When (if ever) should links be opened in a new window?

1. When should a link open in a new window?
2. Should external links open in a new window?
3. Why do links open in new window?
4. How do I get links to open in a new window?

When should a link open in a new window?

The only time it is recommended that you open a link in a new tab is when opening in the same screen would interrupt a process (e.g. when a user is filling out a form or viewing a video). Linking in the same tab or screen in these situations could cause the user to lose the work they've done or have to start over.

Should external links open in a new window?

External links, for instance, should always open in a new browser tab. Your goal in designing a website is to get more visitors to convert. Letting an external link replace your website in the open tab will only decrease the chances of that happening.

Why do links open in new window?

Settings in the Browser are such that the link opens in a new window. In cases like this, the settings can be changed so as to open the link in a new tab instead of a new window. The link to the page(HTML source) is coded such that it has to open a new window. In this case, nothing much can be done.

How do I get links to open in a new window?

To open a link in a new browser window, hold the Shift on then click the link or right-click the link and select Open link in New Window.