Linux Journal - September 2011

local files, but unless the page starts with www, remember to put the preceding http:// before on-line pages, or it automatically scans local files instead.

Once inside, enter the URL in the bar at the top and press Enter.

Whether in the GUI or console version, LinkChecker gradually makes its way through all the pages of a given Web site, outputting any broken links or warnings in the process. Depending on the Web page, the output can be pretty verbose, so console users might consider piping the output for larger pages.

Once the scan has finished, a readout is provided with the number of valid and invalid URLs, as well as various statistics having to do with URLs and content.

In the end, LinkChecker is a very simple project that serves its purpose beautifully. Its ease of use and multiplatform nature also make everyday usage much more likely. Any serious Webmaster should check out this project.;

John Knight is a 27-year-old, drumming- and bass-obsessed maniac, studying Psychology at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia. He usually can be found playing a kick-drum far too much.