Perm Redirect: 301 vs. htaccess on Windows server

[Calum]

So many opinions on this topic from posts on WebmasterWorld.

Question: On a windows server, which method of permanently redirecting domain 1 to domain 2 is preferable:
1. 301
2. htaccess

If you know which, then would you please provide some details.

Thanks in adv.
Calum

[mattglet]

Wasn't aware you could use htaccess on a windows server?

-Matt

[Calum]

That's the golden Qeuestion Matt

My hosts are clueless about 301's and .htaccess
Have been searching for 5 weeks in WebmasterWorld and no answer on how to do a perm redirect on a windows server.

Still seeking and searching - Calum

[mattglet]

Ok, this is how you do it. First off, htaccess is a *nix tool, you will not find one on a windows server. In order to do a 301, you will need to put this code on the top of every page you wish to be redirected:

<%@ Language=VBScript %>
<%
Response.Status="301 Moved Permanently"
Response.AddHeader "Location", "http://www.example.com/yournewpage.asp"
%>

The page this code runs on must be an .asp page.

Hope this helps.

-Matt

[Calum]

The veil lifts and all becomes clear! Thanks Matt.

Your answer raises another question.
The objective is to consolidate the backlinks from one site (.com) into another (.co.uk). Both domains DNS entries point to the same IP address. However G sees them as separate domains, and therefore dilutes the backlinks.

In your expert opinion, is the 301 the best vehicle to achieve this?

Thx again, Calum