What is 301 Redirect?
A 301 redirect is a method to redirect a web page to a new destination permanently. It is commonly used when a website’s URL structure changes or when content is moved to a different location.
When a user or search engine visits the old URL, the server automatically sends a response code 301, indicating that the page has permanently moved. The user is then redirected to the new URL, ensuring a seamless browsing experience. This redirect also transfers the SEO value from the old URL to the new one, helping to maintain search engine rankings and preserve backlinks.
The speaker in the video discusses the process of 301 redirects and how they affect Google’s ranking of a new URL. They explain that a 301 redirect acts as a signal for canonicalization. That indicates that the destination page should be indexed instead of the original one. However, they highlight that Google considers multiple factors for canonicalization, not just redirects. They suggest:
- Updating internal links,
- Sitemap files,
- And other references to the original page
to point to the new destination to improve this process.
You should use a 301 redirect when you change the URL structure of your website, move content to a new location, or merge two websites. It ensures that visitors and search engines are directed to the correct page and helps maintain search engine rankings and link equity.
To implement a 301 redirect, you need access to your website's server or hosting account. Depending on the server configuration, you can use methods like .htaccess file, server-side scripting, or plugins to set up the redirect. Ensure you follow proper syntax and test the redirect to ensure it functions correctly.
Keeping a 301 redirect in place indefinitely or as long as the old URL receives traffic or backlinks is recommended. Removing a 301 redirect too soon may lead to broken links and losing search engine rankings. Regularly monitor your website's analytics to evaluate the need for ongoing redirects and make adjustments as necessary.
