Configure Plesk Domain Forwarding Without Confusing Hosting Types

Plesk can use a domain’s hosting configuration for forwarding instead of serving a separate website. Changing that hosting type affects how requests are handled; preserve the existing configuration and required data before converting a working site.

Choose standard forwarding deliberately

1. Sign in to verified HTTPS Plesk and select the correct domain/subscription under Websites & Domains.
2. Open its hosting settings, using the Change hosting-type action where the installed release offers it.
3. Select Forwarding and enter the complete intended destination URL.
4. For a real browser redirect, use standard forwarding and the appropriate offered permanent or temporary status. Review confirmation before saving.

New-domain creation can also offer forwarding as a hosting type. Do not select it when the intended task is an independent website or an alias with separate web/mail options.

Frame forwarding is different

Frame forwarding embeds destination content while retaining the source address in the browser. It is not the same as an HTTP 301/302 redirect, can be blocked by the destination’s framing protections and can complicate navigation, authentication and accessibility. Do not choose it as an assumed SEO or privacy improvement.

Verify source and destination

Check the actual HTTP status and Location, exact paths, query handling and loop/chain behavior. For HTTPS requests, validate the source certificate first as well as the destination. DNS must still reach the service performing the forwarding.

Review application/file retention and mail behavior for the installed hosting-type change rather than assuming a successful save preserves every service. Keep a recoverable before-state. If the desired scope is only one application path, use the supported narrower mechanism rather than replacing the whole site’s hosting type.

References: Plesk forwarder workflow and hosting-type and frame/standard differences.

Reviewed October 16, 2026. No Plesk hosting type, redirect, stored data or mail service was changed or tested.