nowwork.space

A URL shortener is a classic backend project that reinforces routing, database design, and CRUD operations. It’s similar to services like Bit.ly or TinyURL.

Stack suggestion:

• Backend: Node.js + Express or Python + Flask
• Database: MongoDB or PostgreSQL
• Frontend: Basic HTML/CSS or React

Core features:

1. Form to input a long URL.
2. Generate a short ID (e.g., using nanoid or base62 hash).
3. Store long URL and short ID in the database.
4. Redirect endpoint: Accessing /abc123 redirects to the original URL.
5. Analytics (optional): Track click counts and timestamps.

Example Express route:

jsКопироватьРедактироватьapp.get('/:shortId', async (req, res) => {
  const originalUrl = await db.find({ short: req.params.shortId });
  if (originalUrl) res.redirect(originalUrl);
  else res.status(404).send("Not found");
});

Bonus features:

• Expiration dates.
• Admin dashboard.
• QR code generation.

Hosting it on Heroku, Vercel, or Render makes for a strong portfolio project that demonstrates full-stack capability.