Q: I already have a website and want to move it to a new host. How can I do this? What reception offers assistance in moving now sites hosted on another server in the server?
Good question. When you change web hosts, the idea of having to move your website with all its files from one host to another can seem daunting. But it is actually a fairly simple process that you can complete with just a few steps. Before you go about transferring files, you want to make sure that your domain is registered to the new host. Most sites easily possible to transfer a domain from your previous host to them. Keep in mind, it may take a few days to a few weeks for the transfer to complete - so do not let your domain registration expires during this period. In addition, ICANN (the body that oversees domain registrations) prohibits the transfer of a domain until 60 days have elapsed after the registration or previous transfer. For a more detailed explanation of this process, see our blog entry on the domain transfer.
How to move your website to a new host
Most of our top Web hosting services offer detailed help in their sections of help or support to guide you through the file transfer process from your previous web host to another, so it would be wise to check before starting it. There are several methods to move your files:
1. FTPS: FTPS (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is a standard Internet protocol that allows you to transfer files between two computers safely. To move your Web site with this method, you will need to download an FTP client third party - such as FileZilla or CuteFTP. Once you have the customer and running, you can simply login to your existing Web host and download files from your website. When it is finished, disconnect from the host and reconnect to your new host and download files on its system. Transfer your site via this method will require you to know the FTPS settings of your host, you can usually find by looking in the support section.
2. Web Site Migration: Some hosts offer migration services, which means that they connect to your old hosting account and perform all work necessary to transfer your website for you. HostGator offers free migration for users with new accounts or improved over the first 30 days. After the date limit of 30 days? Call for a quote for how much it will cost. Network Solutions and Green Geeks also offer website migration. While cPanel to cPanel migration is the fastest and easiest, guests can also perform migrations manually. the website migration is an excellent option if you do not feel comfortable with moving files via FTP on your own or just do not feel like dealing with the hassle on your own.
3. Transfer files with SSH access. Also known as Secure Shell, SSH is a secure way to connect your computer to a server and move files while protecting your data. This option is more complicated and not recommended for beginners or those who are inexperienced elsewhere. To move your site in this way, you will need to have SSH access with your old and two new hosts. Among the major hosting sites we review, Hostmonster, HostGator and green Geeks allow SSH access.
Moving your website from one host to another can take some time, but it is not as complicated a process as you may fear. To learn more about the different web hosts and what features and services they offer, please visit our Web page hosting review.
