It's common to look around for the least expensive web hosting when starting your site.
Have we all engaged in it?
And it makes sense since you don't need extra features or ultra-high performance when starting.
Hence I consistently advise new blogs to use shared hosting.
It's common to discover that the web host you initially chose is no longer meeting your needs as you gain more experience running a blog or your site begins to receive more traffic and requires higher performance. This could be because the host can't handle the traffic on your site or because the host needs to provide reliable and high-quality support.
So, are you trapped?
Do you have to continue using that web host for the duration that you have your website, in other words?
No! Not!
Your website will continue to function the same even if you switch web hosts, so you're never tied to your existing host. Changing web servers and moving your website may be done quickly and without any data loss or delay.
Isn't it wonderful?
In this article, I'll discuss a few ways you may switch web hosts and some things you should think about before doing so.
The Many Alternatives For Changing Web Hosting
You have a variety of alternatives for migrating your website from your current host to your new host if you decide to switch web hosts.
Option 1. Check to see whether your new host provides free or paid migrations.
Checking whether the host you wish to migrate your website provides free migrations is the most straightforward approach to switching web servers.
Several web providers may provide free site migrations to transfer your website from an existing host as an incentive to sign up for hosting; these migrations are often carried out by knowledgeable support staff:
With this approach, you only need to provide your new host with your existing host's login information, and they will take care of the rest. Some companies even have quick migration solutions that are automated.
Sadly, not every host provides free migrations.
Yet, even if your preferred server doesn't provide free migrations, you may still be able to get them to move your website if you're prepared to pay.
For instance, Bluehost charges $149.99 for the conversion of up to 5 websites and 20 email accounts while not offering free site migration services:
Migrations for a fee are practical. Yet, alternative methods exist to transfer your website for free if you're on a tight budget.
Employ a free migration plugin like Duplicator as a second option.
Use a free WordPress plugin like Duplicator if your host doesn't provide free migrations and you want to avoid paying for a premium migration. This is your best alternative.
The Duplicator plugin eliminates a lot of the tedious labor involved in moving your WordPress site to a new server.
You must still do a few manual steps, which are considerably more manageable. You essentially do the following:
• Install Duplicator at your current server and duplicate your website
Establish a new database at your new server (a bit complicated, but your new host can assist) and upload a duplicate of your site there (it's only two files, very straightforward). Execute the automated Duplicator installer to complete the import of your site.
• Modify the DNS for your domain name to refer to your new host
After you're done, your WordPress site will be replicated precisely at your new host.
Option 3: Manually move your WordPress website (Not For Beginners)
I advise novices to refrain from using this technique. But, moving your WordPress site manually to new hosting is easier if you feel comfortable dealing directly with your site's files.
In general, you must:
• Transfer all of your website's files to the new server
• Export and import your website's database at the new host
• Edit your wp-config.php file
• Modify your domain name's DNS to link to your new host
Be sure to take these factors into account. Before/Following Shifting Web Servers
Although switching web hosts is simple and won't result in any data loss or site downtime, there are a few things to watch out for before and after the switch.
Before Switching Web Servers...
Secondly, check whether your new web server has fewer restrictions than your present provider.
For instance, although some providers offer limitless storage, others restrict the file storage you may utilize.
Ensure your new server provides adequate storage for your website to prevent any problems.
Other restrictions, such as the number of websites your plan permits, may also apply.
Second, think about variations in features. Ensure your new host provides the same functionality if you use any unique features from your current host.
Be sure you can get an SSL certificate at your new server if, for instance, you already utilize a free SSL certificate from your existing host.
After a Web Host Switch...
After moving your website to a new host, the most crucial action is to test it.
The migration often goes off without a hitch. Nonetheless, you must still test it to make sure everything runs well.
You can have problems in the following areas:
• Images: Sometimes, missing image reports are made.
• Strange characters appearing in your content: I encountered this strange problem while manually relocating a website. You may need to search for and replace it on your website's database.
• Issues with redirects and permalinks: Verify that the permalinks on your WordPress site are still functional. You should also check that any custom redirects you employ continue to function correctly.
Never assume that your web host is your only option.
You shouldn't ever feel trapped if your web host can no longer suit your demands.
You can transfer your current website to a new server without any downtime or data loss.
The most straightforward approach to switching web hosts is to look for a new provider that offers a free migrating service. But, even if your preferred server doesn't provide free migrations, you may still manually migrate your website or use the Duplicator plugin, which is free.
Do you have any other queries or ideas about switching web hosts? If you share in the comments, we'll be pleased to assist!