A website menu is a collection of navigation links between sections. In Joomla, a menu contains items, while a menu module or template usually controls its visible placement.
Menus, items and modules
A menu groups items. An item defines a page type or destination and may have children. A module displays a selected menu in a template position. Several modules can display the same menu with different settings.
A Joomla menu item can also influence routing, page parameters and module assignments. Removing or reorganising items therefore requires checking public URLs.
Navigation structure
Use meaningful labels and a consistent hierarchy. An active item identifies the current location, while breadcrumbs show a path to the page. They complement menus rather than replace section content.
On multilingual Joomla sites, check the language of menus, items and modules. Language switching should lead to suitable associated content.
Mobile use and accessibility
Menus should work with keyboards and touchscreens. Submenus must not rely solely on mouse hover. Check visible focus, the toggle button’s label and state, and the ability to close the panel.
Avoid overwhelming the top level with dozens of links. Test long translations, zoom and narrow-screen behaviour.
Summary
Joomla menus connect site structure with navigation. Usability depends on clear items, correct routes and accessible presentation across devices.