How to Set Up a 302 Redirect
A 302 Redirect is a temporary redirect that sends users and search engines from one URL to another for a short period of time. Unlike 301, it does not pass full SEO value because Google understands that the original page will come back. It is useful when you’re testing, updating, or fixing a webpage without permanently moving it.
What Is a 302 Redirect?
A 302 Redirect tells search engines:
“This page is temporarily moved. Keep indexing the original page.”
This means Google keeps the old URL in search results and does not transfer full SEO authority to the new URL.
Why 302 Redirects Are Important
302 redirects play a big role in testing and temporary changes. They help you:
✔ Keep SEO ranking on your original page
Because the move is temporary, Google continues ranking the old URL.
✔ Test new pages safely
You can send visitors to a test page without affecting the SEO of the main URL.
✔ Run special offers or seasonal campaigns
Perfect for temporary sales pages, festival offers, or new product pages.
✔ Fix pages temporarily
If a page is under maintenance, a 302 redirect helps keep users engaged.
When Should You Use a 302 Redirect?
Use a 302 redirect when:
- You’re testing a new page layout or content
- You’re updating or redesigning a live page
- You want to temporarily divert traffic to a new offer
- A page is under short-term maintenance
- You’re A/B testing landing pages
- You are troubleshooting URL or server issues
Avoid using a 302 for permanent moves — that’s what 301 redirects are for.
How to Set Up a 302 Redirect
1. Using the .htaccess File (Apache Websites)
Add this code to your .htaccess file:
Redirect a single page temporarily
Redirect 302 /old-page https://www.example.com/new-temporary-page
Temporary domain redirect
Redirect 302 / https://temporary.example.com/
2. Using cPanel Redirect Tool
- Login to cPanel
- Go to Domains → Redirects
- Choose Temporary (302)
- Enter the old URL
- Enter the temporary URL
- Click Add Redirect
This is ideal for beginners.
3. Using WordPress Plugins
If you’re using WordPress, plugins make it easy:
- Redirection Plugin
- Rank Math
- Yoast SEO Premium
Example using Redirection Plugin:
- Install and open Redirection
- Enter the old URL
- Enter the temporary URL
- Select 302 – Temporary Redirect
- Save
4. Using Nginx Server
Add this line to your Nginx configuration:
rewrite ^/old-page$ https://example.com/new-page redirect;
Nginx uses redirect instead of permanent.
Example of a 302 Redirect
Imagine you are updating your blog page:
❌ Old page (under maintenance):
https://example.com/seo-guide
You set up a temporary version:
✅ Temporary page:
https://example.com/seo-guide-temp
Your code will be:
Redirect 302 /seo-guide https://example.com/seo-guide-temp
Once the main page is ready, you remove the redirect.
How to Check a 302 Redirect
Use tools like:
- Redirect Checker
- Screaming Frog
- Browser inspect tool
- Google Search Console URL Inspection
You should see:
302 Found or 302 Moved Temporarily