Question

Is there a way to redirect the window or tab when a user closes it? This does not work (in jQuery):

$(window).bind('beforeunload', function() {
   window.location = 'anotherpage.html'
}

Is it even possible? I just want to redirect a user to another page when they close it.

Answer 1

No, the only thing you can do is alert the user they are about to close your page and ask them if they would like to remain or confirm to leave.

This is very common on pages which require you to save before exiting, like an online exam or survey for example.

  window.onbeforeunload = confirmExit;
  function confirmExit()
  {
      return "You have attempted to leave this page.  If you have made any changes to the fields without clicking the Save button, your changes will be lost.  Are you sure you want to exit this page?";
  }