Create a Custom Alias Short Link

Why a custom alias beats a random short code

A default shortened link looks something like link.ought.in/Ab7Kx2 — fine for a quick one-off share, but forgettable, and it gives visitors no clue what they're about to click. A custom alias lets you replace that random code with words that actually mean something, like link.ought.in/summer-sale or link.ought.in/webinar-2026.

That matters for two reasons. First, memorability — a custom alias can be read aloud, typed from memory, or printed on a flyer or business card without anyone needing to scan a QR code or copy-paste. Second, trust — a link that clearly says where it's going (/black-friday) gets clicked more confidently than an opaque random string, especially in emails and social posts where link-shortener abuse has made people wary of clicking blind.

How custom aliases are kept unique and safe

When you request a custom alias, it's checked against a few rules before it's created:

• Not already taken — each alias can only be claimed once at a time (though one that's later deleted becomes available again)
• Not a reserved word — system paths like admin or login can't be claimed as aliases, so they never conflict with the site itself
• Valid characters and length — letters, numbers, hyphens and underscores only, within an admin-configured length range

How to create one

1. Create a free account — custom aliases are a logged-in feature, since they're tied to your dashboard for editing later.
2. Paste your destination URL, then type your chosen alias into the "Custom alias" field before creating the link.
3. Share link.ought.in/your-alias anywhere — it behaves exactly like any other short link, with full click analytics, an optional expiration date, click limit, or password protection.