What is a Custom Back-Half?
The readable text after the slash in a short link, set by you instead of generated automatically.
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Quick Answer
The back-half of a short link is everything after the slash. A custom back-half lets you choose that text yourself, so instead of a random code, you get something meaningful like /spring-sale or /event2026. The destination stays the same; the link just becomes readable and memorable.
Full Definition
Every short link has two parts: the domain (before the slash) and the back-half (after it). The back-half is what makes each link unique. By default, a URL shortener generates a random back-half like a string of letters and numbers. A custom back-half is one you choose deliberately, replacing the random string with words that make sense.
The same concept goes by different names depending on context. In URL shortener APIs and dashboards, it is often called the alias. In web development and content management, it is often called the slug. Custom back-half, alias, and slug all refer to the same field.
A custom back-half does not change where the link goes. It only changes how the link looks. The shortener still routes the visitor to the same destination; the URL is just easier to read, type, and remember.
Why It Matters
A custom back-half does three things a random one cannot. It looks more professional in an email, a print ad, or a social post. It is easier for a person to type into a browser if they cannot click it. And it works as a small organizational tool: a marketer running multiple campaigns can name each link after the campaign, making click data easier to read at a glance.
How ShortifyMe Handles It
Custom back-halves are available on every ShortifyMe plan, including the free account. When you create a short link while signed in, the create form has a custom back-half field where you type your chosen text. On a free account, the back-half cannot be changed once the link is created. On paid plans, you can edit the back-half later using the Rename action.
Related Terms
URL Shortener
A tool that turns a long web address into a clean, short, shareable link.
Branded Short Link
A short link built on your own domain so every link reinforces your brand.
Vanity URL
A short, easy-to-remember URL chosen for branding rather than auto-generated.
Alias
Another word for the custom back-half of a short link. Used in URL shortener APIs and dashboards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, on ShortifyMe a custom back-half is available on every plan, including the free account.
On a free account, no. The back-half is set at creation and cannot be edited afterward. On a paid plan, you can change it later.
Letters, numbers, and usually hyphens. Spaces and special characters generally are not allowed. Each back-half must be unique on the domain it uses.
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