Redirect (301 vs 302)
301 redirects are permanent and transfer SEO value, while 302 redirects are temporary and do not pass link equity.
Definition
A redirect is a technique used to send both users and search engines from one URL to another. The two most common types of redirects are 301 and 302 redirects. A 301 redirect indicates that a page has permanently moved to a new URL. This is crucial for preserving SEO value, as search engines will transfer the ranking power from the old URL to the new one.
On the other hand, a 302 redirect signals that a page has temporarily moved. This type of redirect does not pass the same link equity as a 301 redirect, making it less favorable for SEO when a permanent change is intended.
Why It Matters
Choosing the correct type of redirect is critical for maintaining SEO rankings. Misusing 302 redirects when a 301 is warranted can lead to a loss of search visibility and traffic.
Example
For instance, if a site rebrands and moves from http://www.oldsite.com to http://www.newsite.com, a 301 redirect should be set up to ensure that users and search engines are directed to the new site while preserving SEO value.
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