Redirect Rule Generator: A Practical Guide
Use Redirect Rule Generator to prepare a basic Apache-style permanent redirect from an old path to a new URL. The generated rule is a configuration snippet; it does not change your server until installed in a compatible configuration.
How to Use Redirect Rule Generator
- Enter Old path beginning with /.
- Enter the absolute New URL.
- Select Generate rule.
- Apply through your server’s supported workflow and test the response status and destination.
A 301 Rule Has Server-Specific Semantics
The output uses Redirect 301 syntax associated with Apache mod_alias. It is not an Nginx configuration and should not be pasted into an unrelated server format.
Path matching can affect descendants as well as the exact path. Existing rewrite rules, proxy settings and application redirects can interact with it. Test the old URL and nearby paths to detect loops or unintended redirects.
Worked Example
Moving /old-guide/ to https://example.com/new-guide/ calls for a rule linking those locations. Confirm that the destination does not send the visitor back to the old address.
If the old path has child pages, test them separately rather than assuming only the exact URL matches.
Inspect the destination URL: use the URL Parser.
Align canonical signals: use the Canonical Tag Generator.
Checks and Common Mistakes
- Back up server configuration before editing.
- Avoid redirect chains and loops.
- Use the actual server syntax.
- Do not redirect unrelated content solely for traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this install the redirect?
No. It outputs a rule for you to deploy through the appropriate hosting configuration.
Can I use it on Nginx?
Not as-is; Nginx uses different directives.
How do I verify it?
Check the HTTP status, Location header and final destination, including any trailing-slash behavior.
Related Tools for the Next Step
- URL Parser: Inspect the destination URL.
- Canonical Tag Generator: Align canonical signals.
- Meta Refresh Redirect Generator: Understand a different browser-side redirect method.
- XML Sitemap Generator: Update your preferred URL list.
Reference
Further reading: Apache mod_alias Redirect directive.