Hey all, as the title says. Started my site on Bluehost, but I realized it wasn’t the best fit and want to move to a new server. I’ve got my site design just how I want it, and it’s getting decent traffic now. Is it possible to switch to a different host and still keep all the WordPress settings, design, etc.? I’m new to all this, so any guidance would be awesome.
What others are saying is true, but let me add a bit more info.
If you’re not super familiar with WordPress, it’s important to know that the database is even more essential than the files in your Bluehost public_html folder. People sometimes copy files but forget the database, and then their site doesn’t work!
There are plugins and guides for migration, and if you follow one of them, switching hosts shouldn’t be a problem.
(I do this all the time for clients. Moving a site isn’t hard, but emails and domains are a bit more work. Still, the whole process isn’t as tough as it seems.)
Just to be on the safe side, try backing up your site using a free plugin like Updraft Plus. The plugin may prompt you for paid options, but you can make backups for free without issues.
LEON said:
Just to be on the safe side, try backing up your site using a free plugin like Updraft Plus. The plugin may prompt you for paid options, but you can make backups for free without issues.
Depends on your file size though! There’s a limit on the free storage, just FYI.
I suggest watching a few YouTube videos on migrating your WordPress site. Most new hosts should help, but knowing the tools and methods makes it easier.
If your site has email attached, like Technical-Jeff suggested, switching hosts with cPanel access is simple. Just update your nameservers when ready, and all settings transfer over.
Technical-Jeff covered it well. Pick a host that does free migrations. Sign up, request migration, and they’ll handle it while your site stays live. Once done, test the new setup, and if everything’s good, just switch the DNS!