Website migration refers to the process of moving a website from one hosting environment or platform to another. This includes the transfer of all core components, such as website files, databases, DNS records, email accounts, and SSL certificates. This blog offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide to migrating your website to BigRock Hosting while preserving your SEO rankings, mobile performance, and uptime.

Migrating a website demands careful planning and precise execution to protect your online presence. 

Mobile devices have reshaped how people access the web. In the last quarter of 2024, mobile devices (excluding tablets) accounted for 62.54% of global website traffic. This figure reflects a steady climb since 2017, when mobiles first hovered around the 50% mark before surpassing it in 2020.

Given the significant amount of traffic generated by mobile users, ensuring your website migration maintains fast loading speeds and a seamless user experience is crucial. A flawed migration risks losing not just desktop visitors but a growing majority of mobile users.

Understanding Website Migration

Website migration is more than just switching servers; it’s a complete relocation of your digital footprint. That includes:

  • Website files and databases
  • Email accounts and settings
  • SSL certificates and DNS records
  • Custom configurations and platform integrations

Whether you upgrade your setup or switch providers to reduce costs or boost speed, each element requires attention. Timing your migration during low-traffic hours reduces disruption and provides a buffer to address unforeseen issues.

Search rankings depend heavily on how smoothly this transition goes. A botched migration can erase months of SEO progress and push your visitors elsewhere. Your best safeguards are a thorough plan and a checklist.

Why Is BigRock the Hosting Choice for You?

BigRock combines cost-effectiveness with dependability. Its servers offer consistent uptime and fast load times, supported by a customer service team that is knowledgeable in its craft.

Security comes built-in with free SSL certificates and daily backups to guard your data. The easy-to-use control panel makes managing your site straightforward, even for those new to hosting. By selecting the right BigRock plan, you get exactly the resources your website needs without paying for extras you’ll never use.

Also Read: Essential Domain Security Tips for Website Owners

Migrating Your Website to BigRock Hosting: Steps to Follow

Here are the key steps to ensure a seamless website migration to BigRock hosting:

Step 1: Audit Your Website and Back Everything Up

Begin by auditing your website. List every file, plugin, database, and custom setting. This inventory becomes your migration blueprint.

Backing up is crucial. Create full backups of files and databases. Test restoring the backup on a separate server to ensure it works perfectly. This is your safety net if anything goes wrong during the move.

Tell your visitors about planned downtime. Transparency keeps trust intact.

Step 2: Set Up Your BigRock Hosting Environment

Create your BigRock account and select a hosting plan that suits your site’s needs. Use the control panel to create databases and email accounts. Upload a few files to familiarise yourself with the interface.

Hold off on changing DNS records or nameservers until everything is tested and ready. Doing this too soon risks visitors landing on an incomplete site.

Step 3: Transfer Your Website Files

Upload all your website files using secure FTP or SFTP. Verify that files have the correct permissions and folder structure to prevent broken links and missing images.

Place a simple maintenance page so visitors know the site is temporarily offline. This helps manage expectations and protect your brand.

Step 4: Migrate Databases Accurately

Export your databases from your current host. Import them carefully into BigRock. Update your website configuration files with the new database credentials.

Errors here, even a single misplaced character, can bring your site down. Double- and triple-check the details.

Also Read: How to Create Professional Email ID with a Custom Domain

Step 5: Test Your Website Thoroughly

Before switching DNS, test your site thoroughly on BigRock’s servers. Check speed, forms, checkout, and mobile display.

Forbes reports that over half of mobile users abandon sites that load slowly. So, use tools like GTmetrix or PageSpeed Insights to identify and resolve bottlenecks.

Utilise tools like Screaming Frog to identify SEO issues before your site goes live. Check server logs to identify hidden errors that may impact performance.

Step 6: Update DNS and Monitor Propagation

Once you confirm everything works perfectly, update your DNS records to point to BigRock. Remember, DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate.

Keep your old hosting active during this window. Monitor your site’s performance and traffic closely so you can take action quickly if anything appears to be off.

Pro Tip: During migration, prioritise optimising image sizes and enabling compression; these quick wins can significantly improve mobile loading times and boost user engagement. Use tools like TinyPNG or WebP formats to reduce file sizes without losing quality.

Final Words

Migrating your website demands care and a hosting partner you can trust. You not only need reliable infrastructure but also the right tools and support to make the transition seamless.

BigRock offers a secure and reliable platform with expert support, making the transition as painless as possible. Connect with us to set your website up for long-term success today!