Direct links are embeddable CDN URLs that point directly to your Asset's files in Lingo. Instead of downloading an Asset and hosting it elsewhere, you can reference it directly from Lingo wherever you need it.
How direct links work
When you create a direct link, Lingo generates a URL that points to your Asset file. This URL can be embedded in websites, emails, applications, or anywhere that accepts a file URL.
Key characteristics:
Points directly to the Asset file, not a Lingo page
Loads from Lingo's Content Delivery Network (CDN) for fast, reliable delivery worldwide
Stays up-to-date automatically when you update the Asset in Lingo
Works for most Asset types: images, videos, fonts, documents, and more
Why use direct links
Always up-to-date Update an Asset in Lingo, and everywhere it's embedded shows the latest version automatically. No need to re-download and re-upload files across multiple platforms.
Fast, global delivery Direct links are served through a CDN, which means your Assets load quickly for viewers anywhere in the world. The CDN automatically routes requests to the closest server.
Centralized management Keep your Assets organized in one place while using them everywhere. You maintain a single source of truth for all your brand assets.
Reduced hosting needs No need to store and manage files separately for each website or application. Reference them directly from Lingo.
Detailed usage tracking Monitor how often each direct link is accessed, helping you understand asset popularity and manage bandwidth.
Common use cases
Website assets Embed logos, icons, and images directly in your HTML without hosting them separately.
Email templates Reference images in HTML emails. Recipients always see the current version.
Applications Pull Assets programmatically for use in apps, dashboards, or digital products.
Documentation sites Reference screenshots and diagrams that update automatically when you refresh them in Lingo.
Marketing campaigns Use the same Assets across multiple campaigns and platforms while maintaining consistency.
Exports and spreadsheets If you need a spreadsheet to share files outside of Lingo, you can use direct links to ensure recipients always have access to the latest versions.
Important considerations
What happens to direct links when:
You update an Asset - The direct link continues working and shows the updated version
You delete an Asset - The direct link stops working immediately
You exceed your usage limit - A customer support representative will reach out to discuss options. Links will continue to work.
How much do direct links cost?
Direct links are included with all Lingo plans. Each plan has a monthly usage limit based on the number of direct link requests and total bandwidth. Learn more in Understanding Direct Link Usage Limits.
Technical details
CDN delivery All direct links are served through Lingo's Content Delivery Network. This provides fast load times, high availability, and automatic scaling for traffic spikes.
Supported file types Most Asset types support direct links, including SVG, PNG, JPG, PDF, fonts, videos, and more.
Link format Direct links may include parameters for format conversion (PNG, JPG, SVG) and sizing options, depending on the Asset type.