WordPress migration checklist: move hosts without downtime

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Part 1

Before you start

Take a full backup of files and databaseStore it somewhere other than the old host.
Record the current WordPress and PHP versionsMatch or plan the versions on the new host before you copy anything.
List plugins and themesNote which are active, licensed or no longer needed.
Check the new host's disallowed pluginsSome managed hosts block certain plugins, such as caching or backup plugins.
Find where DNS is hostedYou need access to the DNS provider to point the domain at the new host.
Find where email is hostedIf mail runs on the old host, plan its move before you change DNS.
Pick a low-traffic cutover windowTell content editors when to stop publishing.

Part 2

Create the site or environmentSet it up in the new host's control panel or portal.
Set the PHP versionMatch the version you recorded, or test the site on a newer one.
Check server rules that will not carry overSome hosts do not support .htaccess. Recreate redirects in the host's own rules engine.
Create a staging copy if the host offers oneUse it to test changes after the move.

Part 3

Use the host's migration plugin or service if availableMany hosts provide a plugin or an assisted migration.
Otherwise copy files and export the databaseMove wp-content and import the database on the new host.
Update wp-config.php for the new databaseSet the new database name, user, password and host.
Run a search and replace if the URL changesReplace old URLs in the database, including serialised data.
Exclude dynamic pages from cachingCarts, checkouts and account pages need cache exclusions on managed hosts.

Part 4

Browse the site on the new host's temporary URLConfirm everything loads as expected before you go live.
Test forms and outgoing emailCheck contact forms and password reset emails send.
Test logins and user rolesSign in as an admin, an editor and a customer.
Test checkout and payments if you run a shopUse test mode where the payment plugin supports it.
Check images and mediaLook for broken images and missing uploads.
Re-run the migration just before go-liveSync content added since the first copy, then freeze edits.

Part 5

Add the domain on the new host firstIf you point DNS before adding the domain, visitors may see an error page.
Remove domain-level redirects that cause loopsMake sure the domain is not redirecting to another domain.
Point DNS to the new hostExpect a period where some visitors still reach the old host while records propagate.
Confirm SSL is issued and activeSome hosts issue SSL automatically once DNS points to them.

Part 6

Check the site from several networksConfirm visitors land on the new host.
Check search engine visibility settingMake sure WordPress is not set to discourage search engines.
Confirm backups run on the new hostCheck the schedule and test a restore.
Keep the old host until you are sureCancel it only after DNS and email have settled.

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