Contents
What is a redirect?
A redirect is an automatic forwarding of a user from one URL to another. This tool allows for traffic management on a site, ensuring users receive up-to-date information even if they are trying to access an outdated or temporarily unavailable page. Website owners can effectively retain and keep users by directing them to the correct pages without unnecessary inconvenience.
For example, if the user enters postmypost.io in the browser's address bar, they will be automatically redirected to https://www.postmypost.io/. In this case, the page from which the redirect occurs is called the source page, and the final page is called the target page.
Why use redirects?
Redirects play a key role in maintaining the functionality of a website. Here are several main reasons for their use:
- Retaining users: When a website changes its domain, for example, from company-old.com to company-new.com, redirects help to redirect users who may still enter the old address.
- Minimizing inconvenience: When a user lands on a page that no longer exists, they may encounter a 404 error, which can lead to them leaving the site. Redirects help avoid this situation.
- Redirecting to mobile version: With the increase in mobile device usage, companies create mobile versions of their sites. Redirects ensure automatic forwarding of users to the appropriate version of the site.
- Notifying about maintenance: During maintenance, redirects can direct users to a page with information about when the site will be available again.
- Preserving SEO ranking: Without a redirect when changing a page address, search engines may treat it as new, which can negatively impact its positions in search results.
Types of redirects
There are several types of redirects, each serving its purpose:
- 301 Redirect (Permanent redirect): Used when a page has been permanently moved. This redirect helps preserve SEO ranking.
- 302 Redirect (Temporary redirect): Used for temporary forwarding, when the original URL will be used in the future.
- 303 Redirect (See Other): Directs the user to another page after an action has been performed, for example, after placing an order.
- 307 Redirect (Temporary redirect): An improved version of the 302 redirect that maintains the request method (GET or POST).
- 308 Redirect (Permanent redirect): Also maintains the request method during permanent forwarding.
- Meta Refresh: Implemented at the browser level and can delay the redirect for a few seconds.
- DNS Redirect: Used when changing the domain, for example, from example.com to example.org.
Conclusion
Redirects are an important tool for managing traffic and maintaining the functionality of a website. They help retain users, minimize negative experiences, and contribute to preserving SEO ranking. Understanding the different types of redirects and their proper application allows companies to effectively manage their online presence.