xlinkhref

xlink:href is an attribute used in SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) and other XML-based documents to create hyperlinks between elements or to external resources. It is part of the XLink namespace, which provides a standard way to define complex linking structures within XML documents.

In the context of SVG, the xlink:href attribute specifies the target of a hyperlink, such as a URL, a local element ID, or an external resource. For example, it can be used within an <use> element to reference predefined graphical objects or within an <a> element to make portions of a graphic clickable, linking to additional information or resources.

The attribute adheres to the syntax standards set by the XLink specification, which defines attributes like xlink:type, xlink:role, and xlink:show to control link behavior and presentation. The preferred namespace for xlink attributes in XML is "http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink", and the namespace prefix "xlink" is typically associated with this URI.

In HTML5, the use of xlink:href has been largely deprecated in favor of standard href attributes, but it remains relevant in SVG and XML documents adhering to the XLink standard. Proper use of xlink:href enhances the interoperability of SVG graphics, enabling the creation of complex, interconnected visual elements within web pages and XML data exchanges.

Overall, xlink:href is a fundamental attribute for linking elements in SVG and XML documents, facilitating the integration of interactive and interconnected content within digital graphics and data structures.