BlogHosting & domains
Moving a website to a new host without downtime
By Micah Ondiwa, Senior Software Engineer 1 min read
Copy, test on the new host, lower DNS TTL, switch and keep the old host running briefly.
Moving hosts can be uneventful with a careful sequence.
1. Prepare the new hosting
Set up matching software versions.
2. Copy files and database
Then test the site on the new host using a temporary address.
3. Lower DNS TTL
A day before the switch.
4. Freeze changes
Briefly, while the final copy is made.
5. Switch DNS
Point records to the new host.
6. Keep the old host
For a few days while DNS updates propagate.
7. Don't forget email
If email is hosted with the old provider, plan it separately.
Check after the move
Test forms, logins, payments and search on the new host, check that SSL certificates are valid, and watch error logs for a few days.
Ask us to handle the move.
About the author
Micah Ondiwa
Senior Software Engineer
Micah Ondiwa writes about software engineering — application architecture, APIs and integration, data and AI-assisted development, and reliable delivery.