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Home / Glossary / URI
Glossary · Protocol

URI

Uniform Resource Identifier

In plain language

A string of text that names a resource on the internet, such as a web page, email address or file.

The metaphor

Like a full postal address: it says what the thing is and where to find it.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Starts with a scheme such as https or mailto.
  • Often includes the site name, a path and extra details.
  • Links, web forms and email links all use it.
  • Scammers hide dangerous addresses behind friendly text.
In practice
  • A mailto link opens a new message to a set address.
  • A shortened link expands to a long address with tracking details.
  • A fake sign-in page uses an address that looks close to the real one.

A question owners ask

Is it the same as a URL?

A URL is the common kind that says where to find the item. Most people just say link.

Related terms
AHAuthentication HeaderARPAddress Resolution ProtocolBGPBorder Gateway ProtocolCCMPCounter Mode/CBC-MAC ProtocolCHAPChallenge Handshake Authentication ProtocolCRCCyclical Redundancy CheckEAPExtensible Authentication ProtocolESPEncapsulated Security Payload

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