Key highlights
- Migrating to a new host can significantly boost site speed, enhancing user experience and SEO.
- Manual migration allows you to transfer your site with control over every detail.
- Plugin-based migration simplifies the process without technical hassles.
- Bluehost offers free WordPress migration service for eligible sites, making the process seamless.
- Bluehost WordPress Solutions are specifically designed to optimize your site’s performance and growth potential.
Introduction
Thinking about moving your WordPress site to a new host? You’re not alone. Many website owners make the switch for better speed, enhanced security and superior customer support. Switching to the right hosting provider can really make a difference. From improved uptime to cost-saving plans, the benefits are hard to ignore.
But migration can sound intimidating. The good news? It doesn’t have to be! Bluehost offers WordPress migration service where our expert team does everything from backing up your data to securely transferring it to a new account. A simple, stress-free process that saves you time.
You can streamline the process even further with Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution. It’s a plugin bundle that includes all the advanced tools from automated migration plugin and AI website builder to Yoast SEO and multichannel selling features. So, you can establish, market and grow your business with ease.
In this blog and discover why migrating your WordPress site could be one of the best moves for your business. Ready to find out how? Let’s dive in!
Main reasons to migrate WordPress website to new host
Migrating your WordPress website to a new host can be a smart move for your site’s performance, security and growth. Here are some of the key reasons why making the switch could benefit your business:
Better performance & speed
One of the main reasons to migrate your WordPress website is to boost performance. Choosing a hosting provider with faster servers, optimized resources and a CDN can significantly improve your site’s speed. Faster load times ensure your website performs well, even during high traffic periods.
Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution offers enhanced performance tools to optimize your site’s speed and reliability. It includes an AI-powered site builder, making it easy to create professional websites and WonderBlocks, an intuitive drag-and-drop page design feature. These tools ensure your site not only looks great but also loads quickly and runs efficiently, providing a seamless experience for your users.
Improved security features
Security is a top priority for any website owner and the right hosting provider can make all the difference. A secure host offers SSL certificates, regular backups and advanced firewall to keep your WordPress website secure. A migration to a secure host ensures your site is protected with the latest security measures.
Better customer support
Customer support can make or break your experience with a hosting company or provider. Choose a web host that offers 24/7 support, whether it’s via live chat, phone or email. This level of support can be crucial when things go wrong or when you need help with troubleshooting issues. Migrating to a host with responsive customer support can save you time and frustration.
Cost savings & scalability
Many WordPress website owners migrate to save money while unlocking better features. A new hosting plan can offer more value, whether it’s lower pricing for the same, better service or new plans with scalable resources to grow your site. As your business grows, you’ll want a host that can easily scale to meet your increasing traffic and storage needs without sky-high fees.
Hosting features & resources
Different hosting providers offer varying levels of features and resources. By migrating to a new host, you can get access to premium features like automated backups, staging environments and advanced caching options. These resources make managing your WordPress website easier, while enhancing its performance and reliability.
Improved SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for any website’s visibility. A faster website, with improved uptime and security, is more likely to rank well in search engines like Google. Migrating to a faster, more resource-rich host will boost your WordPress site’s ranking and organic traffic.
Here’s where Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution helps you take SEO to the next level. The built-in Yoast SEO tool makes it easy to optimize your content and target key search terms effectively. It helps improve your site’s search performance and attracts more visitors.
Also read: Yoast SEO: How to use Yoast WordPress SEO Plugin
How to know when it’s time to migrate WordPress website to new host
Knowing when to migrate a WordPress site to a new web host is key to running your site smoothly. If you’re experiencing any of the issues below, it might be time for a change.
Frequent downtime
If your WordPress site keeps experiencing frequent outages, your web host can be the issue. Downtime frustrates visitors, damages your site’s reputation and impacts user experience. A reliable host keeps things running smoothly with minimal interruptions. Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution offers staging environments. So, you can test updates and changes safely without risking any disruptions, making everything easier.
Slow page load speed
A slow-loading WordPress website can drive visitors away. If your page load speed is dragging, even after optimizing your WordPress site, your current hosting provider might be the issue. A new web host with better infrastructure and resources could give your site the speed boost it needs.
Lack of support
When issues arise, quick and reliable support is crucial. If your current web host isn’t providing timely or effective assistance, it may be time to make a change. Bluehost offers 24/7 support from WordPress experts to ensure your site remains in peak condition. Additionally, the AI-powered WonderHelp feature in the Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution provides fast and smart solutions. With search and content recommendations, you can resolve issues quickly and easily.
Security vulnerabilities
Your WordPress site needs strong protection. If it’s at risk or lacks proper security, switching to a secure hosting provider is essential. A secure web host offers the right tools and measures to protect your site from hacks and malware. Bluehost provides SiteLock plans designed to offer peace of mind by automating malware detection and removal. With SiteLock, you get comprehensive website security to shield your site from a wide range of online threats.
Also read: SiteLock: Protecting Your Website from CyberThreats
Rising costs
Rising hosting costs without a clear increase in value or service could signal that it’s time to migrate your WordPress site to a new provider. Sometimes, the low-cost plans aren’t worth the hidden fees or poor performance. Switching to a new web host can help lower your overall costs while providing better services.
How to migrate WordPress website to new host
When it comes to migrating your WordPress website to a new host, you have two main options: Plugin-based migration and manual migration. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to understand which method works best for you.
Ready to make the switch? Let’s walk through the two processes, step-by-step, to ensure your website migration goes as smoothly as possible:
Method 1: Manual migration
Manual migration requires more technical knowledge. You’ll be handling the migration yourself, uploading files and exporting/importing the database. While this gives you more control, it can be a bit more time-consuming and complex. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
1: Database export
Begin by logging into your current hosting control panel and navigating to phpMyAdmin. Select your WordPress database, then click on the Export tab.
Choose ‘Custom’ as the export method for more control over the process. Configure the export settings as follows:
- Select SQL as the format.
- Enable the Add DROP TABLE option.
- Use ZIP compression for the output file.
- Keep all tables selected unless specific ones need to be excluded.
- Click ‘Go’ to download your compressed database file.
2: Download all the WordPress files
Next, access the root directory of your site using either the File Manager in your hosting control panel or an FTP client like FileZilla. Download all of your WordPress files, as it contains your themes, plugins, and media files.
With your WordPress database and website files ready, you can purchase a web hosting plan at Bluehost and follow further easy steps:
3: Backup your website
Before anything else, make sure to back up your WordPress website. This includes both your website files (themes, plugins, media) and your WordPress database. You can do this manually through FTP or using an addon service like CodeGuard to make the process easier. With CodeGuard’s backup and monitoring services, you can relax, knowing your site is in good hands.
4: Create a new database
Once you’ve signed up with your new hosting provider, set up your new hosting environment. This usually involves installing WordPress on your new hosting account. Many providers offer a one-click WordPress installation, making this step super easy.
Next, create a new database for your site using phpMyAdmin:
- Access phpMyAdmin for a local server.
- Create a new database and make a note of the name for configuration later.
5: Database import
With the new database set up, it’s time to import the data from Bluehost. Open phpMyAdmin on your new hosting or local server and select the database you just created. Then:
- Click the Import tab.
- Upload the exported ZIP file from Step 1.
- Ensure the UTF-8 character set is selected.
- Click Go to start the import process.
6: Configuration updates
To connect WordPress to the new database, update the wp-config.php file in your site’s files. Open the file in a text editor and update the following lines with your new database credentials:
define('DB_NAME', 'your-new-database-name');
define('DB_USER', 'your-database-username');
define('DB_PASSWORD', 'your-database-password');
define('DB_HOST', 'your-database-host');
7: URL updates
Update the site’s URLs in the database to ensure everything works properly on the new hosting.
8: Update the permalinks
Once everything is migrated, go to Settings → Permalinks in your WordPress dashboard. If you’re using a custom structure, be sure to copy it elsewhere before making any changes.
Reload the page, then either choose your desired permalink structure or paste your custom structure back into the field. Click “Save Changes” again to apply the new settings.
Finally, test your website to make sure everything is working properly. Check that all pages, images and links are loading correctly. Testing the site on both desktop and mobile devices is a good idea to ensure compatibility. If you encounter any issues, most hosting providers offer troubleshooting support to help you get things sorted out quickly.
Method 2: Plugin-based migration
Plugin-based migration involves using a WordPress plugin to automate the entire process. Plugins handle most of the heavy lifting, so all you have to do is follow a few easy steps:
1: Login to your WordPress Dashboard
Log in to WordPress dashboard, select plugins and click on “add new”.
2: Install and activate the plugin
Start by searching for a WordPress migration plugin like All-in-One WP Migration. Install the plugin on your current WordPress site and activate it.
3: Backup your website
Once activated, use the plugin to create a full backup of your WordPress website, including the database and all files. This ensures that you have a copy in case something goes wrong during the migration.
4: Export your website
After the backup is complete, the plugin will give you the option to export your entire website. This will create a file containing all your WordPress site’s data, ready to be transferred.
5: Import your website
Once you’ve exported your website, it’s time to import it to the new host using the All-in-One WP Migration plugin. Start by installing WordPress on the new host, then install the All-in-One WP Migration plugin on the new site.
6: Update permalinks
Once everything is migrated, go to Settings → Permalinks in your WordPress dashboard. If you’re using a custom structure, be sure to copy it elsewhere before making any changes.
Reload the page, then either choose your desired permalink structure or paste your custom structure back into the field. Click Save Changes again to apply the new settings.
Finally, test your WordPress website on the new host to make sure everything is working properly. Check all pages, media files and links to ensure nothing was missed in the migration process.
Note: Choose the method that best fits your skill level and the needs of your WordPress website. Either way, with careful planning, your website migration can be smooth and hassle-free!
Also read: Best WordPress Migration Plugin: Moving Your Website Just Got Easier
Useful tools and resources to help migrate your WordPress website to a new host
Switching your WordPress website to a new host is like relocating to a better neighborhood. It may feel like a big task, but with the right tools and guidance, it becomes a smooth process. Whether you choose automated plugins, step-by-step manuals or expert migration services, there’s a solution to match your comfort level and ensure a hassle-free transition.
Below are some of the best tools and resources to ensure a smooth and hassle-free WordPress site migration to your new web host:
Bluehost migration service
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to migrate your WordPress site to a new host, Bluehost’s free WordPress site migration service is an excellent option. When you choose Bluehost as your new hosting provider, our team of experts will take care of the entire migration process for you—free of charge. This includes transferring your WordPress site’s files, your new database name and even your settings, ensuring that everything works smoothly after the move.
Bluehost’s migration service is particularly helpful if you’re not familiar with the technical aspects of site migration. Instead of dealing with plugins or manually moving site files yourself, you can let our experienced team handle the hard work for you. We will ensure your site is set up correctly on our servers, reducing the risk of downtime or errors.
To get started, all you need to do is sign up for a hosting plan with Bluehost and request the migration through our support team. The process is straightforward and Bluehost guarantees a quick and efficient transition so you can focus on running your WordPress website without worrying about the technical side of things.
Bluehost WordPress Solutions
Bluehost WordPress Solutions are designed to propel you towards online success. This solution comes with two packages: Content Creator Solution and Commerce Solution. These packages help content creators and businesses of all sizes build, manage and grow their online presence.
Within these packages, you get InstaWP Migration tool that helps you transfer your WordPress site without any technical expertise. You also get a staging feature, AI-powered website creation tool and Yoast SEO plugin to customize your site for better performance.
Learn more: Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution
Learn more: Bluehost WordPress Content Creator Solution
WordPress Codex
If you’re new to the process, WordPress Codex provide detailed instructions on how to manually migrate your WordPress site. While this method involves comparatively more steps, it gives you full control over the migration process.
It offers a great learning opportunity if you want to deepen your understanding of how WordPress websites function behind the scenes. If you’re comfortable with FTP and databases, manual migration lets you move backup files exactly as you want.
WP-CLI
For advanced users, WP-CLI is a command-line tool that allows you to manage your WordPress site directly from the terminal. It can be used to perform complex migrations, especially when you’re comfortable with managing your WordPress website’s database and file structure.
This method is ideal for developers or site administrators who need to handle large or complex migrations with precision. WP-CLI is efficient for those familiar with it, especially when migrating sites or handling routine maintenance.
Also read: What Is WP-CLI + How to Use It?
Tutorials and support forums
If you run into any issues during your WordPress migration, don’t worry—help is just a few clicks away. The WordPress Support Forums are a great place to ask questions and find answers to common migration issues. Whether you’re dealing with plugin conflicts or database errors, the forums have a wealth of information from the WordPress community to guide you.
Additionally, most web hosting providers offer dedicated migration guides and customer support specifically for WordPress site migrations. These resources often include step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips and video tutorials that can be incredibly helpful when you encounter challenges. By leveraging these support channels, you can ensure your migration goes as smoothly as possible and get back to managing your site without delays.
Best hosting providers for WordPress websites
Choosing the right hosting provider is crucial for your site’s performance, security and overall user experience. Below are some of the best hosting providers for WordPress:
Bluehost
Bluehost is one of the most recommended hosting providers for WordPress websites. Known for user-friendly interface and excellent customer support, we offer a variety of hosting plans including VPS, WooCommerce, cloud, dedicated and WordPress hosting. We also provide free WordPress site migration services and a free domain for the first year.
Key features:
- 24/7 support: Get access to round-the-clock assistance from WordPress experts.
- Free site migration: Bluehost handles your site migration for free when you move to their platform.
- 1-click WordPress installation: Easily install WordPress in just one click.
- Free SSL certificate: Secure your website with a free SSL certificate.
- Fast and secure hosting: Ensure reliable and speedy performance for your WordPress site.
SiteGround
SiteGround is known for its top-notch customer support and high-speed performance. They offer specialized WordPress hosting with features like automatic updates, enhanced securit and a built-in caching system to improve site speed. SiteGround also includes free daily backups and free WordPress migration for new customers.
WP Engine
WP Engine is a premium, fully managed WordPress hosting provider designed for high-performance websites. It offers robust security, automated backups and staging environments to test changes before pushing them live. WP Engine is a great choice for larger websites and those who want premium features without the hassle of server management.
Kinsta
Kinsta provides high-end managed WordPress hosting with a focus on speed and scalability. Powered by Google Cloud, Kinsta’s infrastructure allows for fast, secure and reliable hosting. They offer a premium support team, free migrations and built-in performance monitoring tools.
A2 Hosting
A2 Hosting is known for its ultra-fast hosting, particularly with its Turbo Servers, which offer up to 20x faster page loads. They provide excellent performance for WordPress sites with optimized servers, free SSL and an intuitive control panel. A2 Hosting is also great for developers who need additional flexibility.
Common challenges faced when migrating WordPress websites
Relocating your WordPress site to a new host is an exciting step, but there may be a few challenges to navigate along the way. Whether you’re automating the process with plugins or taking the manual route, understanding the potential challenges can help you tackle them head-on and ensure a smooth transition.
- Downtime during the migration process: One of the biggest fears when migrating to a new hosting server is downtime. A bit of downtime is often inevitable, especially if you’re manually transferring your WordPress site. The key is to plan ahead and do it at a time when the traffic is low.
- Broken links and missing files: When you migrate your WordPress site to a new hosting server, there’s a chance that some files might not transfer properly. Missing images, broken links or incomplete database transfers are common issues, especially if you’re migrating manually.
- Database compatibility issues: Another tricky part of migration is ensuring that your WordPress database is compatible with your new hosting account. Some hosting providers may have different configurations, which can lead to issues when transferring your database.
- Email configuration problems: If your email is tied to your hosting account, you may run into issues when switching to a new hosting provider. Emails linked to your old hosting account may stop working unless you configure them correctly on the new hosting server.
- SSL certificate issues: Transferring your WordPress website to a new hosting provider might cause SSL certificate issues. If you had an SSL certificate set up on your old hosting server, you’ll need to make sure it’s transferred over or reinstalled on the new server. Without this, your site can show a “Not Secure” warning to visitors, which can impact trust and SEO.
How to make the most of your new hosting provider?
Upgrading to a new hosting provider is more than just a change—it’s an opportunity to boost your WordPress site’s performance and reliability. To get the most out of your new hosting plan, it’s essential to explore its features and optimize your website for peak efficiency. Here are some tips to help you get started.
- Optimize your site for speed: One of the best things about moving to a new hosting server is the potential for better performance. Make sure you’re taking advantage of all the speed-enhancing features your hosting provider offers. Many WordPress hosting providers include caching tools, content delivery networks (CDNs) and other performance optimization features that can dramatically speed up your website.
- Connect a domain name: Link your domain name to your hosting account to make your website live. Use the DNS settings provided by your hosting provider for seamless integration. Having a custom domain also makes your website look professional.
- Utilize hosting account resources: Ensure you’re making the most of the storage, bandwidth and website allowances provided by your new hosting plan. Review the details of your plan and upgrade if needed to support the growing demands of your WordPress site.
- Keep your software updated: Outdated software can be a security risk. Regularly update your CMS, themes and plugins to keep your website secure and functioning smoothly. Some hosting providers offer automated updates to simplify this process.
- Take advantage of extra tools and add-ons: Your new hosting provider might offer additional tools and services to make managing your WordPress site easier. Check whether it offers features like staging environment, email hosting, SEO plugin and AI-powered tools. They can help streamline your workflow and enhance your site’s capabilities.
Final thoughts
Moving your WordPress site to a new hosting provider might seem like a big step, but it’s one that can really pay off. Whether you’re after faster performance, stronger security, or better customer support, choosing the right host can make all the difference.
The secret to a smooth migration is good planning. Take your time to find a host that fits your needs, use the tools and resources available and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. Once you’re set up with your new provider, focus on optimizing your site, keeping it secure and regularly checking its performance to make the most of your new setup.
If you’re ready to take your WordPress site to the next level, now is the perfect time to make the switch. Bluehost offers you everything you need to run as well as migrate your site smoothly and securely. Additionally, with our Bluehost WordPress Solution, you gain access to powerful tools and resources that simplify the migration process and set the stage for your site’s growth.
Make the leap today, your site and your visitors will thank you!
FAQs
Yes, you can migrate your WordPress site yourself, but it requires technical knowledge. DIY migration involves backing up your files and database, setting up the new domain and hosting environment and transferring everything manually. While there are plugins that can help, hiring a professional ensures the migration is done correctly and safely, with minimal risk of downtime or data loss.
The time it takes to migrate a WordPress site depends on the size and complexity of the site. For a simple blog or small website, migration may take just a few hours. However, for larger sites with eCommerce stores or complex setups, it can take a full day or even longer.
Migration can potentially affect your SEO rankings if not done correctly. To avoid issues, make sure your redirects are set up properly (301 redirects), your site structure remains the same and your URLs are consistent. It’s also important to inform Google of the change using Google Search Console.
Some downtime during migration is possible, but with proper planning, it can be minimized. Website migration can be done with zero downtime if the DNS settings are updated correctly before switching hosts. Additionally, using a professional migration service or a reliable plugin can further minimize potential disruptions. Also, performing the migration during off-peak hours and taking a complete backup of your WordPress site beforehand adds an extra layer of security.