What is URL Redirect: Full Guide with Examples

Published: 21 Sep 2025

Have you ever clicked a link and ended up on a different page than you expected? That’s not a mistake – it’s called a redirect. Many website owners use redirects to guide visitors from one web address to another. 

Table of Content
  1. What is a URL Redirect?
  2. Why Do Websites Use Redirects?
  3. How Redirects Work with Google Search?
  4. Types of Redirects (With Google’s Perspective)
    1. 301 Redirect (Permanent Redirect)
    2. 302 Redirect (Temporary Redirect)
    3. 307 Redirect (Temporary Redirect, Modern Version)
    4. 308 Redirect (Permanent Redirect, Modern Version)
    5. Meta Refresh Redirect
    6. JavaScript Redirect
    7. Crypto Redirect
    8. Summary of All:
  5. Server-Side vs Client-Side Redirects (Which One to Use?)
    1. Server-Side Redirects (Best Choice)
    2. Client-Side Redirects
  6. How to Set Up Redirects (Step by Step)
    1. Redirects with Apache (.htaccess)
    2. Redirects with NGINX
    3. Redirects with PHP
    4. Redirects in WordPress (Easy Way)
    5. Redirects on Other Platforms
  7. Common Redirect Mistakes to Avoid
    1. Redirect Chains
    2. Redirect Loops
    3. Using 302 Instead of 301
    4. Too Many Redirects on One Site
    5. Redirecting All Pages to Homepage
  8. Best Practices for Redirects
    1. Always Use 301 for Permanent Moves
    2. Use 302 Only for Temporary Changes
    3. Keep Redirects Simple
    4. Match Old Pages to New Relevant Pages
    5. Update Internal Links
    6. Test Redirects Regularly
  9. Redirects and SEO in 2025–2026
    1. Focus on Page Experience
    2. Mobile-First Impact
    3. International & Multi-Language Sites
    4. Monitoring Trends in 2025–2026
    5. Planning Ahead
  10. How to Check and Monitor Redirects?
  11. Final Note
  12. FAQs

In this guide, we will explain what is URL redirect, why websites use it, and the different types of redirects you should know. Everything is kept simple so you can understand how redirects work and when to use them.

So, guys, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig in with me! 

What is a URL Redirect?

A URL redirect is a way to send people from one web address to another. When someone clicks a link or types a URL, the server can guide them to a new page instead of the old one. This helps visitors reach the right content without getting lost.

What is URL Redirect?

Here is how it works in simple steps:

  • A user types or clicks a link.
  • The browser sends a request to the server.
  • The server replies with a redirect and tells the browser the new page.
  • The browser loads that page for the user.

You may have already seen redirects in daily browsing, such as:

  • When a company moves to a new domain but keeps old links working.
  • When you type example.com and it changes to www.example.com.
  • When an online store removes a product page and takes you to a new one.

Why Do Websites Use Redirects?

Websites use redirects to guide visitors to the right page. They help keep both users and search engines on the correct path when pages change. Without redirects, people may see errors or get lost.

Some common reasons are:

  • Moving to a new domain: When a site changes its web address, redirects send visitors from the old URL to the new one.
  • Merging websites: If two sites become one, redirects make sure old links still work.
  • Multiple versions of a page: For example, http://example.com and https://www.example.com can both point to one preferred version.
  • Deleted or outdated pages: Instead of showing a “page not found,” users can be redirected to a related or updated page.
  • Temporary changes: During downtime or special offers, visitors can be redirected to another page for a short time.

Redirects do not just guide people. They also guide Google Search. When Google finds a redirect, it checks the old page and the new page. 

Then it decides which one should be shown in search results.

  • Permanent redirects (301, 308, instant meta refresh): Google sees them as a strong signal. It shows the new page in search results.
  • Temporary redirects (302, 303, 307, delayed meta refresh): Google sees them as a weak signal. It may still keep the old page in search results for some time.
  • Other methods (JavaScript, crypto redirects): Google can read them, but they are less reliable. Use them only if you cannot set up a server-side redirect.

Sometimes, even after a redirect, Google may still show the old URL in search results. This is normal. Over time, as users click and trust the new link, the old one fades away.

Types of Redirects (With Google’s Perspective)

You may have seen codes like 301, 302, or 307. These are not random numbers. They are the types of redirects that websites use. Each type has a special purpose.

The main types are:

  • 301 Redirect
  • 302 Redirect
  • 303 Redirect
  • 307 Redirect
  • 308 Redirect
  • Meta Refresh Redirect
  • JavaScript Redirect
  • Crypto Redirect

Let’s cover them all in detail.

1. 301 Redirect (Permanent Redirect)

A 301 redirect tells browsers and Google that a page has moved to a new URL permanently.

When to use:

  • When you change your website domain.
  • When you merge two pages into one.
  • When you delete a page and want to point it to another.

Google’s view: Google passes most of the SEO value (called “link equity”) to the new page. This means your search ranking is mostly safe.

Example: oldpage.com/about → newpage.com/about

2. 302 Redirect (Temporary Redirect)

A 302 redirect tells browsers and Google that the page has moved only for a short time.

When to use:

  • When you are testing a new page but don’t want to lose SEO value.
  • When a page is under maintenance.

Google’s view: Google usually keeps the old URL in search results, not the new one, because the move is not permanent.

Example: shop.com/sale → shop.com/sale-2025 (only for a season).

3. 307 Redirect (Temporary Redirect, Modern Version)

307 is the updated version of 302 in HTTP/1.1. It also means the move is temporary.

  • When to use: When you want to be very clear that the page move is only for a short time.
  • Google’s view: Google treats 307 the same way as 302. The old page stays in search results.
  • Example: example.com/login → example.com/new-login (only for testing).

4. 308 Redirect (Permanent Redirect, Modern Version)

308 is the modern version of 301. It also means the page has moved permanently.

  • When to use: Same cases as 301, but if your server supports HTTP/1.1 or higher.
  • Google’s view: Works like 301. Google passes SEO value to the new URL.
  • Example: blog.com/2024-news → blog.com/2025-news

5. Meta Refresh Redirect

A redirect set inside the HTML page itself, often with a delay.

When to use:

  • Not recommended for normal use.
  • Sometimes used if you cannot set server redirects.

Google’s view: Google sees it, but it is not the best way. It may confuse users and is slower than other redirects.

Example: A page that shows “You will be moved in 5 seconds” and then goes to another URL.

6. JavaScript Redirect

A redirect done using JavaScript code inside the page.

When to use:

  • Usually not the first choice.
  • Used only if you cannot control the server or HTML.

Google’s view: Google can follow JavaScript redirects, but they are less reliable. Sometimes search engines may not pass full SEO value.

Example: A script in the page that changes the browser location to another URL.

7. Crypto Redirect

A less common redirect method that hides the target URL using encrypted or coded links.

When to use:

  • Rarely used in normal websites.
  • Sometimes used in tracking systems or special apps.

Google’s view: Google does not recommend it. It may look suspicious and can hurt trust.

Example: A redirect link that looks random like site.com/ab12xY9 but leads to another page.

Summary of All:

Quick overview of each type: 

  • 301 → Permanent (best for SEO).
  • 302 → Temporary.
  • 307 → Temporary (modern).
  • 308 → Permanent (modern).
  • Meta Refresh → Works but slow and not user-friendly.
  • JavaScript Redirect → Google can see it, but not the best option.
  • Crypto Redirect → Rare, not good for SEO, avoid for normal websites. 

Server-Side vs Client-Side Redirects (Which One to Use?)

Redirects can be done in two ways: server-side and client-side. Think of it like this:

  • Server-side: The website itself tells you the new address before the page even opens.
  • Client-side: The page loads first, then it pushes you to the new address.

1. Server-Side Redirects (Best Choice)

This is the best and safest way. It happens directly on the website’s server, so it is fast. Google also trusts it more for SEO.

When do people use it?

  • When a website moves to a new address.
  • When old pages are removed.
  • When two websites become one.

Simple Example in real life: You go to “oldpage.com,” but the website instantly takes you to “newpage.com” before loading anything.

If possible, always use this method.

2. Client-Side Redirects

This is a weaker option. Here, the page opens first, then it tells your browser: “Wait, go to this new page instead.” It is slower, and Google does not like it as much.

Types of Client-Side Redirects:

  • Meta Refresh: The page says, “You will move to the new page in 5 seconds.”
  • JavaScript Redirect: A small script inside the page pushes you to another page.
  • Crypto Redirect: A special coded link hides the real page, often used in tracking. Google does not recommend it.

Use client-side redirects only if you cannot set server-side redirects.

Easy Summary:

  • Server-side = best, fast, SEO-friendly.
  • Client-side = slower, less SEO-friendly, only use if no other choice.

How to Set Up Redirects (Step by Step)

There are different ways to create redirects. Which method you use depends on your server or platform. Let’s go through the common options:

Redirects with Apache (.htaccess)

If your site is on Apache server, you can use the .htaccess file.

  • For a permanent redirect (301), write: Redirect 301 /old-page https://example.com/new-page
  • For a temporary redirect (302), write: Redirect 302 /old-page https://example.com/new-page

This tells both browsers and Google where to go when someone visits the old page.

Redirects with NGINX

If your site uses NGINX, you can set rules in the server settings.

  • Permanent redirect (301): return 301 https://example.com/new-page
  • Temporary redirect (302): return 302 https://example.com/new-page

It works the same way as Apache but in a different setup.

Redirects with PHP

If your site runs on PHP, you can place a small script at the top of your page.

  • Permanent redirect (301): set HTTP/1.1 to “301 Moved Permanently” and point to the new URL.
  • Temporary redirect (302): set HTTP/1.1 to “302 Found” and point to the new URL.

This method is less common today, but still works.

Redirects in WordPress (Easy Way)

If you don’t want to touch code, use a plugin. Popular options are:

  • Redirection plugin
  • Yoast SEO Premium
  • Rank Math

Here you just enter the old link and the new link. The plugin will do the redirect for you.

Redirects on Other Platforms

Some platforms already have redirect tools:

  • Shopify: has a built-in redirect option in its dashboard.
  • Blogger: lets you create custom redirects.
  • Wix and Squarespace: both provide redirect settings.

Always check the help section of your platform for “redirects.”

Quick Tip:

  • If you are not technical → use plugins or platform settings.
  • If you are technical → server-side redirects (Apache or NGINX) are the best choice for SEO.

Common Redirect Mistakes to Avoid

Redirects are useful, but if you use them the wrong way, they can hurt your SEO. Here are the most common mistakes:

Redirect Chains

  • When one redirect leads to another, and then another.
  • Example: Page A → Page B → Page C.
  • This makes your site slow and confuses search engines.
  • Fix: Always point redirects directly to the final page.

Redirect Loops

  • When a page keeps redirecting back to itself.
  • Example: Page A → Page B → Page A (again).
  • This causes an endless loop, and the page never loads.
  • Fix: Double-check redirect settings to avoid circles.

Using 302 Instead of 301

  • Some people use a temporary redirect (302) when the move is permanent.
  • Search engines won’t pass full SEO value in this case.
  • Fix: Use 301 for permanent moves.

Too Many Redirects on One Site

  • If your site has redirects everywhere, it slows things down.
  • Example: every page taking a detour before reaching the final URL.
  • Fix: Clean up old redirects and keep only the needed ones.

Redirecting All Pages to Homepage

  • Some site owners redirect every old page to the homepage.
  • This confuses visitors and search engines.
  • Fix: Redirect old pages to the most relevant page, not just the homepage.

Best Practices for Redirects

Redirects can be safe and helpful if you follow the right rules. Here are some best practices:

Always Use 301 for Permanent Moves

  • If a page has moved forever, use a 301 redirect.
  • Google understands this as a permanent move.
  • It also passes most of the SEO value to the new page.

Use 302 Only for Temporary Changes

  • A 302 redirect is for short use only.
  • Example: a seasonal offer or a test page.
  • Don’t forget to remove it or change it to 301 later.

Keep Redirects Simple

  • One redirect is enough.
  • Don’t create chains like Page A → Page B → Page C.
  • Google likes clean and direct redirects.

Match Old Pages to New Relevant Pages

  • Don’t just send all old pages to the homepage.
  • Example: an old blog about SEO should redirect to a new SEO blog, not the home.
  • This helps visitors and search engines understand your site better.
  • If you move a page, also update links inside your site.
  • Example: menu links, blog links, or footer links.
  • This avoids unnecessary redirects.

Test Redirects Regularly

  • Check your redirects with tools like Google Search Console.
  • Make sure no broken pages or wrong redirects exist.
  • Fix issues early before they hurt your traffic.

Redirects and SEO in 2025–2026

Redirects will remain important for SEO in 2025 and 2026, but search engines are becoming smarter. How you set up redirects now can affect your rankings in the near future.

Focus on Page Experience

  • Google now measures page speed, mobile-friendliness, and user experience more than ever.
  • Too many redirects can slow pages and hurt rankings.
  • Keep your redirects simple to improve performance.

Mobile-First Impact

  • Google indexes mobile pages first.
  • Redirects must work perfectly on mobile devices.
  • Broken or slow mobile redirects can reduce visibility.

International & Multi-Language Sites

  • Sites with multiple languages or regions need correct redirect handling.
  • Wrong redirects can confuse search engines and users.
  • Combine redirects with hreflang tags for clarity.
  • Search engines will give more signals for user trust and safety.
  • Redirects from unsafe or low-quality pages may not pass full SEO value.
  • Regularly audit redirects to maintain credibility.

Planning Ahead

  • Think long-term before setting redirects.
  • Avoid temporary hacks that may break in future updates.
  • Use clean, clear, and fast redirects to stay ahead in SEO.

How to Check and Monitor Redirects?

Guys, this is the last thing you need to know about checking and monitoring redirects:

  • Use online tools like Redirect Checker to see where a URL goes.
  • Check Google Search Console for redirect issues.
  • Type old URLs in a browser to test manually.
  • Test redirects on both desktop and mobile devices.
  • Monitor redirects regularly to catch broken links.
  • Keep a list of old and new URLs for easy reference.

Final Note 

In this guide, we covered everything about URL redirects. You learned:

  • What is a URL redirect and how it works.
  • Why websites use redirects.
  • Different types of redirects like 301, 302, 307, 308, meta refresh, JavaScript, and crypto.
  • Server-side vs. client-side redirects and which one is best.
  • How to set up redirects.
  • Common mistakes to avoid and best practices for SEO.
  • How to check and monitor redirects.

From my experience as an SEO expert, and following Google’s official guidelines, server-side permanent redirects (301/308) are the safest and most SEO-friendly option. Always keep your redirects simple, fast, and relevant.

That’s it, guys! Now you can use redirects confidently to help your users and improve your site’s SEO. Happy redirecting!

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about URL redirecting.

What does a redirect URL mean?

A redirect URL is a web address that automatically moves users from one page to another. It is useful when a page has moved or changed, for example, when it takes you from an old address to a new one.

What is an example of a redirect URL?

An example is when a website changes its domain name, like from “www.oldsite.com” to “www.newsite.com.” The old site automatically redirects users to the new one, ensuring that they find the updated content without errors.

Why do we need to redirect a URL?

Redirects are used to update web addresses, fix broken links, and maintain SEO rankings. They ensure users and search engines find the correct page and help improve the user experience by avoiding errors.

How do we redirect a URL?

URLs are redirected using HTTP status codes like 301 or 302. This can be done through server settings or coding. For example, you might use an .htaccess file or JavaScript to set up the redirect.

What is the difference between a URL and a redirect?

A URL is the address of a specific webpage. A redirect is a tool that sends users from one URL to another. The URL is the destination, while the redirect manages the journey.

Which redirection URL is best for SEO?

A 301 redirect is best for permanent changes as it helps transfer SEO value to the new URL. A 302 redirect is suitable for temporary changes or tests. Choosing the right type depends on whether the change is permanent or temporary.

What is the risk of using URL redirects?

Misconfigured redirects can lead to broken links or incorrect pages, harming user experience and reducing website traffic. It’s important to set up redirects carefully and check them regularly.

Can URL redirects affect my website’s SEO?

Yes, redirects can impact SEO. Properly set up, they help maintain search engine rankings by transferring link value. However, poorly managed redirects can cause SEO problems like lost rankings or broken links.

How can I check if my redirects are working?

Use tools like Google Search Console or SEO plugins to check redirects. You can also manually test by entering old URLs and seeing if they go to the new pages. Regular checks help ensure redirects are working correctly.

What should I avoid when setting up URL redirects?

Avoid creating unnecessary redirect chains, where one redirect leads to another. Also, don’t use the wrong type of redirect for your situation. Ensure you update all internal links to match new URLs to avoid confusion and errors.

Ghulam Abbas Avatar
Ghulam Abbas

Engr Ghulam Abbas is one of the Best SEO Expert in Pakistan. He is teaching SEO Course with practical approach to thousands of students in the world. Now, he is also handling this SmSEO.com to share his practical knowledge with everyone.

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