1.2 Indexability & statusMediumIndustry consensus
Meta refresh redirect
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.
What it is
Client-side meta refresh used to redirect.
Why it matters
Slower and less reliable than HTTP redirects; poor practice.
How to fix it
Replace with server-side 301.
How to 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.
Cross-reference to ranking and citation factors
Server-side redirects pass signals reliably. Meta refresh is treated as a weaker, less predictable signal.
Impact
Low-medium. Industry consensus + Google preference for HTTP redirects.
Evidence
Google prefers server-side redirects over meta refresh. Google Search Central, Redirects and Google Search