Download a full copy of your site files and export your databases. If you use WordPress, a migration plugin can bundle both.
1. Back up everything
2. Check for free migration
Many providers - including several on our list - will migrate your site for free. It is often the fastest and safest route.
Top-Rated Providers
1
Our Top Pick
Hostinger
Read ReviewLow-cost, beginner-friendly hosting with its own hPanel, included backups and data centers worldwide
- From ~$2-$3/mo (48-mo term)
- Free domain on Premium & up
- Weekly or daily backups included
- 4.6 on Trustpilot
9.7
Exceptional
9.7
Exceptional
Low-cost, beginner-friendly hosting with its own hPanel, included backups and data centers worldwide
- From ~$2-$3/mo (48-mo term)
- Free domain on Premium & up
- Weekly or daily backups included
- 4.6 on Trustpilot
See Current Pricing
2
Bluehost
Read ReviewA long-time WordPress favorite with a guided dashboard, free first-year domain and 24/7 phone and chat support
- Starter, Business & Pro plans
- Free domain for year one
- WordPress-first dashboard
- In business since 2003
9.4
Excellent
9.4
Excellent
A long-time WordPress favorite with a guided dashboard, free first-year domain and 24/7 phone and chat support
- Starter, Business & Pro plans
- Free domain for year one
- WordPress-first dashboard
- In business since 2003
3
Hosting.com
Read ReviewThe new name for A2 Hosting - cPanel hosting with LiteSpeed-powered speed tiers, VPS and dedicated servers
- Formerly A2 Hosting
- cPanel control panel
- LiteSpeed on Turbo tiers
- Shared, VPS & dedicated
9.2
Excellent
9.2
Excellent
The new name for A2 Hosting - cPanel hosting with LiteSpeed-powered speed tiers, VPS and dedicated servers
- Formerly A2 Hosting
- cPanel control panel
- LiteSpeed on Turbo tiers
- Shared, VPS & dedicated
3. Upload files and import databases
Upload your files to the new host (via the control panel's file manager or SFTP), create a new database, import your export and update your site's configuration with the new database details.
4. Test before switching
Use a temporary URL or your computer's hosts file to preview the site on the new server and check pages, forms and logins.
5. Update DNS
Point your domain's nameservers or A record to the new host. Changes can take up to 24-48 hours to propagate. Keep the old plan active until traffic has moved, then cancel. Compare new hosts on our rankings page.
This article is general information. Prices, features and renewal terms vary by provider, plan, term length and region and change often - always confirm current pricing on the provider's site before you buy.