A "link check" refers to checking hyperlinks on a web page to ensure that they function correctly and point to valid destinations. Hyperlinks are links that allow you to go from one web page to another or to another resource, such as a document or image. A link check is performed to ensure that all links on a webpage are working properly and providing users with smooth navigation.
Here are some aspects of a link check:
1. **Functional links:** The link check checks whether all hyperlinks on a website function correctly. This means that they guide users to their intended destinations and do not cause error pages or inaccessible pages.
2. **Integrity:** The link check ensures that all internal links (within the same website) and external links (to other websites) are intact. References to pages that no longer exist or have been moved are identified.
3. **Avoiding redirects:** When redirecting, it is checked whether the destination of the redirect is valid. It is important to ensure that redirects do not point to non-existent pages or error pages.
4. **Types of Links:** The link check can also check whether different types of links such as text links, image links or button links are working properly.
5. **Deep Check:** In large websites, in-depth link checks can be carried out to ensure that all levels of navigation are linked correctly.
6. **Periodic Monitoring:** It is advisable to carry out regular link checks as changes to the website or linked resources may occur over time.
Tools and software applications used for website management and quality control often offer link checking functions. These can perform automated checks and provide users with reports of broken or non-functioning links. Link checking is a proven method for ensuring that a website offers a positive user experience and that the information it contains is easily accessible.