Changing Web Hosts in Six Easy Steps
Running a website can be challenging, especially when things start go wrong. If the server is slow and always going down, it is your web hosting provider who has the problem. Be that is it may, all those issues have a direct impact on your site. If these problems occur on a regular basis, it could be a sign that you need to move on.
Changing web hosts is never a task you look forward to but sometimes it just has to be done. The following tips will help you experience a smooth transition with as little downtime as possible.
Prepare for the Move
Just as you would do when preparing to move into a new house, you need to pack up your website files before switching to a new server. Save all the individual files you can and take note of your configurations. If you have an SSL certificate, be sure to get the key and take it to the new web host. Saving and organizing your content gives you a better chance of quickly setting things back up.
Find a New Web Host
Before severing ties with your old provider, you need to find a new company that is able to meet your needs. Look for a host that supports the software and technologies you were previously using to enable a seamless transition.
Get Your Domain Name
Good domain names are hard to come by so you definitely want to take it with you. If you purchased domain registration from your old web host, you may want to search the WHOIS database to ensure that you are registered as the owner. If not, you won’t be able to transfer the domain to a new provider. If you are, transferring it is as simple as getting the nameservers and pointing them to the new host. This part is very important as it can have a tremendous impact on how much downtime your site endures.
Make the Move
After handling your domain name situation, its time to move in on the new server. Even though your domain will take up to 48 hours to propagate to the new nameservers, the web hosting company should still activate your account quickly and allow you to get set up. Unload your files and create the website how you see fit. Remember to test all of your links and databases to make sure everything is working properly. During this process, you may want to inform visitors that you are moving to a new server. In this case, it is recommended to keep your email account active on the old mail server.
Cancel Your Old Web Hosting Account
After the domain name is transferred and your site up and running with everything working, the next step is to break the bad news to your old web host. You may want to look over the contract and make sure there aren’t penalties for cancellation or if the host owns any of your content. In most cases, you can simply write a polite letter making the request and get a cancellation with no problems.
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