Best Practices

Follow these best practices for optimal redirect management.

URL Structure

Keep URLs Short and Descriptive

  • Use human-readable paths
  • Avoid long, complex URLs
  • Include relevant keywords when possible

Consistent Naming

  • Use lowercase letters
  • Replace spaces with hyphens
  • Be consistent with naming patterns

Examples

Good: /product-updates
Good: /user-guide-installation
Bad: /Product_Updates_v2_final
Bad: /long-and-complicated-url-with-many-words

Redirect Types

301 Redirects (Permanent)

  • Use for moved content
  • Best for SEO
  • Browsers cache these redirects

302 Redirects (Temporary)

  • Use for temporary changes
  • A/B testing
  • Maintenance pages

Domain Strategy

www vs non-www

  • Choose one format and be consistent
  • Set up canonical domain
  • Redirect one to the other

HTTPS Always

  • Always use HTTPS for destinations
  • Set up proper SSL certificates
  • Redirect HTTP to HTTPS

Bulk Operations

Plan Before Importing

  • Review CSV file format
  • Check for duplicate paths
  • Test with small batches first

CSV Format Tips

  • Use UTF-8 encoding
  • Include headers
  • Validate URLs before import

Performance Considerations

Caching

  • 301 redirects are cached by browsers
  • Consider cache duration
  • Test redirect performance

Monitor Impact

  • Check analytics regularly
  • Monitor 404 errors
  • Track conversion rates

SEO Best Practices

  • Use 301 redirects for moved pages
  • Update internal links
  • Inform search engines

Avoid Redirect Chains

  • Don't chain multiple redirects
  • Point directly to final destination
  • Regular audit redirect paths

Security Considerations

Input Validation

  • Validate all user inputs
  • Sanitize redirect paths
  • Prevent open redirects

Rate Limiting

  • Implement reasonable rate limits
  • Monitor for abuse
  • Use CAPTCHA when needed

Maintenance

Regular Audits

  • Check for broken redirects
  • Review analytics data
  • Update outdated information

Documentation

  • Document redirect rules
  • Note temporary redirects
  • Track changes over time

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Circular Redirects

  • Check for redirect loops
  • Test all redirect paths
  • Use automated testing

Overly Broad Wildcards

  • Be specific with patterns
  • Test wildcard behavior
  • Consider edge cases

Forgetting Mobile

  • Test on mobile devices
  • Consider mobile-specific URLs
  • Monitor mobile analytics

Need Help?