window.location | javascript redirecting

Question

So, I have been learning some Javascript, and I came across the:

window.location = "website goes here..";

Now I have now learned that this could be used to redirect the user, I remember long ago i wanted so much to know how I can redirect users, without anchor tags and header(location:) since i couldn't use header after headers been sent.

SO I ask you guys, what are the disadvantages of using this Javascript to deal with redirecting my users after a if statement for example, or are there simply none.

Thanks

Well firstly you must establish the actual intention of using that script. User having javascript disabled, having a plugin that disables such sudden redirects, SEO.. — BrownEyes
– BrownEyes, Commented Mar 13, 2014 at 16:36

Niet the Dark Absol · Accepted Answer · 2014-03-13 16:36:07Z

3

If the user has JavaScript disabled, your redirect won't work.

Personally, I start my PHP code with ob_start(), then I can use header wherever I want :p

answered Mar 13, 2014 at 16:36

Niet the Dark Absol

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2 Comments

user3332590 Over a year ago

Okay, can you please explain deeper how using ob_start() will let you use header whenever you want? thanks.

Niet the Dark Absol Over a year ago

ob_start() buffers output, meaning any output you have won't cause headers to be sent, meaning you can add new headers at any time.

416E64726577 · Accepted Answer · 2014-03-13 16:38:58Z

2

A possible disadvantage is that the User can disable Javascript. You can either use PHP, or you can use <meta http-equiv="refresh" content="0; URL='URL Here'" />.

answered Mar 13, 2014 at 16:38

416E64726577

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Niet the Dark Absol Over a year ago

People can disable META refresh too.

416E64726577 Over a year ago

Yes, your answer seems like the best solution. :)

user3380417 · Accepted Answer · 2014-03-13 16:44:42Z

1

I would say the primary problem with using javascript to redirect a user is that the redirect is not guaranteed. So for sensitive redirects that are important one should use header() or something that you know will work. If the redirect is simply an added bonus for your user then using javascript will work just fine.

answered Mar 13, 2014 at 16:44

user3380417

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