// glossary entry

Redirect chains

What are redirect chains?

Redirect chains consist of multiple redirects in sequence, URL A → URL B → URL C → URL D. Each step adds to the load time, slows down crawling, and dilutes the authority passed along. Chains usually arise from relaunches that have evolved over time, without old redirects being updated to point to the current target URL after each step. A related problem is redirect loops, in which URLs refer back to themselves in a circular pattern. At Waterproof Web Wizard, we resolve these chains during relaunches and map old URLs directly to the current target version.

// synonyms

  • Redirect Chain
  • Redirect Loop
  • Forwarding Chain
Is the term still unclear?

Let's talk for 15 minutes

If a term in this glossary isn't entirely clear in the context of your project, or if you want to know whether the concept is relevant to your situation—just ask us. The initial consultation is free and non-binding.

Free No obligation 15 minutes