What is a 302 redirect?

A 302 redirect is an HTTP status code used to indicate that a page or resource has been temporarily moved to a different URL. Unlike a 301 redirect, which is a permanent redirect, a 302 redirect is intended to signal that the change is temporary and that the original URL should still be used for future requests.

### Key Characteristics of a 302 Redirect:

1. **Temporary Nature:** The 302 redirect informs search engines and users that the move is only temporary. The original URL should remain valid and be used again in the future.

2. **Search Engine Implications:** Search engines treat a 302 redirect differently from a 301 redirect. A 302 redirect typically does not pass as much of the original page's SEO value to the new URL, because search engines are expected to continue indexing the original URL. This can impact how link equity and rankings are transferred.

3. **URL Retention:** Browsers and search engines are expected to retain the original URL and use it for future requests, even after the temporary redirection is in place.

### Common Uses for a 302 Redirect:

1. **Site Maintenance:** When a page or site is temporarily down for maintenance or updates, a 302 redirect can be used to guide visitors to a temporary page or an alternative URL.

   - **Example:** Redirecting `www.example.com/maintenance` to `www.example.com/temporary-maintenance-page` during a site update.

2. **Testing New Pages:** If you want to test a new page or feature but don't want to change the original URL permanently, a 302 redirect can be used to route users to the new page temporarily.

   - **Example:** Redirecting `www.example.com/old-page` to `www.example.com/new-page` during A/B testing.

3. **Seasonal Promotions:** For temporary promotions or events, you might use a 302 redirect to direct users to a promotional page while the event is active. After the event ends, the original URL is restored.

   - **Example:** Redirecting `www.example.com/sale` to `www.example.com/special-promotion` during a seasonal sale.

4. **User Location-Based Redirects:** When serving different content based on user location or device type, a 302 redirect can temporarily route users to appropriate content without changing the main URL structure.

   - **Example:** Redirecting users from `www.example.com` to `www.example.com/us` based on their geographical location.

### Implementation Tips:

- **Proper Use:** Use a 302 redirect only for temporary changes. For permanent moves, a 301 redirect is more appropriate as it passes SEO value and signals that the change is lasting.

- **Testing and Monitoring:** Ensure that the 302 redirect is properly implemented and monitor its performance. Verify that the original URL remains indexed and that users are correctly redirected.

- **Avoid Overuse:** Excessive use of 302 redirects can cause confusion for both users and search engines. Use them sparingly and ensure that they are implemented only when necessary.

### Example of a 302 Redirect:

```http
HTTP/1.1 302 Found
Location: http://www.example.com/new-page
```

In this example, when a user requests the original URL, they are temporarily redirected to `http://www.example.com/new-page`, and the original URL is expected to be used again in the future.