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Asked: 2024-09-22T09:36:25+05:30 In:

How can I make a hyperlink open in a new browser tab or window when clicked? What are the best practices for achieving this in HTML?

Hey everyone!

I’ve been diving into HTML and I stumbled upon something I’m trying to wrap my head around. I want to create hyperlinks on my website that open in a new browser tab or window when clicked. I’ve seen the `target=”_blank”` attribute mentioned a lot, but I’m wondering if there are any best practices or other considerations I should keep in mind when using it?

Is there anything I should know about user experience or accessibility regarding links that open in new tabs? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you might have! Thanks in advance!

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    2 Answers



    1. Hyperlink Best Practices

      Understanding Hyperlinks in HTML

      Hi there!

      It’s great to hear that you’re diving into HTML! You’re right that the target="_blank" attribute is commonly used to open links in a new tab or window. Here’s a simple example of how to use it:

      <a href="https://www.example.com" target="_blank">Visit Example</a>

      Now, while using target="_blank" can be useful, there are a few best practices and considerations you should keep in mind:

      • User Experience: Opening links in a new tab can be surprising for users. It’s often better to let users decide if they want to open a link in a new tab. Consider only using target="_blank" for links that lead to external sites or material that might distract from your main content.
      • Accessibility: Screen readers and keyboard navigation can sometimes get confused by links that open in new tabs. To improve accessibility, consider providing a visual cue (like an icon) or text indicating that the link will open in a new window.
      • Security: When using target="_blank", it’s a good practice to include the attribute rel="noopener noreferrer". This helps prevent security risks by stopping the new page from having access to the original page’s window object. Here’s how to combine them:
        • <a href="https://www.example.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit Example</a>

      In summary, while using target="_blank" can enhance user experience in some cases, it’s important to consider the potential impact on accessibility and security. I hope this helps you in your HTML journey!

      Happy coding!


    2. Using the `target=”_blank”` attribute in your hyperlinks is indeed a common practice to open links in a new tab or window, allowing users to keep their original context while exploring other content. However, it’s important to consider that not all users appreciate this functionality. Some may prefer links to open in the same tab to maintain a straightforward browsing experience. As a best practice, you should always be transparent about when a link will open in a new tab. You can do this by informing users through visual cues (like an icon) or by using phrases like “opens in a new tab” in the link text.

      Moreover, accessibility plays a crucial role in enhancing user experience. Screen readers often announce when a link opens in a new tab, but it’s advisable to test your website with real users to ensure that navigation remains intuitive. Additionally, consider using the `rel=”noopener noreferrer”` attribute alongside `target=”_blank”` to improve security and performance by mitigating potential risks associated with the new tab accessing the originating window. By incorporating these practices, you can create a more user-friendly and accessible experience for your website visitors.

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