3xx Redirection Status Codes
Introduction
3xx Redirection Status Codes indicate that the requested resource has been moved to a different location, and the client should take further action to complete the request. They are essential for guiding users and search engines to the correct resources.
Definitions
Redirection: A technique used in web development that sends users and search engines to a different URL than the one they initially requested.
HTTP Status Code: A three-digit code returned by a server in response to a client's request that indicates the outcome of the request.
Common 3xx Status Codes
- 301 Moved Permanently: Indicates that the resource has been permanently moved to a new URL.
- 302 Found: Indicates that the resource is temporarily located at a different URL.
- 303 See Other: Indicates that the response to the request can be found at another URI using GET.
- 307 Temporary Redirect: Similar to 302, but the client must repeat the request to the new URL using the same method.
- 308 Permanent Redirect: Similar to 301, but the client must repeat the request to the new URL using the same method.
Code Examples
Example: Implementing a 301 Redirect in PHP
Example: Implementing a 302 Redirect in HTML
Best Practices
- Use 301 for permanent moves to ensure search engines update their indexes.
- Use 302 for temporary moves when the resource will return to its original URL.
- Avoid chaining redirects as it can slow down page loading times.
- Test redirects to ensure they are functioning as intended.
- Keep track of redirects to maintain SEO value.
FAQ
What is the difference between 301 and 302 redirect?
301 indicates a permanent move, while 302 indicates a temporary move. A 301 redirect passes the link juice to the new URL, whereas a 302 does not.
How do I know if my redirects are working?
You can use tools like curl or browser developer tools to check the HTTP status code that is returned when accessing the URL.
Can I redirect to a different domain?
Yes, you can redirect to a different domain using any redirect status code, depending on your requirements (301 or 302).