How to Open Links in a New Tab using target="_blank" in HTML

Introduction: What Does `_blank` Mean in HTML?

When you click a link on a website, it usually opens in the same browser tab.
Sometimes, you want the link to open in a new tab or window instead.

This is where _blank in HTML is used.

You’ve probably seen code like this:

<a href="https://example.com" target="_blank">Visit Site</a>

This guide explains what _blank is, how it works, when to use it, and best practices—all in a clear, beginner-friendly way.

Basic Syntax of `_blank`

<a href="https://example.com" target="_blank">Open in New Tab</a>

Explanation

<a> → Anchor tag
href → Destination URL
target="_blank" → Open link in a new tab

Example 1: Simple External Link

<a href="https://www.google.com" target="_blank">Google</a>

Output Explanation

Clicking the link opens Google
Your current page stays open

Common target Attribute Values

Value	Meaning
`_self`	Opens in same tab (default)
`_blank`	Opens in new tab
`_parent`	Opens in parent frame
`_top`	Opens in full window

When Should You Use target="_blank"?

Good Use Cases

External websites
Documentation links
Third-party resources
Download pages
References

Avoid Using `_blank` For

Internal navigation
Forms
Primary site flow

Overusing _blank can confuse users.

Security Issue with _blank (Very Important)

Using _blank without precautions can cause a security vulnerability called reverse tabnabbing.

Unsafe Example

Safe Way to Use `_blank` (Best Practice)

Always add rel="noopener noreferrer".

Secure Example

Why This Matters

Prevents malicious page access
Improves performance
Recommended by modern browsers

Using `_blank` with Images

Using `_blank` for Download Links

Accessibility Considerations

Opening new tabs without warning can confuse screen reader users.

Best Accessibility Practice

Inform users that the link opens in a new tab

Or use visible text:

SEO Impact of _blank

_blank does not directly affect SEO rankings
Overuse may increase bounce rates
Proper user experience is more important

Use _blank only when it improves usability.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Using _blank on every link
Forgetting rel="noopener noreferrer"
Using _blank for internal links
Not informing users
Confusing _blank with _self

_blank vs _self (Quick Comparison)

Feature	`_blank`	`_self`
Opens new tab	Yes	No
Default behavior	No	Yes
Best for external links	Yes	No
Requires `rel` attribute	Yes	No

Real-World Example

<p>
  Learn more on
  <a href="https://developer.mozilla.org"
     target="_blank"
     rel="noopener noreferrer">
     MDN Web Docs
  </a>
  (opens in a new tab).
</p>

FAQs: _blank in HTML

What does `_blank` do in HTML?

It opens a link in a new tab.

Is `_blank` bad practice?

No, but it should be used carefully and securely.

Should I always use `_blank` for external links?

Not always—use it when it benefits the user.

What happens if I don’t use `rel="noopener"`?

It may expose your site to security risks.

Can `_blank` open a new window instead of a tab?

It depends on browser settings.