How to move a WordPress site to a new host

A safe WordPress migration is a controlled copy-and-cutover process: inventory the site, create verified backups, copy files and database, test the destination, reduce DNS risk, switch traffic, and monitor before cancelling the old host.

1. Inventory dependencies

Record PHP requirements, DNS provider, SSL, email hosting, cron jobs, redirects, CDN, caching, custom server rules, third-party integrations and any domain-specific licenses.

2. Create recoverable backups

Keep a backup outside both the old and new hosts. Verify that it includes the database, uploads, themes, plugins and configuration required to restore the site.

3. Copy and test before DNS changes

Use the new host's migration process, a migration tool or a manual transfer. Test key templates, forms, login, checkout, search, redirects and media before sending public traffic to the destination.

4. Plan the cutover

Lower DNS TTL in advance when appropriate, avoid content changes during the final sync, switch DNS, provision SSL and keep the old environment available until the new site is stable.

5. Monitor after launch

Check uptime, error logs, analytics, transactions, forms, email delivery, scheduled jobs and Search Console. Do not cancel the old host immediately.