Linky

A minimalist URL shortening app.

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Features

• Custom short URLs for memorable links.
• Duplicate prevention, ensuring identical URLs always generate the same short code.
• Automatic dark and light theme based on the user's system preferences.
• Fully responsive interface for all devices.
• SQLite database for lightweight and reliable storage.
• Express.js backend with efficient request routing.

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Requirements

• Node.js
• npm

Tip

Using the latest LTS version of Node.js is recommended for the best compatibility and performance.

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Quick Start

Clone the repository:

git clone https://github.com/goncalopolido/linky

Navigate to the project directory and install the dependencies:

cd linky
npm install

Start the application:

npm start

Important

Ensure all dependencies have been installed successfully before starting the server. Otherwise, the application will fail to launch.

Once the server is running, Linky will be available at:

http://localhost:3000

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Live Demo

Warning

The public demo has been disabled due to repeated abuse. Even with all shortened URLs automatically expiring every 10 minutes, the service continued to be misused.

linky.polido.pt

There are currently no plans to bring it back. If a more suitable solution is implemented in the future, the demo may return.

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Technical Details

Linky uses:

• Express.js for the backend server.
• better-sqlite3 for SQLite database operations.
• CSS for styling without external frameworks.
• JavaScript for frontend functionality.

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Notes

Tip

If you are self-hosting Linky, you can modify or completely disable the URL expiration policy to better suit your own deployment.

Warning

If the SQLite database is deleted or becomes corrupted, all existing shortened URLs will be permanently lost unless regular backups are maintained.