Link rot refers to the process where hyperlinks on webpages become outdated or broken over time. This help page covers preventing link rot, repairing dead links, and understanding the usefulness of keeping dead, unarchived source URLs.

In general, do not delete cited information solely because the URL to the source does not work any longer. Tools, procedures, and processes are available as outlined in this document.

Preventing Link Rot

• Use Reliable Sources: Prefer sources with a stable URL structure and good archival practices.
• Archive URLs: Use services like the Wayback Machine to create and use archived versions of webpages.
• Cite Multiple Sources: Where possible, back up important information with multiple sources to ensure its longevity.

How to use the template

{{deadlink}} produces: ^{[dead link]}.
{{deadlink|reason=Please update or find an archived version of the external link.}} produces "^{[dead link]}" and is used for further clarification. Reason text is changed to your specifications.
{{deadlink|date=June 9, 2026}} produces "^{[dead link]}" and is used for dating the tag.
{{deadlink|fix-attempted=yes|date=June 9, 2026}} produces "^{[permanent dead link]}" and the description text "Dead link tagged (June 9, 2026)"

Repairing a Dead Link

Avoid bare URLs. Use the citation templates {{cite web}} for citations, and use a web archiving service such as Internet Archive or Archive.today.

1. Find an Archived Version: Use the Wayback Machine or similar services to locate an archived version of the dead link. If the link is still live but not yet archived, visit the web site of the archive service of your choice and request that the page be archived.
2. Update the URL: Replace the dead link with the archived version in your article. Within citation templates, put the archive URL in |archive-url= and add an |archive-date=.
3. Find an Alternative Source: Look for another reliable source that verifies the same information and update the reference accordingly.

Keeping Dead, Unarchived Source URLs

Even if a source URL is dead and unarchived:

• It can still indicate that the information was likely verifiable in the past.
• It provides a starting point for finding alternative sources or archived versions.
• Keeping the dead URL can be useful for transparency and for future editors who may attempt to verify the information.

See also

• Help:When to Cite
• Help:Source Reliability
• Help:Maintenance template removal
• Help:Verifiability
• Help:Neutral point of view
• Help:Conflict of interest

Conclusion

Link rot is an inevitable challenge when dealing with web-based sources, but with proactive measures and a structured approach to repairing dead links, its impact can be minimized. By archiving URLs, using reliable sources, and understanding the value of dead links, you can help maintain the accuracy and reliability of your content. For further assistance, refer to this help page or contact an administrator.