How to Create a 301 Redirect in cPanel
This guide explains how to create a 301 redirect or domain forwarder in cPanel. Redirects are commonly used when moving a website, forwarding domains, or redirecting old URLs to new pages.
What is a 301 Redirect?
Permanent Redirect
A 301 redirect tells browsers and search engines that a page or domain has permanently moved.
SEO Friendly
301 redirects help preserve SEO rankings when changing domains or URLs.
Automatic Forwarding
Visitors are automatically sent to the new website or page.
Common Uses for Redirects
Redirect Old Domains
Forward an old domain name to your new website.
Redirect HTTP to HTTPS
Automatically send visitors to the secure HTTPS version of your website.
Redirect Old Pages
Redirect outdated URLs to updated pages after a website redesign.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Login to cPanel
Access your hosting account and open cPanel.
Step 2: Open Redirects
Under the Domains section, click Redirects.
Step 3: Choose Redirect Type
Select Permanent (301) from the redirect type dropdown.
Step 4: Enter the Destination URL
Enter the website or page you want visitors redirected to.
https://yournewwebsite.com
Step 5: Create Redirect
Click Add to activate the redirect immediately.
Example
Redirect:
olddomain.com ↓ newdomain.com
Visitors and search engines will automatically be forwarded to the new domain.
Redirect Options Explained
301 Permanent
Best for permanent website moves and SEO preservation.
302 Temporary
Used for short-term redirects where the original page may return later.
Wild Card Redirect
Redirects all files and pages under a domain to the new location.
Common Issues & Fixes
Redirect Loop
Ensure the destination domain is not redirecting back to the original domain.
SSL Errors
Make sure the destination website has a valid SSL certificate installed.
Redirect Not Working
Clear browser cache and check DNS propagation if the domain was recently changed.
Pro Tips
Use HTTPS
Always redirect to the secure HTTPS version of your website where possible.
Update Internal Links
Update website links to point directly to the new URLs instead of relying on redirects.
Keep Redirects Active
Leave redirects active long-term to avoid broken links and SEO issues.
