How to Move a Website to a New Host Without Downtime

Moving hosts sounds risky, but with a plan it is routine. The goal is simple: the new site is complete and tested before a single visitor is sent to it.

1. Take stock

List what you have: the website’s files, databases, email accounts, cron jobs, DNS records and any special server settings. Note which software versions are in use.

2. Back everything up

Make a full copy of files and databases. Store it somewhere other than the old server.

3. Prepare the new host

Create the account, install matching software versions and set up the database. Restore files and import the database.

4. Test on a private address

Use a temporary URL or edit your computer’s hosts file to view the new copy at your real domain. Click through key pages, forms, checkout and the admin area.

5. Lower the DNS cache time

A day before the switch, lower the TTL on your DNS records so the change spreads fast.

6. Freeze changes, then switch

For sites with orders or comments, pause changes while you copy a final version of the database. Update the DNS records to the new server.

7. Check and tidy up

Confirm the site, email and SSL certificate work. Keep the old host for a few days in case you need to roll back, then cancel it.

Do you want it done for you?

Migration is part of onboarding with Hostflipper. We run the steps above and tell you when it is safe to switch.