Migrating hosts is one of those tasks that sounds scary but is very manageable with the right order of operations.
Audit everything first – Databases, files, email accounts, cron jobs, SSL certs — list everything that needs to move.
Set up the new host and test before switching DNS – Use a temporary URL or hosts file edit to verify the site works correctly on the new server first.
Lower your DNS TTL in advance – Do this 24-48 hours before migration so the DNS change propagates faster when you flip it.
Sync the database right before cutover – Minimize the gap between your last backup and the actual switch to avoid losing recent data.
Keep the old host running for a few days after – As a safety net in case something needs to be re-checked or rolled back.
Has anyone migrated recently? Any surprises you didn't plan for?
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