HTTP 302
HTTP 302 (Found) is a temporary redirect status code that sends users and bots to a different URL while keeping the original URL intact.
Reviewed by Alexander Yarovenko · Updated: 2026-06-21
What is HTTP 302?
HTTP 302 Found (also called a 302 redirect) is an HTTP status code that tells browsers and search engine crawlers that a resource has temporarily moved to a new URL. Unlike a permanent 301 redirect, a 302 signals that the original URL should be preserved and the change is not permanent.
302 vs 301: Key Difference
| Code | Meaning | SEO Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 301 | Permanently moved | Transfers most link equity to new URL |
| 302 | Temporarily moved | Original URL keeps its ranking signals |
When to Use HTTP 302
- A/B testing a new page design without affecting SEO signals
- Redirecting users during site maintenance
- Seasonal promotions (e.g., redirect /summer-sale to this year's promotion)
- Geo-targeted redirects when the decision is dynamic
SEO Considerations
Using a 302 when you intend a permanent redirect is a common mistake. If Google sees a 302, it keeps indexing the original URL and does not pass PageRank to the destination. Use a 301 for all permanent URL changes. Misusing 302 can cause duplicate content issues and prevent link equity from consolidating.
How to Check a Redirect
curl -I https://example.com/old-urlLook for HTTP/1.1 302 Found and the Location: header to see the target URL.