What it is
A meta refresh redirect is a client-side workaround that Google handles inconsistently and users find jarring. I replace it with a proper server-side redirect. Client-side meta refresh used to redirect. Slower and less reliable than HTTP redirects; poor practice. Replace with server-side 301.
Why does meta refresh redirect matter for AI search?
Slower and less reliable than HTTP redirects; poor practice.
How do you fix it?
Replace with server-side 301.
How do you find it on your site?
- View source and search for a meta http-equiv refresh tag.
- Note the target URL and delay.
- Replace it with a server-side 301 or 302 as appropriate.
- Confirm the new redirect with curl -I.
Which ranking and citation factors does it touch?
Server-side redirects pass signals reliably. Meta refresh is treated as a weaker, less predictable signal.
What is the impact?
Low-medium. Industry consensus + Google preference for HTTP redirects.
What is the evidence?
Google prefers server-side redirects over meta refresh. Google Search Central, Redirects and Google Search
Frequently asked questions about meta refresh redirect
What does "Meta refresh redirect" mean?
Client-side meta refresh used to redirect.
How do you fix meta refresh redirect?
Replace with server-side 301.