A URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is the address used to access resources on the internet. It tells your web browser where to find a specific webpage or file. For example, when you type a URL like www.example.com into your browser, it directs you to that website. URLs are essential for navigating the web, as they provide a way to locate and retrieve information. Each URL consists of several parts, including the protocol, which indicates how data is transferred (like HTTP or HTTPS), and the domain name, which identifies the website. Some URLs also include additional information, such as paths or query parameters, to specify particular content or actions. Understanding URLs helps users effectively browse and share information online.