There are many reasons to move a WordPress website to a new host: better speed, more reliable uptime, improved support, lower costs or more resources as your site grows. Migration can seem intimidating because it involves files, databases and DNS settings, but with careful planning it can be completed with little or no downtime.
This guide walks you through migrating WordPress to a new host step by step.
Before You Begin
- Choose your new hosting plan and confirm it meets WordPress requirements
- Note your current PHP version and match it where possible
- Avoid migrating during peak traffic or major campaigns
- Pause content updates during the move to avoid losing new changes
- Keep login details for your domain registrar, old host and new host
Migration Methods Compared
| — | — | — |
|---|---|---|
| Host’s free migration service | Easiest | Most users |
Method 1: Use Your New Host’s Migration Service
Many hosts migrate WordPress sites for free. You provide access details, and their team or tool moves files and databases. Confirm whether the service includes email, DNS guidance and post-migration checks.
Method 2: Use a Migration Plugin
- Install a reputable migration plugin on the old site
- Export the site package or connect to the new host
- Install WordPress (or the plugin’s installer) on the new host
- Import the package
- Follow prompts to update URLs and settings
Check file size limits, especially for large media libraries.
Method 3: Manual Migration
Step 1: Back up files
Download all WordPress files from your old host using FTP or the file manager.
Step 2: Export the database
Use phpMyAdmin or a database tool to export the WordPress database as a .sql file.
Step 3: Create a new database
On the new host, create a database, user and password with full privileges.
Step 4: Import the database
Import the .sql file into the new database.
Step 5: Upload files
Upload WordPress files to the new host’s root directory.
Step 6: Update wp-config.php
Edit database name, username, password and host to match the new database.
Test Before Changing DNS
Most hosts provide a temporary URL or allow you to preview the site by editing your computer’s hosts file. Test:
- Homepage, posts and pages
- Images and media
- Forms and email delivery
- Login and admin dashboard
- Ecommerce checkout if applicable
- Permalinks (resave if posts show 404 errors)
Switch DNS
Update your domain’s nameservers or DNS records to point to the new host. DNS changes can take time to propagate worldwide, sometimes up to 24–48 hours, though often much faster. During this period, some visitors may still see the old host, which is why you should avoid content changes.
After Migration
| — | — |
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Minimising SEO Risk
If your domain and URLs stay the same, a host migration should not harm SEO when done correctly. Avoid downtime, keep URLs unchanged, maintain HTTPS and monitor Search Console for errors. If you also change domains, use 301 redirects and the Change of Address tool.
Common Migration Problems
| — | — |
|---|---|
| Error establishing database connection | Check wp-config.php database details |
| 404 errors on posts | Resave permalinks, check .htaccess |
Real-World Example
A travel blog experienced frequent downtime on cheap hosting. The owner chose managed WordPress hosting with a free migration service. The host migrated the site to a temporary URL, where she tested pages, galleries and forms. After switching DNS during a quiet weekend morning and verifying SSL, the site loaded much faster, and downtime alerts stopped.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will migration cause downtime?
With proper preparation and DNS switching, downtime can be minimal or zero.
Does changing hosts affect SEO?
Not if URLs remain the same and the site stays available and fast.
How long does migration take?
Small sites may take an hour or two; large sites take longer, plus DNS propagation time.
Should I cancel my old hosting immediately?
Keep it active for a short period until you confirm everything works.
Can I migrate email too?
Email is separate from WordPress. Plan email migration separately if hosted with your old provider.
What if my site is very large?
Manual migration or host-assisted migration is often better than plugin exports with size limits.
Conclusion
Migrating WordPress to a new host is manageable with a clear plan. Back up, choose a migration method, test on a temporary URL, switch DNS carefully and verify everything after the move. With careful preparation, your site can move to better hosting without losing content, traffic or rankings.
