Broken links are text hyperlinks that typically links to another online document, such as a webpage, PDF file, video, Excel spreadsheet, etc. which when clicked doesn't lead to the correct destination.
Broken links can include clickable image links and links to images.
DEFINITION Link Rot and Linkrot are used interchangeably
What is Link Rot?
Link Rot is the process by which links on a website become irrelevant as webpages and files being linked to disappear, change content, or redirect to a new location.
How often should I check for broken links?
Probably every day in an ideal world. But that would take up too much time. I would suggest you check for broken links at least once a month
What are the most popular broken links testing software?
My favorite tool for finding broken links is Xenu's Link Sleuth, which runs on Windows PC and is 100% free. Link verification is carried out on normal links, images, frames, plug-ins, backgrounds, local image maps, style sheets, scripts and Java applets. It displays a continuously updated list of URLs which you can sort by different criteria.
Additional features include:
Can re-check broken links (useful for temporary network errors)
Supports SSL websites - https://
Detects and reports redirected URLs
Creates site maps
Reports can be emailed
Partial testing of FTP and gopher sites
If you would like to recommend similar broken link checkers, which is also free, especially one for Mac users, please post it below.
Text Links Guide written by Michael Wong. I hope you found it useful.