Glossary · Hosting and delivery
URL
An address that identifies a resource by scheme, host, path, and optional query or fragment information.
Also called: URLs
Definition
A URL identifies where and how to request a resource. In `https://example.com/services/?source=map#pricing`, HTTPS is the scheme, example.com is the host, `/services/` is the path, `source=map` is a query, and `pricing` is a fragment.
Why it matters
URL changes affect bookmarks, links, analytics, redirects, and search history. A redesign needs a URL inventory before launch.
Common misunderstanding
A domain is only one part of a URL; changing page paths can cause loss even when the domain stays the same.
Related terms
Related system family: Hosting & Release
Sources
- How the web works (opens in a new tab) · MDN Web Docs
Last reviewed July 16, 2026