how can we change folder names without losing traffic and create lots of 404 errors... Hi - here's the scenario: 1. I've created a dottel site with a load of folders (aka urls). 2. These urls are now in use and indexed 3. I want to restructure my directory and rename/move some of these folders Here's the problem: 1. Normally I would just create the new urls and add entries in a htaccess file or similar to redirect the traffic thereby avoiding an end user seeing any difference or the dreaded page not found Now using a tel domain, what's the best way to achieve this? Options: 1. Don't change anything 2. Create duplicate folders with the new names and content and keeping the old ones also live 3. Restructure and live with losing traffic until search engines redirect and users possibly find the new urls Has anyone found a good solution to this? |
Dear dottel.net i had a similar issue. As explained since the urls are indexed, it will take time before it is replaced by the new ones. Therefore any user clicking on the old url will get a "page not found or something like that". The best option is as you stated: - keep the old folders; - create the new folders (part of the new structure you have); - move the content of the old folders to the new folders; - add a link in the older folders to point to the new folders; You can keep it as it is if it is few old folders otherwise, once the new folders are indexed properly, you can delete the old ones. I have chosen to keep the old ones...what will you choose? Be well. |
im leaning towards creating new folders and having these linked in my directory. all old folders will be updated with a message along the lines of this page has now moved along with the new url for it. in and ideal world, we'd be able to tell the proxy to auto redirect in such cases. it wouldnt be a security flaw as the redirect would have to be to another tel url within the same domain to prevent folks redirecting out to other pages/websites. thoughts? telnic - is this a fair request for a future enhancement? |