How Do I Get the Current Absolute URL in Ruby on Rails?

Tagline Infotech LLP
2 min readDec 22, 2023

Hey, fellow Ruby on Rails enthusiasts! I recently found myself on a coding quest, grappling with a common challenge that many of us encounter: grabbing the current absolute URL in a Ruby on Rails application. After a bit of exploration and a few “aha” moments, I’m here to share my newfound wisdom with you. So, buckle up as we embark on this journey together!

Understanding the Quest

As developers navigating the Ruby on Rails landscape, we often encounter scenarios where we need the absolute URL of the current page. Whether it’s for dynamic navigation, generating shareable links, or some other magical feature, having the current absolute URL at our fingertips is a valuable asset.

The Ruby Magic Unveiled

Fear not, my fellow developers! Obtaining the current absolute URL is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a little Ruby sorcery to add to your repertoire:

current_absolute_url = request.original_url

Yes, it’s as simple as that! The request.original_url method gracefully hands us the absolute URL of the current page. It's like a secret passage in your code that leads straight to the URL treasure.

Let’s Break It Down

  • request: In the context of a Ruby on Rails application, the request object is your sidekick, carrying crucial information about the incoming HTTP request.
  • original_url: This nifty method encapsulates the entire URL of the current request, including the protocol, domain, path, and any query parameters. It's the full package!

Practical Example

Imagine you’re building a feature that generates shareable links to a specific page. Using our newfound knowledge, crafting such a link becomes a breeze:

current_absolute_url = request.original_url
shareable_link = "https://www.example.com/share?redirect=#{current_absolute_url}"

See how we effortlessly integrate the absolute URL into our shareable link? That’s the power of understanding and utilizing the tools at our disposal.

A Friendly Reminder

Remember, dear developers, that the world of Ruby on Rails is vast and ever-evolving. As we journey through our coding adventures, it’s essential to stay curious and open-minded. Embrace the challenges, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

Conclusion: Where to Go From Here

Congratulations! You’ve successfully unlocked the mystery of obtaining the current absolute URL in Ruby on Rails. As you continue to hone your skills, consider exploring more Rails magic and expanding your coding arsenal.

And hey, if you find yourself needing expert assistance or want to level up your Ruby on Rails team, why not consider hiring Ruby on Rails developers? They bring a wealth of experience and passion to the table, ready to tackle any coding quest that comes their way.

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Tagline Infotech LLP

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