What is the function of the <link> tag in HTML?

The function of the tag in HTML is to link to external resources. This tag is primarily used to connect an HTML document to external files such as stylesheets (CSS), which can define the presentation of the document. When you use the tag, you provide a way for browsers to access and apply these external resources to the webpage, allowing for more efficient and manageable styling.

For instance, by linking a CSS file, you can maintain a consistent design across multiple pages of a website without having to repeat the styles in each HTML file. This modular approach not only helps with organization but also enhances loading speed, as the browser can cache the linked resources.

In contrast, while a hyperlink is created with the tag, sections are defined using structural tags like

, and images are imported using the tag. Each of these serves a distinct purpose in HTML, which is why the emphasis is on the tag’s capability to establish a connection to external resources.