302 Redirect

302 Redirect Definition

A 302 redirect is a temporary server instruction that sends users and search engines from one URL to another without signaling a permanent change. It keeps the original URL indexed in search engines and does not pass full link equity to the temporary destination. 302 redirects are ideal for short-term promotions, testing, or maintenance.

How 302 Redirect Works

• Server returns a 302 status code with the target URL.
  
  
• When users access the original URL:
  
  
  
  • They are temporarily sent to the new page.
    
    
  • Search engines continue to recognize the original URL as primary.
    
    
• Common implementation methods:
  
  
  
  • Server-side configuration (Apache, Nginx)
    
    
  • CMS tools or plugins
    
    
  • JavaScript redirects for specific use cases
    
    
• Often used when the change is not intended to be permanent.
  
  

Example of 302 Redirect

An e-commerce site redirects users from its homepage to a promotional landing page during a weekend sale using a 302 redirect. Once the promotion ends, users are routed back to the original homepage.

Why 302 Redirect Matters in Advertising

• Enables temporary URL changes without losing SEO rankings
  
  
• Supports short-term promotions, maintenance, or testing
  
  
• Maintains search engine indexing of the original page
  
  
• Prevents unintended SEO consequences during temporary adjustments