Decoding Google Redirect Myths

Redirecting URLs is a technique used to change the website’s existing URL to a different one, signalling to website visitors and Google search that a certain page on the website has been moved to a new location. It’s noticed when two URLs refer to the same website page.

There are two types of redirects: those that send the user to specific status code URLs, such as the famous 404 Page Not Found status code, and those that use the status code 200 for successful URL redirection.

Google may treat the different redirect types differently, with some redirect types being preferred over others for better technical SEO page ranking.

Google recently addressed common misconceptions about different types of redirects. In a video for Google Search Central and during a related conversation on Twitter, John Mueller, the Google Search Advocate, clarified how Google handles various redirect methods.

He debunked the myth that the choice between a 301 or 302 redirect impacts PageRank, stating that it doesn't matter as long as the technically correct redirect type is used. Mueller also emphasized that alternatives like 307 and 308 are valid options. He shed light on the effects of redirects and HTTP status codes, dispelling myths and empowering SEO experts to base their strategies on solid knowledge.

The video ignited a discussion on whether redirect types truly affect the page rank or not.

Google’s Attempt to Debunk the Myth: Redirect Types Dont Affect Page Rank

The video starts with Mueller explaining whether it is better to use 301 or 302 redirects to increase PageRank which is a highly discussed topic in SEO. His response was to use the redirect type that suited the situation.?

“The good news is it doesn’t matter. Use the technical correct redirect type.” Mueller said. He added that other redirect types like 307 and 308, are compelling choices as the Google search engine has been dealing with redirects for a long time. If anyone still has inquiries, they can check out Google’s documentation on HTTP status codes and other related videos on Google Search Central.

Temporary Redirects have no Fixed Time Frame

An active user in the conversation, Lyndon NA, asked Mueller about the temporal situation of 302 and 307 redirects. Mueller’s answer to the post is that there is no fixed time which leaves the SEO professionals in their usual waiting state to see what will occur after removing or updating a redirect. ?

Permanent Redirects are Reversible

It was believed by many SEO professionals that permanent redirects cannot be reversed, but Mueller surprised them by stating that this is actually a myth.

“Even a permanent redirect is not permanent, it's just a question of your time horizon,” Mueller said. He is letting them know that permanent redirects are not permanent. SEO professionals have to be careful of the permanence of some SEO decisions from now on.

Temporary SEO is Still Relevant

In response to this recent post, some individuals in the discussion are beginning to question the significance of technical SEO in todays web development. Yigit Konur, another relevant participant in the conversation, responded to the Google post by stating that SEO is becoming less important. Mueller promptly dispels this notion by asserting that SEO remains and will continue to serve as the foundation for everything constructed on the open web.

Explaining the Effects of Redirect

The point of this conversation was to clarify all the myths surrounding redirect types and HTTP status codes for SEO professionals to use this information and strategize according based on facts instead of mere assumptions and myths.

Conclusion

It is always beneficial when industry experts engage with and address community concerns, providing clarity and insights into future developments. Google Search's Mueller tackled misconceptions around redirect types and HTTP codes and emphasized the continued importance of technical SEO, even with recent advancements.

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