Migrating a website to a new host or SEO agency might sound like a technical headache, but with the right process, it can be smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re switching web developers or moving your site as part of an SEO strategy, understanding the steps involved helps ensure minimal downtime.
At Wicked Spider, we make hosting migration as easy as possible when we take on a new SEO project. Here’s everything you need to know about web hosting migration and how to do it properly.
How Long Does Hosting Migration Take?
The migration process varies depending on the website’s complexity and the hosting providers involved. Generally, the domain transfer and DNS propagation can take 24 to 72 hours, so it’s important to plan accordingly to avoid disruptions. This does rely on good communication from the existing web or SEO company and the new provider, all via the client of course.
What Needs to Be Migrated?
A successful migration involves several key components:
- Website Files – All the images, scripts, and content that make up your website.
- Database – If your site uses WordPress, e-commerce platforms, or dynamic content, a database transfer is essential.
- Email Accounts & Forwarders – If your email is hosted with your current provider, these need to be recreated or transferred.
- Domain Name & DNS Settings – Your domain must be pointed to the new host correctly.
- CDN (e.g. Cloudflare) – If you use a content delivery network, settings must be updated to reflect the new hosting.
- Software Licenses – Any premium plugins, themes, or third-party tools may need to be deactivated and reactivated on the new server.
- SSL Certificates – Ensure your SSL certificate is transferred or reissued to keep your site secure.
Everything must be transferred in an orderly manner to avoid downtime and broken functionality.
Web Hosting Migration Checklist
- Backup Everything
- Website files
- Database
- Email accounts (if applicable)
- Software license keys
- Set Up the New Hosting Environment
- Install necessary software (WordPress, databases, SSL, etc.)
- Upload website files and import the database
- Verify Everything Works
- Check site functionality on a temporary domain or staging environment
- Test forms, logins, and e-commerce transactions
- Update Domain & DNS Settings
- Transfer the domain or update the DNS records
- Wait for propagation (24-72 hours)
- Reactivate Software Licenses
- Deactivate licenses on the old server (if needed)
- Reactivate on the new hosting provider
- Monitor for Issues
- Test website speed, performance, and security
- Ensure email functionality is intact
- Verify SSL is properly installed
Minimising Downtime
The best way to reduce downtime is to wait until the new hosting environment is fully set up before changing the domain settings. Once the domain is updated, traffic will automatically start going to the new server, keeping your website downtime to a minimum.
If you’re switching to a new SEO agency, having an experienced team manage the migration ensures a smooth transition. At Wicked Spider, we handle every aspect of the migration as part of our SEO services, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Need help with your hosting migration? Let’s talk.
