301 vs 302: Moved Permanently vs Found
Both status codes appear frequently in production traffic but communicate different intent.
| Aspect | 301 | 302 |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Moved Permanently describes how the server processed the request and what the client should do next. | Found describes how the server processed the request and what the client should do next. |
| Typical use case | HTTP 301 Moved Permanently indicates a redirection response outcome. | HTTP 302 Found indicates a redirection response outcome. |
| Operational note | Monitor cache/client behavior when returning 301. | Monitor cache/client behavior when returning 302. |
When to use one vs the other
Choose the code that most accurately reflects semantics and expected client behavior.
FAQ
Can I swap these codes?
No. Returning the wrong code can break clients, SEO expectations, or caching behavior.