Why would you need to check a redirect?
A URL that used to work fine can end up bouncing through several redirects before reaching its final destination, which slows down page loading and can dilute ranking strength if not set up correctly. Checking a redirect chain shows you exactly how many hops a link takes and what type each one is, so you can confirm it's configured the way you intended.
The difference between a 301 and a 302 redirect
A 301 redirect is permanent and tells search engines to transfer the full ranking value to the new URL, treating it as the page's new home. A 302 redirect is temporary, so search engines keep the original URL in their index rather than replacing it — which is the right choice when you expect to move content back to the original address later.
Steps to check a URL on Fastols
The tool checks your URL instantly:
Open the Redirect Checker tool
Open the tool directly from the tools page.
Enter the URL
Paste the link you want to check.
Run the check
The tool follows the URL through every redirect step.
Review the chain
See each redirect type and the final destination URL.
Practical tips before you start
Before checking your redirects, keep these points in mind:
- Watch out for long redirect chains — each extra hop adds load time and can weaken the ranking signal passed along.
- Make sure a permanent content move uses a 301, not a 302, so search engines transfer ranking value correctly.
- Recheck important URLs after any major site migration or domain change.
- If a redirect chain looks longer than expected, trace it back to see where the extra hops are coming from.
A long chain of redirects slows down page loading and can weaken the ranking signal passed to the final URL — try to redirect straight to the final destination whenever possible.
Common use cases
- Verifying a redirect is set up correctly after moving a page to a new URL.
- Diagnosing why a page is loading slower than expected due to redirect chains.
- Checking that a domain migration preserved ranking signals correctly.
- Confirming an old marketing link still redirects to the right destination.
Why choose Fastols?
Traces the full redirect chain
See every hop from start to finish
No data stored
The URL is processed in your browser and not stored with us
Completely free
Unlimited use with no hidden fees
Clear redirect type labels
Instantly see 301 vs 302 for each hop
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a 301 and a 302?
A 301 is a permanent redirect that transfers the full ranking value, while a 302 is temporary and search engines keep the original URL indexed.
Is my data stored on your servers?
No, the URL is processed in your browser and not stored with us.
Do long redirect chains hurt SEO?
Yes, they slow down page loading and can reduce the ranking strength passed to the final URL.
Does the tool check both HTTPS and HTTP links?
Yes, the tool traces any URL regardless of the protocol used.
Can a URL have more than one redirect?
Yes, that's called a redirect chain, and the tool shows you every step in order.
Is a 302 redirect always wrong to use?
No, a 302 is appropriate for genuinely temporary redirects; the issue is only when it's mistakenly used for a permanent move.
Ready to check your site's links?
Try the redirect checker for free right now — no sign-up, no software to install.
Try the Redirect Checker Now