Password-Protected Links: Share Files and Pages Securely
· Features · 4 min read
Add a password to any short link so only the right people can access it. Learn when and how to use password-protected URLs for secure sharing.
Not every link is meant for everyone. A shared Google Doc for internal review, a private download for paid customers, or a confidential presentation — these all need an extra layer of access control. Password-protected links let you share a URL publicly while ensuring only people with the password can reach the destination.
What Is a Password-Protected Link?
A password-protected short link intercepts visitors before the redirect. Instead of being sent directly to the destination, they see a prompt asking for a password. Only someone who enters the correct password gets through. Everyone else is blocked.
When to Use Password-Protected Links
- Internal documents — share a link in a public Slack channel but restrict access to team members who have the password.
- Paid content — give customers a short link with a password after purchase instead of managing logins.
- Private event invitations — share an RSVP or live-stream link that only invited guests can open.
- Beta access — distribute early access to a product or feature to a specific group.
- Confidential downloads — protect a report, contract, or media file behind a simple password.
How to Create a Password-Protected Link with Alias
- Sign in to your Alias dashboard.
- Click "New link" and paste your destination URL.
- Expand the "Password" field and enter a password for the link.
- Optionally set a custom alias so the link is easy to share.
- Save — anyone who clicks the link will be prompted for the password before being redirected.
Password Links vs. Private Links
A private link (one you simply do not share widely) relies on obscurity. A password-protected link requires active knowledge of the password. Password protection is meaningfully more secure because the URL itself can be forwarded or discovered without giving access to the destination.
Tips for Using Link Passwords
- Use a different password for each link — this way a leaked password for one link does not compromise others.
- Keep passwords short and easy to type — visitors enter them on the unlock page, so avoid special characters that are hard to input on mobile.
- Combine with link expiry — set a password and an expiration date for maximum control over who can access your content and for how long.
- Share the password through a separate channel from the link — e.g. send the link via email and the password via SMS.
Protect Your Next Link for Free
Password protection is built into every Alias account at no extra cost. Create an account, shorten your link, and add a password in the same step.