Difference Between URI and URL.

Created On: 11 February 2024

The terms URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) and URL (Uniform Resource Locator) are often used interchangeably, but they serve distinct purposes in web communication. In this article, we'll understand the key differences between URIs and URLs. 

What is a URI (Uniform Resource Identifier)?

A URI, or Uniform Resource Identifier, is a string of characters that uniquely identifies a particular resource. It serves as a generic term encompassing two subtypes: URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) and URNs (Uniform Resource Names). URIs are used to identify and interact with resources on the internet, providing a standardized way to reference entities, whether for retrieval (URL) or identification (URN).


In essence, a URI is a compact sequence of characters that serves as a digital identifier for resources such as web pages, documents, images, or any other entity accessible on the World Wide Web. URIs are fundamental to the structure of the internet and are employed in various contexts, including web browsers, APIs, and hypermedia systems.


Example:

  • URN Example: urn:isbn:0451450523
  • URL Example: https://www.example.com/page

In this example, the URI "urn:isbn:0451450523" is a URN identifying a book by its International Standard Book Number (ISBN).

What is a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)?

A URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is a specific type of Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) that provides the means to locate and retrieve a resource on the internet. URLs specify the protocol used to access the resource, the domain or IP address where the resource is hosted (the host), and the path to the resource on the server. Additionally, URLs may include optional components such as port numbers, query parameters, and fragments.

In simpler terms, a URL is a web address that enables browsers and applications to access and display specific content on the World Wide Web. URLs are widely used in everyday internet navigation and are integral to the structure of the web. 

Examples of URLs: 
  • https://www.example.com/page
  • ftp://ftp.example.com/files/document.pdf

Difference Between URI and URL.

URI URL
URI Encompasses both URLs and URNs, serving as a generic term for identifying resources on the internet. URL is a specific type of URI that includes the information needed to locate and access a resource.
URI is used for both resource identification and retrieval. URL is specifically used for specifying the location and means of accessing a resource.
URI does not give us any details about protocol specifications. URL gives us the details about the types of protocol to be used.
Example URI: urn:isbn:0451450523 (URN identifying a book by ISBN) Example URL: https://www.example.com/page (URL pointing to a webpage)

Understanding the difference between URI and URL is crucial for web developers, architects, and anyone involved in web technologies. While URIs provide a broad framework for identifying resources, URLs offer the means to access those resources by providing the necessary details for retrieval.

In everyday terms, when we type a web address into a browser, we are interacting with a URL that includes the protocol, domain, and path. On the other hand, a URI might be used in contexts where the focus is on uniquely identifying a resource without necessarily accessing it, as in the case of a URN.

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