What kind of URL references files on the same server within the same directory?

A relative URL is used to reference files on the same server within the same directory, making it a practical choice for linking to resources without the need for a complete path. This type of URL provides a path relative to the current document's location, which means it can be shorter and easier to manage. For example, if a webpage is located in a directory called "images," referencing another file in the same directory can simply be done by specifying the file name, such as "photo.jpg."

This approach also enhances portability, as the relative URL will still work regardless of the domain or directory structure if the same hierarchy is maintained. When using relative URLs, developers can move entire sections of a website without needing to update all links, simplifying maintenance and reducing errors.

In contrast, an absolute URL includes the entire path to the resource, including the protocol (http/https), domain name, and all directories, which can be unnecessarily lengthy for local files. Hardcoded and softcoded URLs are terms that describe how URLs may be integrated into code but do not specifically address the relationship of the URL to its server or directory structure.