I un-clicked the passcode function for a big meeting and the link shortened

Hi @Janette1 

The link is longer because it has the password embedded in it.  When you removed the password, it shorted the link because the embedded password had been removed.  I hope that helps to explain the change in length.

Both links will work.  You can test this by creating a test meeting, removing the password, and signing out of Zoom.  Try joining the meeting as a guest using the longer URL (with password).

I just tested it on my end, and it worked like a charm.  

Thank you! I hope this information is helpful to you.  Please make sure to mark the solution as accepted if this information is what you need.

Thank you so much, Ceezy. If I understand correctly, I need to include the passcode with the longer link (which I failed to do) in order for participants to enter, yes?  So, I need to send them the new, shorter link since I no longer have the passcode. Argh. 

Oh Ceezy,

I'm so grateful.  Just to confirm (can you tell how paranoid I am that i will screw something up?!), I do not need to resend the shorter link to those who already receive the longer link since I removed the passcode. Yes?

That would be SO great!!!

@Janette1 
You do not need to resend the shorter link.  Both links will work. 
You can test it if it will make you feel better.  Starting your meeting will not hurt anything.  Good luck to you!