A 301 redirect is an HTTP status code used to indicate that a requested URL has been permanently moved to a new location. This type of redirect is essential for maintaining SEO rankings and ensuring that users and search engines are directed to the correct webpage. When a 301 redirect is implemented, search engines transfer the link equity, or ranking power, of the old URL to the new one, preserving the page's search engine visibility.
301 redirects are commonly used during website migrations, URL restructuring, or when content is permanently relocated. It is crucial to implement them correctly to avoid negative impacts on search engine rankings and user experience. They are a preferred method over other types of redirects, such as 302 (temporary) redirects, because they communicate the permanent nature of the change to browsers and search engines, ensuring that the new URL is indexed and the old one is phased out from search results.