Create a Functional URL Shortener Web App

A URL shortener teaches concepts like handling user input, generating unique identifiers, storing and mapping data, and implementing redirect logic. It’s a great full-stack project that mirrors real-world tools like Bitly or TinyURL.

Focus on creating clean input forms, unique code generation, and efficient link storage and redirection workflows. Optionally add analytics like click tracking.

Users submit long URLs via a form. The app generates a unique short code, stores the mapping, and provides a short link. Visiting the short link redirects users to the original URL instantly.

• User pastes a long URL and submits the form.
• A random short code (e.g., 5–7 characters) is generated.
• The short code is stored and mapped to the original URL in memory or database.
• When someone visits the short URL, a redirect occurs to the original link.
• Optional: Track the number of clicks per shortened URL.

• Build a URL Shortener in Node.js
• Generate Random Strings in JavaScript
• Express Redirect Documentation
• Deploying Backend with Render
• MongoDB Atlas Setup