Frequently Asked Questions
What is a URL redirect?
A URL redirect is a technique used on the web to make a web page available under more than one URL address. When a web browser attempts to open a URL that has been redirected, a page with a different URL is opened. Common reasons include moving a site to a new domain, temporarily directing traffic during maintenance, or tracking clicks.
What do the different status codes (301, 302, etc.) mean?
- 301 Moved Permanently: This redirect is permanent. Search engines update their index to the new URL.
- 302 Found / Moved Temporarily: This redirect is temporary. Search engines typically don't update their index and continue to crawl the original URL.
- 307 Temporary Redirect: Similar to 302, but guarantees the method (e.g., GET, POST) used to make the request is not changed when redirecting.
- 308 Permanent Redirect: Similar to 301, but guarantees the method used to make the request is not changed when redirecting.
- Other Statuses (2xx, 4xx, 5xx): 2xx codes (like 200 OK) indicate success (the final destination). 4xx codes (like 404 Not Found) indicate client errors. 5xx codes indicate server errors.
Why did the trace stop before reaching the final page?
The trace might stop for several reasons:
- Maximum Redirects Reached: To prevent getting stuck in infinite loops, the tool limits the number of redirects it follows (usually 10).
- Error Encountered: If the tool encounters an error like a connection timeout, DNS resolution failure, or an invalid URL, it will stop.
- Non-Redirect Status: The trace naturally stops when it reaches a URL that returns a status code indicating success (2xx) or an error (4xx, 5xx) rather than a redirect (3xx).
- JavaScript Redirects: This tool only follows HTTP header redirects. Some pages use JavaScript to redirect users, which this tool cannot detect.
What are shortened URLs and why should I unshorten them?
Shortened URLs (like bit.ly/abc123) are compact versions of long web addresses. While convenient for sharing, they hide the actual destination, which can be exploited by malicious actors to disguise phishing sites or malware. Unshortening URLs reveals the true destination before you click, helping you stay safe online.
Is this tool safe to use?
Yes. The tool simply makes standard HTTP requests to the URLs provided, similar to how your browser would (but without executing JavaScript or rendering content). It does not interact with the pages in any harmful way.
Which URL shorteners can I expand?
Our tool supports 100+ URL shorteners including Bitly, TinyURL, t.co (Twitter/X), Ow.ly, and many more. You can view the complete list here.