/2023/research/paper.pdf (Broken in 2025) CuT Approach: /research/latest/paper.pdf OR /research/url-theory-paper
https://www.example-store.com/products.php?cat=45&item=9823&ref=seasonal_23 CuT URLs
If your technology stack changes (e.g., moving from PHP to Node.js or from Apache to Nginx), a CuT URL structure using a reverse proxy or URL rewriting ensures the user-facing link never changes. The backend can be rewritten entirely, but as long as the CuT endpoint remains, the user never hits a dead end. Creating CuT URLs is not magic; it is a function of your server configuration and CMS settings. Here is how to implement them across different environments. 1. Apache (.htaccess) Mod_Rewrite To turn site.com/page?name=about into site.com/about , use: /2023/research/paper
In the early days of the World Wide Web, URLs were an afterthought. They were long strings of incomprehensible characters, session IDs, and file extensions like .asp?id=238947&session=abc123 . Fast forward to today, and the humble URL has evolved into a critical asset for SEO, usability, and security. Enter the concept of CuT URLs . Here is how to implement them across different environments
Start auditing your URLs today. If they aren't CuT, cut them out.