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Rapid Canonical URLs
Reduce 301 redirects and HTTP requests by using HTML5’s history API to show visitors the correct, canonical URL.
The facts
- Active installs
- 100+
- Price
- Free
- Last updated
- 9 May 2026
- Added
- Jul 2014
- Requires WP
- 4.4.0
- Tested up to
- WP 7.0.4
- Requires PHP
- 5.6.20
- Downloads
- 7,390
Our analysis
AI-assistedRapid Canonical URLs is a WordPress plugin designed to manage URL redirection to canonical versions using 301 redirects. It utilises the HTML5 history API to display the correct URL to visitors without additional HTTP requests, which can enhance site speed and reduce server load.
This plugin is suitable for users who want to improve their site's performance while ensuring that visitors see the correct URLs. It is particularly recommended for use alongside an SEO plugin that adds canonical URL meta tags.
Best for: This plugin suits website owners looking to optimise URL management and improve site speed.
What it does well
- ✓Reduces HTTP requests for faster access
- ✓Lowers server load
- ✓Utilises HTML5 history API for URL management
- ✓Free to use from the WordPress.org directory
- ✓Active installation count of 100
Where it falls short
- •Requires an additional SEO plugin for optimal use
- •Limited information on rating and feedback
- •No recent updates beyond May 2026
Verdict
Rapid Canonical URLs offers a specific solution for URL redirection and performance enhancement. However, its effectiveness is best realised when paired with an SEO plugin.
From the developer
Peter Wilson's own description of Rapid Canonical URLs, lightly tidied.
WordPress uses 301 redirects to redirect URLs to their canonical version.
In cases where the non-canonical version will show the correct content,
it is possible to use the HTML5 history API to show visitors the correct
URL without the additional HTTP request.
This reduces HTTP requests, speeding up access for visitors and reducing
the load on your server.
It is strongly recommended you use this plugin in association with an
SEO plugin that adds canonical URL meta tags.
Tagged as
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