Imagine a scenario where you go to a restaurant only to find this message at the entrance, “We have shifted to number 17, just two blocks away’’. The message aims to direct you to the new address and ensure that you do not move to a different restaurant. Domain forwarding works on the same principle wherein website traffic or visitors are redirected to a different domain because of a change in a site’s address and other reasons.

It is also important to know that domain forwarding is also known as domain redirect or URL forwarding in the tech space. This article explores domain forwarding and its type and also highlights the benefits of domain name forwarding.

Let’s start by understanding what we mean by domain forwarding.

What Exactly is Domain Forwarding

Domain Forwarding, also known as URL forwarding, is used to direct traffic from an existing primary domain (source website) to a rebranded or different site (target website). It ensures a consistent flow of traffic to the target website without any repercussions on search engine rankings and user experience while maintaining branding consistency.

Now, let’s move on to learn more about the different types of domain forwarding.

Types of Domain Redirects

We hope you have grasped what domain forwarding is. Now, let’s explore the different types of domain redirects and how they are typically used in the online world.

Before we dive deeper, it is worth noting that domain redirects are classified into two; permanent and temporary.

  • 301 Redirect

A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect, typically used while shifting your website from one domain to the other. In this scenario, the aim is to guide your visitors to the new website without hurting your site’s search engine discoverability and maintaining SEO.

As mentioned earlier, it is best to use a 301 redirect when you switch your site’s domain. Additionally, you can also implement a 301 redirect if you are looking to merge two websites and redirect older URLs to new pages.

  • 302 Temporary Redirect

Unlike a 301 redirect, a 302 redirect is temporary. It essentially means that you are redirecting your website visitors to a different page temporarily. A 302 redirect is generally implemented when a website is under maintenance, undergoing significant updates, or server migration. Users redirected to the temporary page may find that the page has disappeared once the original page is up and running.

Benefits of Domain Forwarding

After getting familiar with the different types of domain redirects, it is a good time to explore the benefits of domain forwarding and learn why it is so important in the website realm.

Here are a few glaring benefits of domain forwarding.

  • Consolidated Brand Presence Online

Many brands and businesses use multiple domains due to various factors including presence in different locations, marketing initiatives, and branding. For instance, multinational conglomerates like Amazon, Nike, Apple, etc use multiple top-level domains to establish their digital presence across the globe. Domain Forwarding allows companies to maintain a hassle-free consolidated online presence.

  • Redirect Traffic to the New Domain

We know that brands do not – for a makeover regularly. But, when they do, they often change all the major elements including website, messaging, logo, communication, tonality, and more. Additionally, website name forwarding is an excellent solution for companies looking to enter new markets or rebrand their image. It ensures continuity and maintains all the links to brand recognition.

  • Redirect Traffic to a Specific Page

Businesses, well at least a majority of them aren’t stagnant. They evolve as they grow tending to the dynamic market conditions, consumer behaviour, and trends. As a result, they may opt to tweak their website from time to time or even build a new one depending on their requirements. Website forwarding allows them to redirect traffic from old and dated links to the new and revamped pages for specific products and services.

Setting Up Domain Name Forwarding

We have touched upon what is domain forwarding and its benefits. But, how is this knowledge of any use when you lack the technical know-how on how to go about the entire process? This section offers step-by-step insights into how to redirect a domain to another domain and walks through the complete process.

Here’s how you set up domain name forwarding like a pro.

  • Access Domain Settings

The first step is to log in to your domain manager and access your domain’s settings. Pick the domain you wish to redirect in case you own multiple domains.

  • DNS Settings

Find your Domain Name System settings and find the domain or URL forwarding option.

  • Choose Redirect Type

We have mentioned the different types of redirects earlier. Choose the redirect type depending on whether it is a permanent (301) or temporary (302) redirect.

  • Enter Destination URL

Find the Forward to Domain text box and enter the destination URL. As the name suggests, the destination URL is the new address where you want to redirect your traffic.

  • Update or Save Changes

Click on update or save changes to ensure all the changes reflect as intended.

Wrap Up

Congratulations, you have learned how domain forwarding works, the different types of redirects, the benefits of website forwarding, and most importantly, the technical know-how – domain or URL redirects.

While the process is – straightforward and self-explanatory, it is important to ensure you have entered the details correctly. Additionally, before you initiate the process, you should have a clear objective and understand the reason behind moving your domain (rebranding, consolidating online presence, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does forwarding a domain do?

Domain forwarding redirects a website’s traffic from the source domain to the target domain.

What is the difference between forwarding and redirecting a domain?

While domain forwarding is a broader term used to direct traffic from one domain to the other, redirecting refers to specific redirection using HTTPS status codes.

Does domain forwarding affect email?

Yes, domain forwarding can impact email marketing and email services linked to a domain.

How do I know if domain forwarding is working?

You can check whether your domain forwarding is working by testing whether your implemented changes are redirecting you to the intended destination.

If you have any queries or suggestions feel free to send an email on [email protected]