Definition
A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect that automatically sends visitors and search engines from one URL to another. When implemented, it tells browsers and search engines that a page has permanently moved to a new location, transferring most of the original page's search engine ranking power to the new URL. This HTTP status code is essential for maintaining SEO value when pages are moved, deleted, or when website structures change. Unlike temporary redirects, 301 redirects signal that the change is permanent, prompting search engines to update their indexes and pass link equity to the destination page.
Use Cases & Examples
Website Restructuring and URL Changes
When websites undergo redesigns or restructuring, 301 redirects ensure visitors can still find content that has moved to new locations. For example, if a blog post moves from “/blog/2023/article-title/” to “/articles/article-title/”, a 301 redirect ensures anyone with the old link automatically reaches the new page without encountering a broken link or 404 error.
Domain Changes and Site Migrations
Businesses changing domain names use 301 redirects to transfer their SEO value from the old domain to the new one. When migrating from “oldsite.com” to “newsite.com”, 301 redirects ensure that all the search engine rankings, bookmarks, and external links pointing to the old domain continue to work and benefit the new domain.
Content Consolidation and Cleanup
Website owners use 301 redirects when merging similar pages or removing outdated content. If multiple pages cover the same topic, redirecting the less important pages to the main comprehensive page helps consolidate ranking signals and improves user experience by directing visitors to the best available content.