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WordPress Guide: How to Open External Links in a New Window or Tab

Providing a seamless user experience is essential when managing a WordPress website. A key consideration is whether links should open in the same window or a new tab, redirecting users away from the current page. Best practices in link management can simplify navigation and enhance user engagement, ensuring visitors interact more effectively with your site.

Opening links in a new window or tab allows visitors to explore additional content without leaving your site. This approach is especially beneficial in the following scenarios:

Understanding when to open a link in a new tab is crucial. Here are common instances where it’s recommended:

Opening news articles, tools, or references in a new tab is generally a good practice when adding external links to your site. This allows users to explore the new platform while easily returning to your content.

2. Downloadable Content

For downloadable items like PDFs, eBooks, or detailed reports, opening them in a new tab ensures a seamless user experience. Users can view or download the file without being redirected away from your site.

Affiliate or sponsored links often lead to third-party platforms. By having these links open in a new tab, your original content stays accessible, enhancing user convenience and maintaining engagement.

4. Long Forms or Interactive Tools

When directing users to interactive tools, such as calculators or quizzes, opening these links in a new tab prevents users from losing progress on your site.

5. Login or Checkout Pages

Login or checkout pages often involve secure sessions. Opening these in a new tab isolates the session and allows users to reference the original page if needed.

When Not to Open Links in New Tabs

Not all links should open in new tabs. Here are instances where it’s best to let users navigate in the same window:

1. Internal Navigation

Links pointing to other pages within your site should remain in the same window for consistency.

2. Step-by-Step Processes

If users are completing a process, like course registration, keep all steps in the same window to avoid confusion.

3. Blog Posts or Content Threads

For related blog posts or categories, it’s more intuitive to open them in the same window unless there’s a specific reason not to.

WordPress makes it easy to configure links to open in new tabs. Here’s how to do it:

1. Using the Block Editor (Gutenberg)

  1. Highlight the text or select the block containing the link.
  2. Click the Link icon in the toolbar.
  3. After entering the URL, click the “Open in new tab” toggle.
  4. Confirm and update or publish the post/page.

2. Using the Classic Editor

  1. Highlight the anchor text and click the Insert/Edit Link icon.
  2. Click the gear icon for additional settings.
  3. Check “Open link in a new tab”.
  4. Click Add Link.

3. Using HTML

If you prefer to work in the code editor or add links manually:

<a href="https://example.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit Example</a>

This method is especially helpful when using custom HTML widgets or page builders.

The Importance of rel=“noopener noreferrer”

Whenever you use target="_blank" in your HTML, it’s best practice to include rel="noopener noreferrer" for security and performance:

Accessibility Considerations

Opening links in new windows can create challenges for users relying on screen readers. To maintain accessibility:

1. Provide a Visual Cue

Add icons or tooltips to indicate that the link opens in a new tab.

2. Use Descriptive Anchor Text

Avoid generic phrases like “Click here.” Describe the destination clearly and mention the new tab behavior.

Example: Visit our partner site (opens in a new tab)

3. Avoid Excessive Use

Overusing new tab links can be disorienting. Be strategic and limit use to necessary cases.

SEO and Performance Impact

Opening links in new tabs does not directly influence your site’s ranking but consider these indirect effects:

1. User Experience

Better navigation keeps users engaged, reducing bounce rate—a metric sometimes associated with SEO health.

2. Site Performance

Ensure that links to external sites are valid and not broken. Broken links harm credibility and user experience.

Use rel="nofollow" for affiliate or promotional content to comply with search engine guidelines.

Plugin Solutions for Bulk Management

For sites with hundreds of links, plugins can help manage link behavior at scale.

  1. WP External Links

    • Customize how links behave.
    • Add icons and manage nofollow tags.

  2. Open External Links in a New Window

    • Automatically configures external links to open in new tabs.

  3. Rank Math or Yoast SEO

    • Offers link analysis and nofollow settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Forcing New Tabs for Every Link
    This frustrates users who prefer using browser controls themselves.

  2. Using target="_blank" Without Security Tags
    Omitting rel="noopener noreferrer" exposes your site to security risks.

  3. Using Generic Link Text
    Anchor text like “Click here” reduces clarity for assistive technologies.

  4. Not Informing Users
    Links that open unexpectedly can confuse users without proper indicators.

Conclusion

Opening links in new windows or tabs within WordPress is a valuable tool when used purposefully. It enhances user experience, supports smooth navigation, and protects user journeys—especially for external content, downloads, and interactive tools. Implement with care, prioritize accessibility, follow security best practices, and avoid overuse. With proper planning and execution, you can create a browsing experience that respects user control while maintaining site engagement and trust.

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