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How to move a website to a new host without downtime

To move a website without downtime, copy it to the new server, test it there using a temporary address or hosts-file override, lower your DNS TTL a day before, then switch DNS. Keep the old server running until traffic has fully moved, and handle email records separately so mail keeps flowing.

By the Webmaster.ae team · Updated · 2 min read

What are the steps of a website migration?

  1. Back up files and the database on the old host.
  2. Set up the new server with matching software versions.
  3. Copy files and import the database.
  4. Test using a hosts-file override or temporary domain.
  5. Lower DNS TTL to 300 seconds a day before.
  6. Do a final sync, then update the A/AAAA records.
  7. Monitor logs and keep the old host until DNS has settled.

How do I keep email working during the move?

Email depends on MX, SPF, DKIM and DMARC records. If email stays with the same provider, copy those records exactly. If it moves too, migrate mailboxes first and switch MX separately.

How long does DNS take to update?

Most resolvers pick up the change within the old TTL. With a 300-second TTL, almost all visitors move within minutes; a few caches take longer.

Frequently asked questions

Will moving hosts affect SEO?

Not if URLs stay the same and the new server is at least as fast.

What about online stores?

Freeze orders briefly during the final database sync so no order is lost.

What is the difference between shared hosting and a VPS?

Shared hosting splits a server between many sites; a VPS reserves CPU and RAM for you, so performance is consistent.

Do I need a CDN?

For most public websites, yes. A CDN such as Cloudflare speeds up pages and blocks many attacks.

How do I know when to upgrade my hosting?

When pages slow down at busy times, the host throttles you, or you need software shared hosting does not allow.

What is the best hosting in the UAE for a business website?

It depends on traffic and platform. Small brochure sites run well on good shared hosting; stores and web apps need a VPS or dedicated server. Our hosting calculator suggests a size.

Do you offer dedicated servers in the UAE?

Yes, alongside managed VPS and cloud servers. We recommend dedicated hardware for high traffic, heavy applications or strict isolation needs.

Is Cloudflare included?

Yes. Sites we host sit behind Cloudflare for caching, DDoS protection and free SSL.

How often do you back up my site?

Nightly, to a separate off-site location, and we test restores so backups actually work when needed.

Can I host email with you too?

Yes. We set up business email on your domain with SPF, DKIM and DMARC so messages reach the inbox.

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