rel

rel Attribute

The rel attribute describes the connection between a linked resource and the current page. It is commonly used with <link>, <a>, <area>, and <form> elements.

Syntax

<tagname rel="nofollow | noopener | noreferrer | stylesheet | icon | canonical | dns-prefetch | external | author | help | license | prev | next | bookmark | search | alternate | tag" />

Example

• Link with rel attribute

<h1>The a rel attribute</h1>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://institute.qarpeo.com/">https://institute.qarpeo.com</a></p>

Area

• An image map, with a clickable area:

<img src ="img.jpg" width="145" height="126" alt="Laptop"
usemap="#planetmap">
<map name="planetmap">
  <area shape="rect" coords="0,0,82,126" href="sun.htm" alt="Sun">
  <area shape="circle" coords="90,58,3" href="mercur.htm" alt="Mercury">
  <area shape="circle" coords="124,58,8" href="venus.htm" alt="Venus">
</map>

Applies to

The rel attribute can be used on the following elements:

Key Points

• Purpose: Defines the relationship between the current document and a linked resource.
• Usage: The applicable values depend on the element.
• Values: Should be unique and separated by spaces. Common values include:
  • alternate, canonical, stylesheet (for <link>)
  • author, bookmark, next, prev (for <a>)
  • help, license, search (for <form>)

Important Values

• stylesheet: Links to an external CSS file.
• canonical: Marks the preferred URL for the page.
• nofollow: Tells search engines not to follow the link.
• noopener, noreferrer: Enhances security when opening links in new tabs or windows by mitigating risks.

Conclusion

The rel attribute in HTML defines the relationship between the current document and a linked resource, often used in elements like <a>, <link>, <area>, and <form>. It supports various values such as stylesheet, nofollow, noopener, and canonical, each serving different purposes like linking to a CSS file, instructing search engines, or enhancing security. Correct usage of the rel attribute improves navigation, SEO, and security.