How to Link a PDF: 5 Free Methods to Create Shareable PDF Links

Need to share a PDF but don't want to send a bulky email attachment? Learning how to link a PDF is the solution. This guide shows you exactly how to link a PDF file so anyone can view it with a simple click.

What Does It Mean to Link a PDF?

When you "link a PDF," you're creating a web URL that points directly to your PDF document. Instead of attaching the file to an email, you share a clickable link. Recipients click the link and view your PDF instantly in their browser.

Benefits of linking a PDF:

• No attachment limits - Share PDFs of any size
• Instant access - Recipients view instantly, no downloads
• Easy updates - Update the PDF without resending
• Track views - See who opened your document
• Works everywhere - View on any device

How to Link a PDF: 5 Methods

Method 1: LinkyHost (Fastest & Free)

The easiest way to link a PDF:

1. Go to LinkyHost PDF Link Generator
2. Drag and drop your PDF file
3. Copy your new link
4. Share it anywhere

Why LinkyHost?

• Free, no signup required
• Instant link generation (under 5 seconds)
• View tracking and analytics
• Password protection (optional)
• Pro links never expire

Method 2: Google Drive

If you have a Google account:

1. Upload PDF to drive.google.com
2. Right-click the file → "Share"
3. Click "Get link"
4. Set to "Anyone with the link"
5. Copy and share

Limitations:

• Requires Google account
• Google branding on viewer
• No analytics

Method 3: Dropbox

For Dropbox users:

1. Upload PDF to Dropbox
2. Click "Share" on the file
3. Click "Create link"
4. Copy the link

Limitations:

• Account required
• Bandwidth limits on free tier
• No view tracking

Method 4: OneDrive

Microsoft's option:

1. Upload PDF to OneDrive
2. Right-click → "Share"
3. Configure link settings
4. Copy link

Limitations:

• Microsoft account required
• Limited customization

Method 5: Your Own Website

If you have web hosting:

1. Upload PDF to your server via FTP
2. Link to it: https://yoursite.com/files/document.pdf

Limitations:

• Requires hosting knowledge
• No built-in analytics
• Manual setup

How to Link a PDF - Quick Comparison

Method	Free	No Signup	Analytics	Password
LinkyHost	✅	✅	✅	✅
Google Drive	✅	❌	❌	❌
Dropbox	✅*	❌	❌	❌
OneDrive	✅	❌	❌	❌
Own Website	Varies	N/A	❌	❌

*Dropbox has bandwidth limits on free accounts

How to Make a PDF a Link: Step-by-Step

Here's the detailed process using LinkyHost:

Step 1: Prepare Your PDF

• Ensure your PDF is final and ready to share
• Check file size (free tier: 1 upload, 10MB, active for 7 days)
• Name the file descriptively

Step 2: Upload to LinkyHost

• Visit LinkyHost PDF Link Generator
• Drag your PDF into the upload area, or click to browse
• Wait 2-5 seconds for upload

Step 3: Copy Your Link

• Your unique link appears automatically
• Click "Copy" to copy to clipboard
• The link format: linkyhost.com/v/your-unique-code

Step 4: Share Your PDF Link

• Paste in emails, messages, or social media
• Recipients click to view instantly
• No downloads or account needed to view

Step 5: Track Views (Optional)

• Log in to see view analytics
• Track: view count, timestamps, locations, devices
• See which links get the most engagement

Tips for Linking PDFs Effectively

Use Descriptive Link Text

Instead of: "Click here: https://www.linkyhost.com/v/abc123"

Use: "View our pricing guide"

Test Before Sharing

Always click your link to verify:

• PDF loads correctly
• Displays properly on mobile
• No login required to view

Consider Password Protection

For sensitive documents:

• Add a password in LinkyHost settings
• Share the password separately
• Protects confidential information

Set Expiration if Needed

For time-sensitive documents:

• Set link to expire after a certain date
• Useful for offers, contracts, or temporary access

Common Questions About Linking PDFs

How do I link a PDF in an email?

Upload your PDF to LinkyHost, copy the generated link, and paste it in your email body. Write descriptive text like "View the proposal here" and make the link clickable.

How do I make a PDF a link for free?

Use LinkyHost's free PDF to link converter. Upload your PDF and get a shareable link instantly. No signup or payment required.

Can I link a PDF on my phone?

Yes. LinkyHost works on mobile browsers. Visit the site, upload your PDF, and copy the link - all from your phone.

How do I link a PDF to a website?

Upload your PDF to LinkyHost and copy the link. Then add the link to your website using HTML: <a href="your-link">Download PDF</a>

How long does a PDF link last?

Free links are active for 7 days. Pro links ($9/mo or $50/yr) are permanent and never expire. You can optionally set an expiration date if you want the link to stop working after a certain time.

Can I see who viewed my PDF link?

Yes. LinkyHost includes free analytics showing view counts, timestamps, visitor locations, and devices used to access your PDF.

How do I turn a PDF into a link?

Upload your PDF to LinkyHost and we automatically turn it into a shareable link. The entire process takes under 30 seconds.

Use Cases for PDF Links

Business Documents

Link contracts, proposals, invoices, and reports for easy client sharing.

Job Applications

Create a resume link to share with recruiters. Track when they view it.

Marketing Materials

Link brochures, catalogs, and presentations in email campaigns.

Educational Resources

Teachers can link worksheets, syllabi, and study guides for students.

Personal Documents

Share forms, tickets, or documents with family and friends.

Related Guides

• How to Create a Link to a PDF
• How to Turn a PDF Into a Link
• How to Share a PDF as a Link
• Convert PDF to Link

Conclusion

Learning how to link a PDF opens up easier, more professional ways to share documents. For the fastest method with free analytics and no signup required, use LinkyHost's PDF to Link tool.

Ready to link your PDF? Convert PDF to Link Free →