how you can utilise them to your advantage.

## <mark style="color:purple;">**1. Domain**</mark>

* **Description**: The domain is the part of the URL that precedes the short alias. It’s the web address of the URL shortening service.
* **Example**: In the short link `http://quic.ly/dCXdr1`, `quic.ly` is the domain.
* quic.ly helps to create a shortened url like the one below

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/Ms5VfRPN5qGwtFzzEA88" alt=""><figcaption><p>img 1 - A long url typical of a website</p></figcaption></figure></div>

## <mark style="color:purple;">**2. Alias**</mark>

* **Shortened url:** quic.ly converts the long url to a shortened url as shown in image 2.
* **Description**: The alias is the unique identifier that follows the domain in a shortened URL. It’s a randomised string of characters generated by the system.
* **Example**: In `http://quic.ly/dCXdr1`, `dCXdr1` is the alias.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/joYRSManpjMOS8RjSZHk" alt=""><figcaption><p>img 2 - A shortened url with random alias provided by quic.ly</p></figcaption></figure></div>

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/tW0VOBhXzWVIxhUlxWLQ" alt=""><figcaption><p>img 3 - Domain and alias of shortened url</p></figcaption></figure></div>

## <mark style="color:purple;">**3. Custom Alias**</mark>

* **Description**: A custom alias lets users create their own meaningful and memorable short link ending.
* **Example**: Instead of a random string, you can have `http://quic.ly/mycatalog`.
* **How to Use**: During the URL shortening process, choose the option to customize your alias and enter your preferred string.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/0AUF9FRnTrN3Dfn65k1n" alt=""><figcaption><p>img 4 - Shortened url with custom alias</p></figcaption></figure></div>

## <mark style="color:purple;">**4. Custom Domain**</mark>

* **Description**: A custom domain allows users to personalise the domain part of their short links. This feature is usually available for premium users.
* **Example**: Using a custom domain, a short link could look like `http://coach.at/book`.
* **How to Use**: To set up a custom domain, you need to configure the DNS settings of your domain to point to our service

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/Npxg6Ayp4SJfEMFZYkqZ" alt=""><figcaption><p>img 5 - shortened url with custom domain and alias</p></figcaption></figure></div>

By understanding these key components, you can create short links that are not only concise but also branded and memorable, providing a better experience for your audience. Ensure to follow best practices for custom aliases to maintain a professional and consistent branding.