Domain forwarding is when one domain name automatically redirects visitors to another domain. It's a helpful tool if you own multiple domain names but want them all to point to a single website. For example, if you bought different variations of your domain name (like .com, .net, or common misspellings), domain forwarding makes sure people land on the right site no matter which version they type.

It’s also commonly used during a brand name change, website migration, or when directing traffic to a new landing page without needing to create a separate AI website builder for every URL.

There are two main types:

• 301 redirects (permanent): Best for SEO and telling search engines the page has permanently moved.
• 302 redirects (temporary): Used when the redirection is short-term.

Why would someone use domain forwarding?

Domain forwarding can help keep your brand consistent, capture more web traffic, and avoid confusion. It ensures visitors get where they need to go—whether they're typing in your domain manually or clicking a link. It also helps protect your digital presence by making sure competitors don’t buy up similar domain names.

If you use tools like B12 AI Assist for content creation or website updates, domain forwarding makes it easier to manage everything in one place—even if people are arriving from different URLs.

How is domain forwarding set up?

Most domain registrars make it easy to set up forwarding in your domain dashboard. You just enter the destination URL, choose the type of redirect (301 or 302), and hit save. No technical knowledge required—though it’s good to double-check that your forwarding setup doesn’t interfere with SEO or break existing links.

If you’re using an AI website builder like B12, domain forwarding is usually a built-in feature with clear instructions.

FAQs about domain forwarding

Can I forward multiple domains to one website?

Yes, many businesses do this to capture traffic from various domain versions or related brand names.

Will domain forwarding hurt my SEO?

Not if done correctly. Using a 301 redirect is ideal because it passes most of the link equity to the destination URL.

Is domain forwarding the same as domain masking?

No, forwarding redirects users to a different URL, while masking keeps the original URL visible in the browser. Masking can negatively affect SEO and user experience.

Can I forward a domain without hosting?

Yes. You don’t need a hosting plan to forward a domain—just access to your registrar's control panel.

Does domain forwarding work with email?

Not directly. Domain forwarding only affects website traffic. Email forwarding requires a separate setup through your domain or email provider.

How domain forwarding helps keep your web presence unified

Whether you're consolidating brand assets, switching to a new business name, or just securing all variations of your domain, forwarding ensures no visitor gets left behind. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes tools that helps create a smooth, professional online experience for both you and your clients. With platforms like B12, it’s easy to manage domains, content, client engagement, and even email marketing from one place. Add online scheduling and other features, and your entire digital presence stays cohesive—even across multiple domain names.

Ready to bring it all together? Sign up with B12 today and make managing your domains—and your website—simpler than ever.