Redirects send visitors from one URL to another. Common uses include moving a site to a new domain, forcing a canonical hostname or redirecting an old page after a restructure.
Step by step
- Decide whether the move is permanent (normally 301) or temporary (302).
- Use cPanel Redirects or your application/server configuration, but avoid configuring the same redirect in several places.
- Enter the source path and exact destination including https:// where required.
- Test the source URL in a private browser window.
- Check for redirect chains and loops, especially when HTTPS or www redirects already exist.
Important
A redirect loop occurs when two rules keep sending the browser back to each other. Keep the redirect design simple and record existing .htaccess rules before editing them.
Checks and troubleshooting
Use a header/status checker when troubleshooting. For a permanent site move, update internal links and application URLs as well as adding the redirect.