What is .htaccess File?
The .htaccess file is a server configuration file that controls how Apache web servers handle requests, redirects, and access permissions. It’s essential for implementing technical SEO improvements like URL redirects, canonicalization, and site security measures.
Ecommerce SEO Glossary > Technical SEO > .htaccess File
What You Need to Know about .htaccess File
Implement 301 Redirects for SEO
Use .htaccess to create permanent redirects that preserve link equity and prevent 404 errors during site migrations.
Control URL Structure and Canonicalization
Set up trailing slash rules and force HTTPS to eliminate duplicate content issues that dilute search rankings.
Block Malicious Bots and Scrapers
Protect your site’s crawl budget by blocking harmful bots while allowing legitimate search engine crawlers access.
Enable Compression and Caching
Implement GZIP compression and browser caching rules to improve page load speeds, a confirmed Google ranking factor.
Secure Sensitive Directories
Restrict access to admin areas and configuration files to prevent security vulnerabilities that could harm search visibility.
Set Custom Error Pages
Create user-friendly 404 pages that keep visitors engaged and provide clear navigation back to important site sections.
Frequently Asked Questions about .htaccess File
1. Where is the .htaccess file located on my website?
The .htaccess file sits in your website’s root directory and affects that folder plus all subdirectories.
2. Can .htaccess changes break my website?
Yes, syntax errors in .htaccess can cause server errors. Always backup your file before making changes.
3. Do .htaccess rules work on all web servers?
No, .htaccess only works on Apache servers. Nginx uses different configuration files for similar functionality.
4. How do I test if my .htaccess redirects are working correctly?
Use HTTP status code checkers or browser developer tools to verify that redirects return proper 301 status codes.
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