Help Center

Posting links in a Tweet

All links (URLs) posted in Tweets are shortened using our t.co service. When viewing the Tweet on twitter.com the original URL (or shortened version of the original URL) will be displayed. Below are instructions on how to post a link in a Tweet on the web and on your mobile device.

How to post a link in a Tweet on the web:

  1. Type or paste the URL into the Tweet box on twitter.com.
  2. A URL of any length will be altered to 23 characters, even if the link itself is less than 23 characters long. Your character count will reflect this.
  3. Click the Tweet button to post your Tweet and link.
Note: You cannot opt out of our t.co link shortening service. Why? Learn more here.

How to post a link in a Tweet from your mobile device:

  1. Open your preferred mobile app, or begin a new text message.
  2. Type or paste the URL into your Tweet. Links will be adjusted with Twitter's link shortener wherever you post them. Some clients will adjust your character count as you compose a Tweet; some won't.
  3. Post the Tweet.

A note about URL safety:

  • Some URLs can be harmful. Please be careful when clicking on links that were shortened using an external link shortening service.
  • URLs converted by Twitter's link service are checked against a list of potentially dangerous sites, and when there's a match, users will be warned before they continue.
  • Always check to see what website you're on before giving out your password or downloading any software.
  • Our Safe Tweeting help page has more information on keeping your account secure.

Having trouble?

Check out our Tweet & DM troubleshooting articles for solutions to common problems.