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For example, I am seeing directories that rank in serps, with a URL which is a 302 to an affiliate.
For example I can replace 404's with a 200ok and a helpful page, but an SE may run a quick "test" of my site with a probable 404 request (randomjunk.html), get a 200Ok and classify me as bogus/dynamic.
For example some say 301's are bad, some say 302's are misunderstood....
Perhaps there is already an authority page on how and when to use redirects, or perhaps we need one? Thanks.
I am interested in "the bottom line" of using redirects, and would appreciate pointers to good threads or references on the topic.
Reference
First place to start is at the authoritative resource on protocols. Understanding what each status code means and the end result will be an important first step.
Now, depending on what type of server environment you are in, will determine how you will go about implementing your 301, 302, 304, 307, 404, and 410 status codes.
When it comes to the technicalities of the above, I stick to the written standard. No if's, and's or but's on this one. I've seen many problem topics here about how different userAgents are reacting to 301s, 302s, and other redirect methods. I've not experienced any issues implementing them based on the standards.
If this is true, then why are there so many concerns expressed about the proper technique of moving a site? It seems it should be a "permanently-moved" redirect, but clearly there is alot of concern on the webmaster boards that such a direct implementation of the standards will have negative results on SERPs and PR (?)
If this is true, then why are there so many concerns expressed about the proper technique of moving a site?
I've often wondered about that myself. I too read most of the topics relative to this subject and don't understand why there are so many issues that come up. I do know that a few search engines have publically stated that they were/are having problems with certain redirect methods.
In regards to permanently moving an old resource to a new resource, 301 is the standard and from my perspective the only correct way to handle it. It's the search engines that need to get on the ball and start to handle them correctly.
I do know that the few who have contacted me about redirects had problems in their setup. They thought they were returning a 301 when in fact they were not. That is why it is imperative that you backtrack and double check all of your work when implementing any sort of redirect. Server header tools are an important tool in the search engine marketeer's toolbox.
