How to move a website to a new host

Web sites, just like businesses and properties, can be transferred from one owner to the next. This article attempts to describe the whole process and point you to useful resources.

First we need to realise what can't be transferred. Sub domains & folders within a site can't be transferred to a new owner. It needs to be the whole domain

For the purposes of this article a site consists of

a) the domain name and
b) the files, databases, applications etc., that make it what it is.

Transfer of the website involves transfer of both domain and the files and intellectual properties that constitute the website.


The full process

To take over an existing site is a multi-part process described below.

Step 1: Transfer of the domain name to the control of the new owner. How to transfer the domain name.

Step 2: Downloading all the site's files and folders including files such as the ".htaccess". Getting manuals, lists, instructions and passwords from the previous owner. Downloading the site

Step 3: Uploading all the files, databases etc., to the new hosting company's server Uploading the site

Step 4: Configuring files, setting permissions etc.; testing that the site works as expected; changing affiliate codes and IDs so earnings now feed into your account/s. Making ownership changes

Step 5: Changing the DNS settings at the domain registrar to point to the new hosting company thus allowing visitors to reach the new location of the site. How to change the name servers