Callback URL

What is callback URL?

A callback URL is a web address that an application will redirect to after a certain event has occurred, often with some additional data. This is a common pattern in web development, especially in scenarios involving authentication, webhooks, or integrating third-party services.

For example, when you log into a website using a third-party service (like logging into a site with your Google account), after successful authentication, Google will redirect you back to the original website using a callback URL provided by that website. This URL often includes important data like an authentication token.

In simpler terms, a callback URL is like giving someone a return address; once they've completed their task (like authenticating your login), they'll "send" you (redirect your browser) back to that address, often with some extra information needed for the next step of the process.