How to Redirect HTTP to HTTPS in .htaccess: Complete 301 Permanent Redirect Guide
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Publisher ID: ca-pub-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (Configured in config.php)Enforcing HTTPS is critical for security, user trust, and SEO. Learn how to write bulletproof Apache mod_rewrite rules that permanently redirect all traffic to HTTPS without creating redirect loops.
Add this rule at the very top of your ".htaccess" file in public_html: RewriteEngine On -> RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off -> RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]. If behind Cloudflare proxy, use: RewriteCond %{HTTP:X-Forwarded-Proto} !https.
📋 Guide Table of Contents
1. Problem Diagnosis & Symptoms
Without automatic redirects, search engines may index both HTTP and HTTPS versions, splitting link equity and causing duplicate content penalties.
2. Primary Root Causes
- Cause: Missing redirect directives in web root.
3. Step-by-Step Diagnostic Fixes
Add Canonical HTTPS Rule in .htaccess
Edit public_html/.htaccess:
<IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]
</IfModule>4. How to Verify the Resolution
- Visit http://gardenwargame.online and confirm instant redirection to https://.
5. Diagnostic Troubleshooting Matrix
| Symptom Observed | Root Cause | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS on HTTPS | SSL proxy passes decrypted HTTP to origin while origin checks %{HTTPS} off | Use RewriteCond %{HTTP:X-Forwarded-Proto} !https instead of %{HTTPS} off |
6. Critical Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using temporary 302 redirects instead of permanent 301 redirects.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does a 301 redirect pass full Google PageRank?
Yes, Google officially confirmed that 301 redirects transfer full PageRank equity.
Official Technical References
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