How do I shorten a URL for free?

Shortening a URL for free takes three steps and a few seconds: paste your long web address into the shortener, create the short link, and copy it. A free URL shortener does all the work — it stores the long address, gives you back a short code, and redirects anyone who clicks to the original page. You don’t need to install anything or pay to get started.

How to shorten a URL for free, step by step

1. Copy the long link you want to share — a product page, a document, a sign-up form, anything with a web address.
2. Open a free URL shortener and sign in. A free account saves the link so you can edit and track it later rather than losing it after one use.
3. Paste the long URL into the input box and create the link. The shortener returns a short version in seconds.
4. Copy the short link and share it wherever you need — a post, an email, a message, or a QR code.

That’s the whole process. The short link now redirects to your original page every time someone clicks, and because the shortener does the lookup, you can usually edit the destination later without changing the link you shared.

What a good free plan should include

Not every free shortener gives you the same thing. Before you commit to one, check that it includes the basics that make a link worth keeping:

• Click tracking. You should be able to see how many people clicked, not just create the link blind.
• A QR code. Many free plans include a QR for the same link, which is useful for print and in-person sharing.
• Links that don’t expire. Your short links should keep working for good. A service that expires free links will quietly break anything you’ve already shared.
• A clear path to upgrade. You shouldn’t have to re-create your links when you grow; the good ones let you keep them and add features.

Shortlen’s free plan is live now, so you can start shortening and tracking links without paying. For a full comparison of what free gets you versus paid, see the guide on free vs paid URL shorteners.

When to move up from free

A free plan is the right starting point for individuals and small teams. The usual reasons to move to a paid plan are:

• You want a branded link on your own domain instead of a shared one.
• You’re creating more links, or adding teammates, than the free limits allow.
• You want deeper analytics, smart links by device and country, or link controls like expiry and passwords.

None of that is needed on day one. Start free, learn what you actually use, then upgrade for the one or two features that matter to you. Check the prices when you’re ready to compare.

What to do next

Start with the free plan and shorten your first link in seconds. When you want it on your own domain, read what a branded link is and check the prices to see which plan adds a custom domain.