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URL rewriting is the process of modifying Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) for various purposes. The URL as a “web address” is a string that, when entered into the browser bar field, directs the browser to move to a given site and page. Changing the URL can help with user access and site visibility; it can also be used by hackers to redirect users without their knowledge or “trap” them in a certain site.
URL rewriting is also known as URL manipulation.
Techopedia Explains URL Rewriting
URL rewriting can be done through coding with various tools, or with a “rewrite engine” that automates the process. Webmasters may want to rewrite a URL for readability, to make it easier for users to type into the URL bar, or for various other types of advertising or visibility benefits.
In hacking, URL rewriting can automatically redirect user traffic, or spoof legitimate sites. The results of this kind of malicious URL rewriting can be frustrating as users find themselves shunted around to pages or sites that they do not intend to visit. In general, URL rewriting is a part of the conventional protocol for the internet that works and directs traffic on the basis of URLs.
