The rule that prevents most disasters: do not cancel the old host until the new one has run without problems for at least a week.
- Take a full backup. Download the files, export the database and save a copy somewhere that is not either host.
- Lower your DNS TTL. Set it to about 300 seconds a day ahead, so the change takes effect quickly. Check the current value with our DNS lookup.
- Copy the site. Upload the files, import the database and update the database settings in your site's configuration.
- Test before you switch. Edit your computer's hosts file, or use your new host's preview link, to see the new copy under your domain.
- Plan for email. If your host also runs your email, note its MX records and move your mailboxes before you change anything.
- Change DNS. Point the A record or nameservers to the new host, and stop editing content on the old site.
- Check the certificate. Once DNS has moved, issue the certificate and confirm it with our SSL checker.
- Watch it for a week. Use the uptime checker, look through your error logs, then cancel the old plan.