Description
The target attribute is deprecated and its use as a layout mechanism, like that of the frameset, is no longer common. However, if you do find yourself having to maintain a frameset-based web site, you may need to open links in frames or windows other than the one in which the source of the link resides.
Example
Here, the target attribute for the a element is set to "_top":
<p>You can try our <a href="cakes.html" target="_top">lovely range of cakes</a>.</p>
Value
The attribute can take any of the following values:
-
"_blank"loads content in a
completely new window -
"frame name"loads content in
a frame with a custom name -
"_parent"loads content in
the parentframesetfor the current
frame -
"_self"loads content in the same frame (This attribute isn’t normally required, as this is the default behavior unless thebaseelement specifies otherwise. In that case, you’d need to override the specification using"_self"; for example,<base target="searchresults"/>.) -
"_top"loads content in the top-levelframeset(in effect, the whole browser window), no matter how many nested levels down the currentframeis located
Frequently Asked Questions about HTML Target Attribute
What is the purpose of the target attribute in HTML?
The target attribute in HTML is used to specify where to open the linked document. It can be used with various elements, but it’s most commonly used with the element. The target attribute can have several values, including “_blank” (which opens the link in a new window or tab), “_self” (which opens the link in the same frame as it was clicked), “_parent” (which opens the link in the parent frame), and “_top” (which opens the link in the full body of the window).
How do I use the target attribute in HTML?
To use the target attribute in HTML, you need to include it within the tag. For example, if you want to open a link in a new window, you would write: Visit Example.com. This code tells the browser to open the link at “https://www.example.com” in a new window or tab.
Can I use the target attribute with elements other than ?
Yes, the target attribute can also be used with the
What happens if I don’t specify a target attribute?
If you don’t specify a target attribute, the link will open in the same window or tab as it was clicked. This is the same as using the “_self” value.
Is the target attribute supported in all browsers?
Yes, the target attribute is supported in all major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. However, the behavior may vary slightly depending on the browser settings.
Can I use the target attribute to open a link in a specific frame?
Yes, you can use the target attribute to open a link in a specific frame by giving that frame a name and then using that name as the value of the target attribute. For example, if you have a frame named “myFrame”, you can open a link in that frame by writing: Visit Example.com.
What is the difference between “_blank” and “_new” in the target attribute?
The “_blank” value for the target attribute opens the linked document in a new window or tab, while the “_new” value is not a valid value for the target attribute in HTML5. It was used in older versions of HTML to open the linked document in a new unnamed window, but it has been deprecated and should not be used.
Can I use the target attribute to open a link in a new window, not a tab?
The behavior of the “_blank” value for the target attribute depends on the user’s browser settings. By default, most modern browsers open new pages in tabs rather than windows. However, users can change this setting in their browser preferences.
Is it possible to use the target attribute with JavaScript?
Yes, it is possible to use the target attribute with JavaScript. You can use the window.open() method to open a new window or tab and specify the target as one of the parameters.
Are there any accessibility concerns with using the target attribute?
Yes, there are some accessibility concerns with using the target attribute. Opening new windows or tabs can be disorienting for people who have difficulty perceiving visual content, and for some people with cognitive disabilities. It’s recommended to inform users when a link will open in a new window or tab, either through text in the link or through an icon.
Adam is SitePoint's head of newsletters, who mainly writes Versioning, a daily newsletter covering everything new and interesting in the world of web development. He has a beard and will talk to you about beer and Star Wars, if you let him.
