Sometimes you want to share a link — a document, a private page, a pre-launch offer — but only with the right people. A password-protected short link does exactly that: anyone with the link still has to enter a password before they're forwarded to the destination. Here's how to set one up with lynkily, free.
What is a password-protected link?
It's a normal short link with an extra gate. When someone opens it, instead of forwarding immediately, lynkily shows a small "enter password" screen. Only visitors who type the correct password reach the destination — everyone else is stopped. You still get full click analytics on who got through.
How to password protect a link (step by step)
- Open the link creator and paste your destination URL.
- In the Password protect field, type the password you want to require.
- Click create. Share the short link as usual.
- When someone opens it, they'll be asked for the password before being forwarded.
Already made the link? Open it from your dashboard, hit Edit, and add (or change) the password anytime. You can also remove protection later with one click.
When to use a password-protected link
- Client deliverables — share a proof or file with just your client.
- Pre-launch pages — tease a product to insiders before it's public.
- Internal resources — keep an internal doc link from spreading.
- Paid or gated content — hand the password only to people who should have access.
Password links vs expiring links
Password protection controls who can open a link; an expiring link controls how long it works. You can combine both — a link that needs a password and stops working after a set date — for maximum control.
Is it free?
Yes. Password protection is included on lynkily, and paid plans (from just $3/mo) add full analytics, branded domains and more — see pricing. New to short links? Start with what a URL shortener is.