How to change web-hosting providers
When one finds the services of web hosting dissatisfactory or when there is congestion in the site then there is definitely a need for switching over to new host provider. However switching over to new host provider is not very easy therefore the following are the points one must consider before switching over to new host:
1.Taking backup of all files and databases.
Before transferring anything first of all one must create a backup of all the files and databases, which were earlier with the host provider. That FTP into user's current hosting account and that backup of files from public html directory to personal local hard drive helps user to keep remembering those things afterwards. However backup methods tend to vary from database vendor-to-vendor, control panel being used by different hosts as well as with the operating system of the server. In most of the cases the host providers provide backup utility that enables user to save a copy of all contents of database table. However in absence of this utility a user must export the contents into a comma delimited file or the standard file format depending upon the database he uses. Most of the popular backup utilities tend to convert database into one long SQL file that is easy to be reconstructed by any compatible database engine.
2.Shifting to the new server.
One must before changing the DNS information of his domain should check if the website is functioning properly at the new location. However its not possible to navigate the site completely with pointing the domain name towards it, still one can check at least individual pages they are working or not. A user, for checking still needs the IP address of his hosting account along with the user name in case he is having shared IP address. By entering http://231.46.192.21/~username on cpanel server a user's main website should come up. One can use this address until the DNS information transmits to the new web.
3. Precautions before final winding up.
Once completed the above steps, the backup fill of the database or the SQL file generated should be executed, as this will helps in restoring the database to the new server as it is. Thereafter the name server information of the domain name must be changed. It's quite often that one registers domain with or with the old web-hosting provider. In most of the cases they provide username and password that enables user to log in and change the nameservers. In case one is not having control panel then simply he can email the company that have registered his domain name to change his name servers to the new servers. It will take around 24 to 48 hours and the website will be served from new server instead of from old one. Just after assurance it's safe to request old web hosting company to delete and discontinue the old account.
Labels: web hosting
