URL Expander 2.0: Now Part of homelab.codes with Enhanced Features
The Ultimate URL Expander now includes tracking parameter removal, QR code generation, and local history - all integrated directly into homelab.codes.
A few months ago, I introduced a simple tool to help homelab enthusiasts follow ad-tracked links without compromising their Pi-hole or AdGuard setups. Today, I'm excited to announce that the URL Expander has evolved into something even more powerful and is now fully integrated into homelab.codes.
What's New?
The URL Expander (now available in the Tool section as Url Expander) includes several new features that make it even more useful for privacy-conscious users:
- Tracking Parameter Removal: Optionally strip out tracking and analytics parameters from URLs
- Aggressive Mode: Remove all URL parameters for maximum privacy (with a warning about potential functionality impacts)
- QR Code Generation: Instantly generate QR codes for expanded URLs
- Local History: Your expanded URLs are saved locally in your browser for convenient reference
- Full Redirect Chain: See every hop in the redirect path
Why These Features Matter
For those of us running ad-blockers like Pi-hole or AdGuard, following legitimate tracked links has always been a balancing act between convenience and privacy. The original version solved the basic problem of expanding blocked URLs, but these new features give you more control over your privacy:
- Want to follow a newsletter link but remove the tracking parameters? Now you can.
- Need to share the expanded URL via mobile? The QR code feature has you covered.
- Curious about the full redirect chain? Every hop is now visible.
Looking Forward
This tool started as a solution to a personal annoyance, but the feedback from the homelab community has been invaluable in shaping these new features. As always, I'm open to suggestions and feedback - feel free to reach out on GitHub, Reddit, or X.
Visit homelab.codes/tools/url-expander to try out the new features!