This page is here to describe the differences between relative and absolute linking to files on the web.
[edit] Relative Linking
Relative links specify the location of a file (image, html file, etc) with respect to where you are currently on the web.
(Relative) <img src="image.jpeg" /> (Relative) <img src="./image.jpeg" /> (Relative) <img src="../image.jpeg" />
Examples:
When viewing http://www.unl.edu/barkley/spath/index.shtml <img src="image.jpeg" /> http://www.unl.edu/barkley/spath/image.jpeg <img src="./image.jpeg" /> http://www.unl.edu/barkley/spath/image.jpeg <img src="../image.jpeg" /> http://www.unl.edu/barkley/image.jpeg <img src="../../image.jpeg" /> http://www.unl.edu/image.jpeg
[edit] Absolute and Site Root Linking
(Site root) <img src="/barkley/spath/image.jpeg" /> (Absolute) <img src="http://www.unl.edu/barkley/spath/image.jpeg" /> (Not to be used within SSI <!--#include virtual="" --> statements)
So sometimes it's easier to always use absolute addressing. That way, there is no confusion.
General Rule of Thumb:
Use Absolute or Site Root linking in
- JavaScripts (.js)
- Inside server side included files (sharedcode navigation files etc).
And.. that gives you a little introduction as to the many ways you can specify addresses on the web. Confusing isn't it?
good luck!
[edit] Dreamweaver Settings
There are Site Settings within Dreamweaver which will change how it generates the links for files:
Open site preferences for the site. (Site>Manage Sites) then choose the Advanced tab if you aren't there already. And select the option 'Links relative to: Site Root'
