Synonyms: Permanent URL redirect HTTP 301 status
A 301 Permanent Redirect is an HTTP status code that tells browsers and search engines that a requested webpage has been permanently moved to a new URL. When a 301 redirect is set up, anyone trying to access the old URL is automatically redirected to the new one. This ensures that visitors and search engines reach the correct content even if the original link has changed.
The “permanent” part means that the change is intended to last indefinitely. A 301 redirect is crucial for SEO because it passes nearly all of the original page’s link equity (ranking power) to the new URL, helping to maintain or even improve the website’s search engine rankings after the change.
Common reasons to use a 301 redirect include:
- Changing the URL structure: When a website’s structure or domain changes, 301 redirects ensure users and search engines can still find the content.
- Merging Content: If you consolidate multiple pages into one, a 301 redirect from the old pages to the new one avoids broken links.
- Moving to a New Domain: If a website rebrands with a new domain, 301 redirects can forward visitors from the old domain to the new one.
By using a 301 permanent redirect, site owners can avoid traffic loss and maintain a smooth user experience during any changes to the website’s structure.