Moving a website from a shared server to a VPS (Virtual Private Server) involves quite a few steps. It’s not too complex when you break it down into manageable chunks, but it does require some knowledge about servers, databases, and your website’s backend.
Here are the steps to move a site from shared hosting to a VPS:
1. Backup your Website: Before doing anything, back up everything on your current server using cPanel (if it’s available), or using FTP clients like FileZilla. This includes your website’s files, databases, and email configurations.
1. Set up your VPS: You need to configure your new VPS server properly before moving your website. This includes installing your preferred OS, server software (like Apache or Nginx), PHP, MySQL, and any other software that your website needs to function properly.
1. Transfer your Files: Once your VPS is set up, transfer your website’s files over to your new server. You can do this via SSH or FTP. You’ll want to put your files in your new server’s web root directory.
1. Import your Database: If your website uses a database, you’ll need to import your old database data to your new server. First, create a new database and user in your new server. Then use a method like phpMyAdmin or SSH to import your database data.
1. Reconfigure your Website: Some aspects of your website will need to be reconfigured to work properly on your new server. This includes file paths and database configurations, which may differ from the setup on the shared server. Also you need update database host server (In case it’s changed), Username and Password (In case it’s changed)
1. Modify DNS Records: Now your website is set up on your new VPS, but nobody can see it yet. You’ll need to go to your domain registrar and modify your DNS records to point to your new server. This often involves changing A records to your new server’s IP address.
1. Final check: after DNS propagation, check your website thoroughly. Make sure all links, buttons are working fine including contact forms, if any.
These steps are an overview and will get you most of the way, but moving to a new server often involves a little troubleshooting. If you aren’t experienced with server management, it may help to have a professional take care of the migration for you. Some hosting companies provide migration services, but this usually comes with a fee.
