Question: How do you set up a 301 redirect in Bluehost?

Setting up a 301 redirect is crucial for maintaining SEO rankings when changing URLs. On Bluehost, this can be achieved via the .htaccess file or through cPanel. Here’s how to do it both ways:

Using .htaccess File

This method involves modifying the .htaccess file in your site’s root directory. If you're not familiar with accessing this file, use an FTP client or the File Manager in cPanel.

1. Log into your cPanel.

2. Navigate to File Manager under the Files section.

3. Locate the .htaccess file in the public_html directory. If it doesn’t exist, create a new file named .htaccess.

4. Edit the file and add the following line where oldpage.html is your old page, and newpage.html is the new URL where you want the traffic redirected:

   Redirect 301 /oldpage.html http://www.yourdomain.com/newpage.html
   

5. Save changes and close the editor.

Using cPanel Redirect Function

For those who prefer not to edit files manually, Bluehost provides an easier method through its cPanel.

1. Log into your Bluehost cPanel.
2. Click on Redirects under the Domains section.
3. Choose the type of redirect, which should be Permanent (301).
4. Select the domain name from the drop-down menu.
5. In the redirects to field, enter the full URL of the destination page.
6. Specify whether you want to redirect with or without www.
7. Click Add.

After setting up your redirect, it's advisable to test by visiting the old URL to confirm that it redirects correctly to the new destination.