Why Do My React Router URLs Break on Refresh or Direct Entry?

React-router URLs Fail on Refresh or Manual Entry

Understanding Server-side vs. Client-side Routing

With client-side routing, URLs are interpreted differently. Initially, requests go to the server. After loading React Router scripts, URL changes occur locally, triggering page transitions without server requests. However, manual URL entry or copy-pasting from a friend who hasn't loaded your website triggers server requests.

Server-side Routing

In such cases, server-side routing is necessary. If your desired URL pattern (e.g., http://example.com/about) is to function both server-side and client-side, you must configure routes on both sides.

Bypass Solutions: Hash History vs. Catch-all

• Hash History: Uses URL patterns like http://example.com/#/about, which remain on the client and don't impact server requests. Disadvantages: URLs appear less desirable and no server-side rendering.
• Catch-all: Instructs the server to forward all requests (e.g., /*) to a single page (e.g., index.html). Disadvantages: No optimal SEO and code duplication.

Hybrid and Isomorphic Approaches

• Hybrid: Expands on catch-all by creating specific scripts for important routes. Disadvantages: Increased setup complexity, limited SEO, and code duplication.
• Isomorphic: Uses Node.js on the server to run the same JavaScript code used on the client. Disadvantages: Requires Node.js on the server, environmental compatibility challenges, and a steep learning curve.

Choosing the Right Solution

Select the solution that aligns with your requirements. If complexity and time are constraints, catch-all is an acceptable starting point. For Node.js-based servers, isomorphic rendering offers SEO benefits but requires more effort.

Recommended Resources

• React Isomorphic Starterkit
• React Redux Universal Hot Example
• Create React App

Remember, for optimal SEO, the server should send the same markup that would be rendered client-side. By combining server-side and client-side routing effectively, you can ensure that your React-router URLs function seamlessly in all scenarios.

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