How to share a Dropbox File or Folder with a Short URL

[Susan P.1]

I would like to make some files stored in my Dropbox, downloadable from a web page. For this reason, I would like to be able to create Short URL's for each file. I have read the following tutorial but it seems to be old: http://www.ampercent.com/link-to-dropbox-files-folders-short-url/6215/

Could you advise me please?

Thanks.

[Ed · Accepted solution]

Hi Susan

What you could do is hit 'share' on your desired folder/files and then copy the long link into a URL shortener (any 3rd party shortener you currently use like http://bit.ly or http://tinyurl.com).

Hope it helps!

[Jason W.23]

With the file selected in the Web UI, select the 'Copy public link' option..you'll then see the 'Short URL' link in the popup window.
This seems to only be available for files.

[Victor V.14]

I wouldn't think it twice to upgrade my account to "Pro" if they offered with it official Dropbox shortened URL's. (Just saying 😉 )

[Hasnain S.]

It's quite frustrating that they removed the short links. It was so helpful. Links are shared over text, IM, etc. We cant always hyperlink something or just paste long links everywhere. You can use the bitly browser extension (bitly.com/a/tools) to get around this. The lack of this feature is just not ok for a company as mature as Dropbox.

[NK S.]

Agree, there should be a way to get a short URL right here on Dropbox.

[Biz B.]

The short URL feature is working for me (a free user) today. Thanks, Dropbox!

[James C.48]

Many people like myself use DropBox for secure storage within their business and have sensitivities around a third-party hosting their URL, as they have traditionally been a vector for leaks. For DropBox to have their own URL shortener just makes sense. 

[Gordon K.2]

There is a short link when i use dropbox on my cellphone and select share with textmail... It goes like https://db.tt/... Then copy and paste... But that's an annoying workaround! 

[Jen1]

A workaround I use is to share the folder with a password and expiration date on the link, then use bit.ly to shorten the enormously long link. I have Dropbox for Business. Not sure if passwords work anywhere else.

Dear Dropbox: You clearly already have a shortened link process somewhere in your vast resources (we can do it on the phone). Can you please roll it out to dropbox at the computer?