Migrating a website to a new server is a responsible task that requires a clear plan, especially when it comes to business sites, where even a few minutes of downtime can result in lost profits, traffic, or reputation. In this article, we’ll explore how to transfer a site without data loss, with minimal or zero downtime, and which tools and services can help you through the process.

1. Preparation for Migration: Analysis and Planning

Before taking any action, it’s essential to audit your current website and hosting infrastructure.

What to consider:

  • Type of CMS (WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, Bitrix, or a custom system)
  • Size of the database and files
  • Presence of an SSL certificate
  • Whether CDN or third-party caching services are used
  • Server configuration specifics (PHP version, modules, nginx/apache configs)

Tip: Create a checklist of all technical requirements that the new server or VPS must support.

2. Choosing a New Server

When choosing a server for migration, consider current workloads, future scalability, and technical compatibility.

Options:

  • VPS: suitable for small to medium websites with moderate traffic. Ideal for businesses seeking flexibility and independence.
  • Dedicated server: optimal for large projects, online stores, and high-traffic systems.
  • Colocation: if you own your hardware, consider placing your server in a data center.

Important: Make sure the new server has enough disk space, RAM, and supports the necessary technologies (e.g., PHP 8.2, MariaDB, Redis).

3. Full Backup

Before migrating, be sure to create a complete backup of:

  • Website files (including media, themes, plugins)
  • Databases (export via phpMyAdmin or using mysqldump)
  • Configuration files (e.g., .htaccess, nginx.conf, php.ini)
  • SSL certificate (if self-signed or manually installed)

Store the backup both locally and in the cloud for redundancy.

4. Setting Up the New Server Environment

Before transferring your site, prepare the environment:

  • Install the appropriate OS version (e.g., Ubuntu 22.04)
  • Configure the web server (nginx or Apache)
  • Install the database (MySQL, MariaDB, or PostgreSQL)
  • Set up PHP, Redis, caching tools, and FTP/SFTP access
  • Configure the firewall, security policies, and SSH access

If you don’t have a system administrator, Server.ua specialists can help you configure your VPS or dedicated server.

5. Website Transfer

Steps:

  1. Upload your website files to the new server using SCP, FTP, or rsync.
  2. Import the database into the new DBMS.
  3. Update configuration files (paths, database access, host parameters).
  4. Test the website on the new server using a test domain or temporary IP address.

Recommendation: Set up a staging environment before going live to ensure everything functions correctly.

6. DNS Record Update

Once the site is live on the new server, update your DNS records:

  • Change the domain’s A-record to point to the new server IP
  • If using a CDN, update the IP in its settings
  • To speed up propagation, reduce the TTL setting in advance

After updating DNS records, it may take up to 24 hours for all traffic to be routed to the new server.

7. Post-Migration Testing and Monitoring

After the new server is live, perform thorough testing:

  • Site speed and server response time
  • Forms, login, shopping cart, and payment functionality
  • 404 pages and error logs
  • SSL certificate — check if it’s active and not triggering browser warnings

Set up monitoring (e.g., UptimeRobot or Zabbix) to track uptime and stability after migration.

8. Common Migration Mistakes

  • No backup — critical error
  • Ignoring PHP/MySQL version mismatches — may break the site
  • Going live without testing first
  • Missing dependencies (modules, libraries)
  • Absent or improperly configured SSL certificate

Conclusion

Migrating a site is not just copying files. It’s a complex operation that requires preparation, technical expertise, and a structured plan.

To avoid issues, follow a step-by-step approach:
from selecting a reliable VPS or server, to final testing after launch.

With Server.ua, you’ll get full support at every stage — from choosing the right configuration to setting up the server environment. If you need maximum stability and security, consider hosting your server in a data center with guaranteed power, redundancy, and technical support.

Make your migration smooth, controlled, and secure — choose professional solutions from Server.ua.