Domain forwarding, also known as URL forwarding or domain redirection, is a service that automatically sends visitors from one web address to another. This is a powerful tool for managing your online presence, especially when you own multiple domain names.

There are two primary types of forwarding:

• 301 (Permanent) Redirect: This tells search engines that the move is permanent. It passes most of the original site's search engine ranking power to the new destination, which is crucial for SEO.
• 302 (Temporary) Redirect: This is used for short-term moves, like during site maintenance. It does not transfer SEO value permanently.

Common uses for domain forwarding include:

• Directing traffic from common misspellings of your main domain to the correct site.
• Sending visitors from a long, complex domain to a shorter, more memorable one.
• Creating a single destination for multiple domains you own (e.g., .com, .net, .org versions).
• Linking a brand-new domain to an existing social media profile or online store.

Setting up forwarding is typically done through your domain registrar's control panel. You simply specify the source domain and the target URL. The process is instant, requiring no technical coding on your part. Remember, for business and branding consistency, use a permanent (301) redirect when you are permanently moving your site's content.

In summary, domain forwarding is an essential, user-friendly service that helps you control your web traffic, protect your brand, and consolidate your online identity without needing multiple websites.