What does target = "_blank" do in a link tag?

Using target = "_blank" in a link tag instructs the web browser to open the linked resource in a new tab or window. This functionality enhances user experience by allowing visitors to explore additional content without navigating away from the current page.

When a user clicks a link that has this attribute, the browser responds by creating a new browsing context—typically a new tab, although some browsers may open a new window depending on user settings and behavior. This design ensures that users can easily switch back to the original content, maintaining their browsing flow.

Understanding this attribute is crucial for web development as it affects how users interact with the website, making it essential for managing user navigation effectively. Options that suggest it opens in a specific tab or window name, or those that claim it is invalid, misrepresent the actual functionality.