How to Migrate a WordPress Site to a New Host (Step by Step)

Moving a WordPress site to a new host is completely safe when you do it step by step with a full backup. This guide walks through the entire migration process, from backing up to final testing.

Why migrate your site?

The most common reasons to migrate: your current host has become chronically slow, you have run out of space or resources, renewal prices jumped, or you need better features (such as dedicated WordPress hosting instead of standard shared hosting).

Step 1: Take a full backup of your current site

Before doing anything else, back up your files (the wp-content folder and WordPress core) and your database, using phpMyAdmin or a plugin such as All-in-One WP Migration. This backup is your safety net.

Step 2: Prepare the new host

Before migrating, make sure the new host is active, running the right PHP version, and, if needed, has a domain or temporary subdomain set up for testing.

Step 3: Transfer the files and database

Transfer your files to the new host via FTP or the control panel's file manager. Import the database on the new host and update wp-config.php with the new database credentials.

Step 4: Test on a temporary domain

Before switching your main DNS, thoroughly check the site on a temporary address (an IP or a test subdomain): pages, forms, your store (if you have one), and load speed.

Step 5: Update DNS and complete the migration

Once you are confident the site is healthy on the new host, point your domain's DNS records to the new server. This change typically takes a few hours and up to 24 hours to propagate worldwide.

Step 6: Reinstall SSL and do a final SEO check

After the DNS switch, reactivate your SSL certificate on the new host and confirm your sitemap, redirects, and internal links are all intact so your search rankings do not take a hit.

Common migration mistakes

• Skipping a full backup before starting
• Forgetting to transfer the .htaccess file or permalink settings
• Switching DNS without testing on the new host first

Bottom line

With the right plan, a WordPress migration can happen without any SEO drop or data loss. If you would rather skip the hassle and do it for free, RGB's WordPress hosting includes free site migration from your previous host; check out the WordPress hosting plans.