---
title: How Does the Append HTTP Option Work in Smart Links?
description: "The **Append HTTP** setting controls whether the https:// prefix is automatically added to your smart links in SMS messages. ### **Why does it matter?** - When **enabled (true)**: Your links will include https:// (e.g., https://example.com). This is the **default and…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-does-the-append-http-option-work-in-smart-links/"
updated: "2025-09-14"
category: Smart Links
---

# How Does the Append HTTP Option Work in Smart Links?

The **Append HTTP** setting controls whether the https:// prefix is automatically added to your smart links in SMS messages.

### **Why does it matter?**

- When **enabled (true)**: Your links will include https:// (e.g., https://example.com). This is the **default and recommended** setting, as it increases recipient trust and improves click rates.
- When **disabled (false)**: The https:// part is removed (e.g., example.com). This saves about **6–8 characters**, which can be useful if you’re close to the SMS character limit.

⚠️ **Important:** While disabling saves characters, recipients may hesitate to click on links without https://. Always test with a small audience before rolling it out to a full campaign.

### **API Usage**

If you are sending messages through the API, you can control this behavior using the parameter:

- appendHTTP=true → Adds https:// to your smart link (default).
- appendHTTP=false → Removes https:// from your smart link.

### **Best Practice**

Keep **Append HTTP = true** unless you absolutely need to save characters.

### More Related Articles

- [Can I create a smart link while sending SMS with SMS Gateway Center?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/can-i-create-a-smart-link-while-sending-sms-with-sms-gateway-center/)
- [How can I create a new Smart Link using the SMSGatewayCenter platform?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/create-smart-link/)
- [How do I view and understand the analytics data for a specific Smart Link on SMSGatewayCenter?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-i-view-and-understand-the-analytics-data-for-a-specific-smart-link-on-smsgatewaycenter/)

Found this useful?[Add as Preferred Source on Google](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=smsgatewaycenter.com)