Moving your website from one host to another

Posted by Felix Okoli on Saturday September 13, 2014 at 13:2:35:

So you want to switch hosts but don’t know how? That’s alright, we’re here for you. Chances are you want better support or just better service in general. No matter your reason, the moving steps are obviously the same. Here goes:

There are six steps to moving your website from one host to another.

1: Search for and secure a new host
2: Find your registration information
3. Do the Switch
4. Ensure you back up your data
5. Cancel your old host
6. Set Up New Host: Check scripts, Links and Run Tests

Step 1: Search for and secure new host:
You want to find a new host before you even begin the move. To do this, do your due diligence and sift through tons of reviews and internet real estate service providers before making your decision. This is so you do not (as they say) jump from the frying pan into the fire. The good news is they are over 15,000 hosting companies who would jump at the opportunity to host your website. It is thus up to you to pick one that suits your needs after putting price, service, ratings and more into consideration. We already have a few articles in this area so feel free to search our website for more information on this.

Step 2: Find your registration information
It is very important your name is listed as “owner” of your domain name. If this is not the case, moving your website will be very complex because it would seem as though you are not authorised to move the site as it is not listed as yours. This is why buying packages or plans from people who are not owners or resellers is usually a bad idea. If you fall out with them or lose contact with them, you’ll be finding yourself in a tight spot if you decide to move. If you are listed, that’s good but here’s a tip for you: Note that your current host is usually listed as your Technical support. We recommend not telling them you are moving until you have completely moved.

Step 3: Do the Switch
You can now proceed to do the switch. This involves some technical know-how. If you can’t do this, you should hire someone to do this for you.
Step 4: Ensure you back up your data
Data backup is essential as you move your website, in fact, it is essential as long as you have a website period! You could burn extra copy of your data onto a CD after burning onto your hard drive. This is extremely important. Don’t just make the assumption your host has a backup even if they say they do.

Step 5: Cancel your old hosting service
After the switch, go back and cancel your old host. Bet they’ll be sorry to see you go. Since you have already safely moved, they would not be able to cause any sort of problems that could delay your moving so you’re safe.

Step 6: Set Up New Host: Check scripts, Links and Run Tests
You can now set up your new host; check your scripts and links to ensure they all work. You should also test to make sure everything looks right when the website uploads. If you have any issues, or something’s not working properly, make sure you check you didn’t do something wrong first, before assuming the host is to blame and contacting support.
Voila! There you have it.