How to migrate to a new host

There are many reasons to switch hosting providers. Maybe your current host is too slow, support is unresponsive, prices went up on renewal, or you simply need more resources. Whatever the reason, migrating your website does not have to be complicated if you follow a clear process.

When it makes sense to switch hosts

Not every hosting frustration requires a migration. But there are clear signs that it is time to move.

If your site regularly loads slowly despite optimization, your host may be overselling resources. If support tickets take days to resolve, or if live chat is unhelpful, that is a support quality problem you cannot fix on your end.

Frequent downtime is the strongest signal. If your site goes down more than a few minutes per month, your host is not meeting basic standards.

Price increases on renewal are another common trigger. A plan that cost $3 per month in the first year but renews at $15 may no longer be the best value.

If any of these apply, it is worth looking at alternatives. Our best web hosting overview and web hosting comparison can help you find a better fit.

What to prepare before migrating

Before you start the migration, take care of a few things.

Back up your entire website, including files, databases, emails and any configuration settings. Even if your new host offers migration, having your own backup is essential.

Check your current domain registrar. Make sure you know where your domain is registered and that you have access to update DNS settings.

Note down any custom configurations on your current server, such as PHP version, cron jobs, or .htaccess rules. You will need to recreate these on the new host.

Choose your new host and set up your account before canceling the old one. You want both running simultaneously during the transition.

How to move your website step by step

1. Sign up with your new hosting provider and set up your account.
2. If your new host offers free migration, use it. Many hosts include it on at least some plans, so check the plan page for limits first. Where it is included, you submit a request and their team moves the site.
3. If you are migrating manually, download all your website files via FTP or your control panel file manager. Export your databases via phpMyAdmin. Upload everything to your new host.
4. Test your website on the new server before updating DNS. Most hosts provide a temporary URL or allow you to preview your site.
5. Update your DNS records to point your domain to the new host. This change can take up to 48 hours to propagate globally, though it usually completes much faster.
6. Once DNS has propagated and your site is live on the new host, cancel your old hosting account.

Common migration mistakes to avoid

Do not cancel your old host before the migration is complete and verified. Overlap both accounts for at least a few days.

Do not skip the backup. Even with a managed migration, things can go wrong.

Do not forget about email. If your email is hosted with your web host, you need to migrate email accounts and settings as well.

Do not ignore SSL. Make sure your SSL certificate is active on the new host before DNS changes go live.

Do not rush DNS changes. Test everything on the new server first.