Link Expiration
Control how long your links stay active. Set time-based deadlines or click-based limits to create temporary, self-expiring links for campaigns, offers, and time-sensitive content.
How It Works
When shortening a URL on Plung, you can optionally configure one or both of the following expiration controls:
- Time-based expiration: set a specific date and time after which the link will no longer redirect to the destination.
- Click-based expiration: set a maximum number of clicks. Once the limit is reached, the link automatically deactivates.
These controls can be used independently or combined. For example, you could create a link that expires in 7 days or after 500 clicks, whichever comes first.
Use Cases
- Flash sales & limited offers: create promotional links that automatically expire when the campaign ends.
- Event invitations: share registration links that deactivate after the event date or after a fixed number of signups.
- Temporary file sharing: distribute access to documents or resources with built-in time limits.
- Beta access & early launches: limit early access links to a controlled number of users.
- Security-sensitive links: ensure that shared links don't remain active indefinitely, reducing the window of exposure.
Works with Every Feature
Link expiration works seamlessly with all other Plung features. Combine it with custom aliases for branded campaign links, password protection for gated access, or QR codes for print distribution. All clicks before expiration are tracked through link analytics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is link expiration free on Plung?+
Yes. Link expiration controls are available at no cost through the public shortener. You can set both time-based and click-based limits without creating an account. For API-based usage, feature availability depends on your subscription plan.
What types of expiration can I set?+
Plung supports two types of expiration: time-based (the link expires after a specific date and time) and click-based (the link expires after a set number of clicks). You can use either or both simultaneously.
What happens when a link expires?+
Once a link reaches its expiration condition, whether by date or click limit, the shortened URL will no longer redirect visitors to the destination. Visitors will see a notification that the link has expired.
Can I extend or remove an expiration after creating a link?+
Expiration settings are configured at the time of link creation and cannot be modified after the link has been created through the public shortener. If you need different settings, you may create a new shortened link.
Do links expire by default?+
No. By default, all shortened links created on Plung are permanent and do not expire. Expiration is entirely optional and must be explicitly configured during link creation.