Website migration involves transferring your website from one web host to another. It can be a hectic process if not planned strategically, as there are several checks to go through to avoid description.
When you buy web hosting, ensure you get clarity of the migration proceeding and support from your web host to ensure a smooth transition.
Already have a website? Don’t worry!
In this blog, we will discuss in detail the web hosting migration process for efficient website migration. A well-structured migration that minimises any errors that come your way, ensuring minimal downtime.
What is Website Migration? Why is planning important?
Website migrations mean transferring your website data from your host to a new host. For instance, you could transfer a WordPress site to a new host. You can plan website migration for several reasons, like switching to a new CMS for better security and performance, scalability, etc.
Furthermore, migration can also happen when you decide to redesign your website, update your website structure and navigation, change your domain name, etc. A website migration affects SEO significantly.
Website Migration Checklist
1. Pre-Website Migration Checklist
a. Review Current Website
Website migration starts with reviewing your current website. You need to identify components that you need to transfer, including files, databases and custom configurations. Create a list of all these elements to ensure a smooth transition.
b. Choose Host to Transfer Website to New Host
The second and most important step in the website migration checklist is to pick a web host that meets your needs.
Prioritise aspects like performance, speed, scalability, and customer support when choosing a web host.
c. Backup
A backup is crucial to ensure safety if the website incurs a loss. To provide a safety net, make sure you carry out a complete website migration.
d. Setting And Testing a New Hosting Environment
Before starting actual data migration, make sure you configure your new hosting. This may include installing all necessary software, setting up your new server and ensuring your new hosting environment meets your requirements.
e. Prepare DNS Changes
According to the new change, ensure you update the website DNS recording to target the new host and monitor the changes to ensure website availability.
2. On Going Website Migration Checklist
a. File Transfer Website to New Host
Use FTP or any particular method offered by your web host. Make sure all files are accurately transferred and maintain the directory structure.
b. Database Migration
Now, export the database from your old host server to the new one. Verify the database’s structure. Then, check the functionality of your website for a successful website migration.
c. Configuration File And Update
Configure your files according to the new web hosting environment, including updating file paths, database connections, and any setup settings.
3. Post Website Migration Checklist
a. Testing and Monitoring Performance
The next and most important step in the website migration checklist is to test and monitor the transferred website. Check functional forms to ensure there are no issues, and address them as promptly as possible.
b. Broken Links
Check for broken lists to avoid any negative impact on SEO.
c. Search Engine Setting
Ensure you inform the search engine settings with an update about the site’s transfer to a new host. Update the robot.txt file and new sitemap. Keep monitoring indexing and ranking to ensure there is no issue due to the transition.
Conclusion
Website migration can be daunting if not planned well. So, follow this website migration checklist comprehensively to avoid any possible errors.
Though transferring a website to a new host can be tough, once it is done, it is quite rewarding. For best results, always prefer migrating your website during low-traffic hours.