System Design – URL Shortener

In an era where brevity is valued and attention spans are fleeting, the quest for efficiency in digital communication has never been more crucial. URL shorteners have emerged as a vital tool in this landscape, offering a convenient solution to the age-old problem of unwieldy web addresses. But what goes into designing a URL shortener? Is it merely about creating a shorter link, or does it involve a more intricate interplay of technology, user experience, and ethical considerations?

The design of a URL shortener may seem straightforward at first glance, but beneath its seemingly simple facade lies a lot of complexities waiting to be unraveled. From choosing the right algorithms to ensure link uniqueness and stability, to crafting user interfaces that are intuitive and accessible, designing a URL shortener demands a multifaceted approach.

This chapter aims to delve deep into the intricacies of designing URL shorteners, understanding the functional...