HTTP Redirects
HTTP redirects are a mechanism in the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) that instructs a client (such as a web browser) to automatically navigate from one URL to another. They are implemented using HTTP status codes in the 3xx range, with common examples including 301 (Moved Permanently) and 302 (Found/Temporary Redirect). This technique is widely used for URL management, website restructuring, and handling moved or updated content.
Developers should learn and use HTTP redirects to ensure seamless user experiences and maintain SEO rankings when URLs change, such as during website migrations or domain switches. They are essential for implementing canonical URLs, handling outdated links, and managing traffic flow in web applications, APIs, and content management systems.