301 Moved Permanently — Causes & Fix
HTTP 301 (Moved Permanently) means the requested resource has permanently moved to a new URL, and clients should use that new URL from now on.
- Applies to
- Any website or web server (HTTP standard)
- Time to fix
- 5–30 minutes
What it means
It is set intentionally when a page/site is permanently relocated (new domain, new path, HTTP→HTTPS). Problems arise from redirect chains, loops, or pointing to the wrong target. HTTP status 301 is defined in RFC 9110 (HTTP Semantics). This is a redirection (3xx) status — the client needs to take an additional step to complete the request.
Symptoms
- The browser is redirected to a different URL
- Old bookmarks/links land on a new page
How to fix it
- 1
Confirm the redirect target
1. Check that the 301 points to the correct new URL. 2. Avoid chains (301 → 301 → …) — redirect straight to the final URL.
- 2
Fix loops
1. Make sure the target doesn't redirect back, which creates a loop. 2. Update internal links to the new URL so the redirect isn't needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is 301 good or bad for SEO?
A 301 is the correct, SEO-friendly way to move a page permanently — it passes ranking signals to the new URL. Just avoid long redirect chains.
Last updated July 20, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.