{"id":10860,"date":"2025-08-12T14:31:37","date_gmt":"2025-08-12T14:31:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/dreamhost-to-high%e2%80%91performance-wordpress-safe-migration-checklist-2025\/"},"modified":"2025-08-12T14:31:42","modified_gmt":"2025-08-12T14:31:42","slug":"dreamhost-to-high%e2%80%91performance-wordpress-safe-migration-checklist-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/dreamhost-to-high%e2%80%91performance-wordpress-safe-migration-checklist-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"DreamHost to High\u2011Performance WordPress: Safe Migration Checklist (2025)"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"10860\" class=\"elementor elementor-10860\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274970 e-con-full e-flex wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"16274970\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627491 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627491\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>Surprising fact:<\/strong> over 40% of site moves fail or show errors within 48 hours when DNS and databases are mishandled. That\u2019s why a checklist matters.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627492 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627492\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>This short intro<\/em> shows what you\u2019ll get: clear steps, real control panel paths, and simple tests so your site stays live while you work.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627493 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627493\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >You\u2019ll use FTP\/SFTP and phpMyAdmin on the source account, find sites under Domains \u2192 Manage Domains, and manage FTP users under Users \u2192 Manage Users. On the destination cPanel, create the database, grant privileges, upload files to public_html, and update wp-config.php before testing.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627494 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627494\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Test privately with a temp URL or the hosts file, then update DNS and expect up to 48 hours for propagation. Some providers offer free migration and zero-downtime moves; check HostPapa, Bluehost, and A2 Hosting for assisted options.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627495 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627495\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627496 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1627496\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627497 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627497\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul >   <li>Follow a step-by-step checklist to avoid surprises during the move.<\/li>   <li>Gather files, FTP users, and a clean database export before starting.<\/li>   <li>Use temp URLs or hosts file previews to test privately.<\/li>   <li>Allow up to 48 hours for DNS propagation after switching domains.<\/li>   <li>Check if your new provider offers free migration or assisted moves.<\/li> <\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627498 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1627498\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Why move now: speed, security, and a safer 2025 migration plan<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1627499 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1627499\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>If speed, uptime, and security matter, now is the time to plan a safe site move with clear steps.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274910 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274910\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>Speed and security<\/strong> are immediate wins when you choose a modern hosting plan. A faster page load boosts conversions and reduces bounce rates. Better infrastructure also cuts exposure to attacks and gives you stronger support channels.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274911 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274911\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Before you start, make sure you can access both control panels and the relevant accounts. Back up your files and database to a local drive\u2014this is your rollback plan if anything goes wrong.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274912 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274912\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><div class=\"ast-oembed-container \" style=\"height: 100%;\"><iframe title=\"How to Find Folder for WordPress Install in Dreamhost?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/RvezxLB7V4s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274913 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274913\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote >&#8220;Block out a maintenance window during low-traffic time to reduce risk and keep customer impact small.&#8221;<\/blockquote>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274914 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274914\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul >   <li>Collect panel, FTP\/SFTP, phpMyAdmin, and domain name registrar details now.<\/li>   <li>Decide if you\u2019ll do it yourself or use a hosting provider that offers free assistance.<\/li>   <li>Confirm PHP and WordPress website compatibility in settings before the big step.<\/li> <\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274915 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274915\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How to migrate from DreamHost to WordPress hosting: step\u2011by\u2011step checklist<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274916 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274916\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>Follow this checklist in order<\/em> so you keep control and avoid downtime.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274917 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274917\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>Confirm site and FTP user:<\/strong> open Domains \u2192 Manage Domains in your control panel and note which user owns the website files. Then go to Users \u2192 Manage Users and reset the FTP\/SFTP password if needed.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274918 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274918\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Download files and export the database<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274919 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274919\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Connect with an FTP client (example: FileZilla) to ftp.yourdomain.com and download all website files to a safe folder on your computer.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274920 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274920\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >In Advanced \u2192 MySQL Databases open phpMyAdmin, select your database, and Export using Quick or Custom to save an .sql backup.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274921 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274921\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Prepare the destination account<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274922 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274922\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >In cPanel \u2192 MySQL Databases create a new database, create a user, and Add User to Database with All Privileges. Then open cPanel phpMyAdmin, select the new database, and Import your .sql file.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274923 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274923\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Final file edits, upload, and test<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274924 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274924\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Edit wp-config.php to set DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD, and DB_HOST (usually localhost). Keep the $table_prefix unchanged.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274925 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274925\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Upload files to the document root (example: public_html) or use File Manager. Test the site using a temporary URL or a hosts file override before you update DNS.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274926 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274926\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote ><p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Keep your original files and database backups until the site runs smoothly on the new account.<\/p><\/blockquote>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274927 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274927\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Pick your method: manual FTP, plugin assists, or free migration services<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274928 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274928\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>Decide how hands-on you want to be:<\/em> full manual control, a plugin assistant, or a provider team that handles the move for you.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274929 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274929\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Manual method: full control with FTP, databases, and file edits<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274930 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274930\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>What you get:<\/strong> total control over files and the database. Use FTP\/SFTP to copy files and phpMyAdmin to export\/import the database.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274931 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274931\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Checklist: an FTP client, phpMyAdmin access on both accounts, a new database on the destination, and wp-config.php edits.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274933 aligncenter size-large wp-image-10874 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"16274933\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/A-realistic-illustration-of-a-WordPress-migration-process-showcasing-three-distinct-methods-1024x585.jpeg\" title=\"\" alt=\"A realistic illustration of a WordPress migration process, showcasing three distinct methods: manual FTP transfer, plugin-assisted migration, and a free migration service. The scene features a desktop workspace with various digital devices and tools, including a laptop, smartphone, and tablet. The foreground depicts a user navigating through the migration steps, while the middle ground displays the three migration options as distinct pathways. The background showcases the BoostedHost branding, conveying a sense of professionalism and reliability. The lighting is soft and natural, creating a calm and focused atmosphere, while the camera angle provides a bird&#039;s-eye view, allowing the viewer to comprehend the entire workflow.\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274934 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274934\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Plugin route: backups and restores with trusted tools<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274935 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274935\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >When cPanel isn\u2019t available, a backup\/restore tool can speed the process. Verify plugin compatibility on your wordpress website first.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274936 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274936\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Make a full backup, restore on the destination, and test on a staging URL before you switch the domain name.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274937 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274937\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Assisted moves: providers and dedicated teams<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274938 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274938\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >If you want speed and safety, pick a hosting provider that offers free migration and a migration team. Ask what logins they need and the timeline.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274939 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274939\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">WordPress.com option<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274940 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274940\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Use the Move to WordPress.com plugin for a private staging subdomain. Managed plans include backups, SSL, and priority support before you map your domain.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274941 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274941\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<table > <tr> <th>Method<\/th> <th>Best for<\/th> <th>Main benefit<\/th> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Manual (FTP + phpMyAdmin)<\/td> <td>Advanced users<\/td> <td>Complete control and tuning<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Plugin (backup\/restore)<\/td> <td>No cPanel access<\/td> <td>Faster, fewer manual steps<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Assisted (provider team)<\/td> <td>Little time or risk tolerance<\/td> <td>Fast, supported free migration<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>WordPress.com<\/td> <td>Managed site owners<\/td> <td>Staging subdomain and managed services<\/td> <\/tr> <\/table>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274942 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274942\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote ><p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Compare hosting plan features\u2014performance, SSL, backups, and support\u2014so your move upgrades your site, not just the account.<\/p><\/blockquote>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274943 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274943\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Pre\u2011launch checks and performance boosts on your new host<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274944 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274944\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>Previewing before you switch DNS saves time and stress.<\/em> Use a temp URL, a hosts file override, or services like hosts.cx to view your website privately on the new server. This keeps your live domain unchanged while you test.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274945 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274945\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>Click through every page type<\/strong> \u2014 home, product, blog, and account pages \u2014 to confirm database-driven content renders correctly. Validate forms, search, checkout, logins, and media playback so real user flows work without surprises.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274947 aligncenter size-large wp-image-10886 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"16274947\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/A-high-performance-modern-web-interface-displays-a-detailed-preview-of-the-BoostedHost-1024x585.jpeg\" title=\"\" alt=\"A high-performance, modern web interface displays a detailed preview of the BoostedHost website. Sleek and minimalist design elements, including a clean navigation menu, hero section, and content blocks, are visible. The layout showcases a sophisticated visual hierarchy, with carefully curated typography and imagery. Subtle animations and micro-interactions add a touch of dynamic elegance. Warm, natural lighting bathes the scene, creating a sense of inviting professionalism. The preview conveys the technical capabilities and exceptional user experience that BoostedHost offers for high-performance WordPress hosting.\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274948 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274948\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >If links or media point to the old domain name or wrong address, update General settings or run a safe search\u2011replace. Re-save permalinks to refresh rewrite rules if you hit 404s. Try an upload files test in the dashboard to confirm permissions and media paths.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274949 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274949\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Run PageSpeed Insights on mobile and desktop. Note scores, then apply quick wins: enable caching, compress images, and raise PHP memory or enable OPcache in settings. Compare before\/after example results to confirm the new hosting plan actually improves load time.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274950 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274950\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote ><p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Temporary WP_HOME and WP_SITEURL constants in wp-config.php let you preview a wordpress website at a temp address. Remove them after DNS switch.<\/p><\/blockquote>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274951 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274951\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul > <li>Preview privately with temp URL, hosts.cx, or hosts file.<\/li> <li>Test pages, forms, media, and new database-driven content.<\/li> <li>Run PageSpeed Insights and implement caching, compression, and PHP tuning.<\/li> <\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274952 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274952\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<table > <tr> <th>Check<\/th> <th>Why it matters<\/th> <th>Quick action<\/th> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Temp preview<\/td> <td>Protects live domain during testing<\/td> <td>Use hosts.cx or local hosts file<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Links &amp; forms<\/td> <td>Ensures user flows and conversions<\/td> <td>Search-replace, update General settings<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Media &amp; uploads<\/td> <td>Prevents broken images and playback errors<\/td> <td>Try upload files and check paths<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td>Performance<\/td> <td>Impacts SEO and user retention<\/td> <td>Run PageSpeed Insights; enable caching<\/td> <\/tr> <\/table>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274953 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274953\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Troubleshooting after migration: quick fixes to common issues<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274954 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274954\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>A few fast troubleshooting steps solve most post\u2011move problems like white screens and bad URLs.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274955 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274955\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>White screen or database errors:<\/strong> open wp-config.php and verify the database name, username, password, and DB_HOST match the new account exactly. If queries still fail, use cPanel \u2192 MySQL Databases and ensure the DB user has <strong>All Privileges<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274956 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274956\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274957 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274957\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Mixed content or wrong URLs<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274958 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274958\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Update site and home values in Settings or run a safe search\u2011replace to swap the old domain to the new HTTPS domain. Re\u2011save permalinks if specific pages return 404s.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274959 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274959\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Permission and ownership issues<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274960 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274960\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Set folders to 755 and files to 644 via the control panel or FTP. If uploads fail, check the uploads directory and PHP limits like post_max_size and upload_max_filesize.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274961 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274961\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">DNS not propagating<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274962 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274962\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >Confirm nameservers or A records at your registrar and wait the full propagation time (up to 48 hours). Use hosts.cx or a hosts file override to test the site privately while DNS finishes.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274963 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274963\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote ><p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Use phpMyAdmin to repair tables or re\u2011import a mysql database backup if corruption appears. Record exact error messages and the page that triggered them\u2014support will thank you.<\/p><\/blockquote>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274964 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"16274964\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Conclusion<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274965 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274965\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><strong>Final step:<\/strong> confirm your website works, the database is healthy, and backups are stored offsite.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274966 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274966\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p ><em>Preview first<\/em> on a temp URL or with a hosts file so you can fix links, media, and settings without affecting users.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274967 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274967\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >When everything checks out, update your domain records and expect up to 48 hours for DNS propagation. Keep the old hosting account active until you verify every page and upload files one last time.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274968 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274968\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p >If you prefer help, lean on a <strong>hosting provider<\/strong> team that offers free migration and staging. See an example migration guide at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamhost.com\/blog\/wordpress-migration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">migration guide<\/a> for options and steps.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16274969 schema-section elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"16274969\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"schema-section\"><h2>FAQ<\/h2><div><h3>What access do you need before you start the transfer?<\/h3><div><div><p>You should have control panel credentials for your current account, FTP\/SFTP user details, and the database admin login (phpMyAdmin). Also get your domain registrar login and allow a maintenance window so you can test without disrupting visitors.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How do you back up site files and the MySQL database?<\/h3><div><div><p>Use an FTP client like FileZilla to download all site files from the document root, and export the MySQL database via phpMyAdmin (Export \u2192 Quick or Custom). Save both backups locally and keep copies in cloud storage for safety.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>What\u2019s the process for creating a new database on the destination account?<\/h3><div><div><p>In the new hosting control panel (cPanel), go to MySQL Databases, create a database name, add a new database user, and assign All Privileges. Note the DB_NAME, DB_USER, and DB_PASSWORD for wp-config.php.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How do you import the database to the new server?<\/h3><div><div><p>Open phpMyAdmin in the new account, select the target database, choose Import, and upload the SQL file you exported. If the file is large, compress it or use the host\u2019s import tool or SSH for faster import.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>Which wp-config.php settings must you change?<\/h3><div><div><p>Update DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD, and DB_HOST (usually localhost). Keep the $table_prefix the same unless you purposefully changed it. Save and reupload wp-config.php to your site root.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How do you upload site files to the new host?<\/h3><div><div><p>Use FTP\/SFTP to transfer your site files into the document root (for example, public_html). Alternatively, use the host\u2019s File Manager or a zip + extract approach in the control panel for faster uploads.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>Can you test the site before changing DNS?<\/h3><div><div><p>Yes \u2014 use a temporary URL the host provides, or edit your computer\u2019s hosts file to point your domain to the new server IP. This lets you verify pages, forms, and media without affecting live traffic.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How long does DNS propagation take after updating nameservers or A records?<\/h3><div><div><p>DNS changes usually propagate within a few hours but can take up to 48 hours. Keep both environments active and avoid deleting the old account until you confirm the new site works and traffic has settled.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>What quick performance tweaks should you apply on the new server?<\/h3><div><div><p>Enable caching, use GZIP or Brotli compression, optimize images, and set appropriate PHP settings (memory_limit and PHP version). Run PageSpeed Insights and apply small wins like minifying CSS\/JS and leveraging browser caching.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>What common post-move issues should you check first?<\/h3><div><div><p>Look for white screens or DB connection errors (recheck wp-config.php), mixed content or incorrect URLs (update site\/home URL and run search-replace), and file permission problems. Also confirm CRON jobs and scheduled tasks are working.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>When should you consider a plugin or a paid migration service?<\/h3><div><div><p>Use a migration plugin if you lack cPanel access or want a guided restore. Choose a paid or free migration service from the new provider when you prefer a hands-off move; many hosts include a migration team with managed plans.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How do you handle large databases or timeouts during import?<\/h3><div><div><p>Split SQL files, compress the export, use SSH and command-line MySQL import, or ask the host to run the import for you. Increasing upload limits and max_execution_time in PHP can also help for big imports.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>Do you need to update DNS settings at the registrar or the host?<\/h3><div><div><p>Update nameservers at your domain registrar when your new host manages DNS. If you keep registrar DNS, change the A record to point to the new server IP. Double-check TTL values beforehand to speed up propagation.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>What should you do with email during the move?<\/h3><div><div><p>Verify where email is hosted (host provider or third-party). If the host handles email, recreate mailboxes and update MX records. If you use Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, keep MX records pointing to those services to avoid interruption.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>How long should you keep the original account after the switch?<\/h3><div><div><p>Keep the old account active for at least 48\u201372 hours after DNS changes, and longer if you expect delays. That gives time to catch missed files, troubleshoot issues, and restore something if needed.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div><h3>Are there specific steps for DreamPress users moving to managed WordPress?<\/h3><div><div><p>DreamPress stores WP controls in the DreamPress section. Export files and the DB the same way, and note any managed features (caching layers, Varnish) to replicate on the new platform or request assistance from the new host\u2019s support team.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Surprising fact: over 40% of site moves fail or show errors within 48 hours when DNS and databases are mishandled. That\u2019s why a checklist matters. This short intro shows what you\u2019ll get: clear steps, real control panel paths, and simple tests so your site stays live while you work. You\u2019ll use FTP\/SFTP and phpMyAdmin on the source account, find sites under Domains \u2192 Manage Domains, and manage FTP users under Users \u2192 Manage Users. On the destination cPanel, create the database, grant privileges, upload files to public_html, and update wp-config.php before testing. Test privately with a temp URL or the hosts file, then update DNS and expect up to 48 hours for propagation. Some providers offer free migration and zero-downtime moves; check HostPapa, Bluehost, and A2 Hosting for assisted options. Key Takeaways Follow a step-by-step checklist to avoid surprises during the move. Gather files, FTP users, and a clean database export before starting. Use temp URLs or hosts file previews to test privately. Allow up to 48 hours for DNS propagation after switching domains. Check if your new provider offers free migration or assisted moves. Why move now: speed, security, and a safer 2025 migration plan If speed, uptime, and security matter, now is the time to plan a safe site move with clear steps. Speed and security are immediate wins when you choose a modern hosting plan. A faster page load boosts conversions and reduces bounce rates. Better infrastructure also cuts exposure to attacks and gives you stronger support channels. Before you start, make sure you can access both control panels and the relevant accounts. Back up your files and database to a local drive\u2014this is your rollback plan if anything goes wrong. &#8220;Block out a maintenance window during low-traffic time to reduce risk and keep customer impact small.&#8221; Collect panel, FTP\/SFTP, phpMyAdmin, and domain name registrar details now. Decide if you\u2019ll do it yourself or use a hosting provider that offers free assistance. Confirm PHP and WordPress website compatibility in settings before the big step. How to migrate from DreamHost to WordPress hosting: step\u2011by\u2011step checklist Follow this checklist in order so you keep control and avoid downtime. Confirm site and FTP user: open Domains \u2192 Manage Domains in your control panel and note which user owns the website files. Then go to Users \u2192 Manage Users and reset the FTP\/SFTP password if needed. Download files and export the database Connect with an FTP client (example: FileZilla) to ftp.yourdomain.com and download all website files to a safe folder on your computer. In Advanced \u2192 MySQL Databases open phpMyAdmin, select your database, and Export using Quick or Custom to save an .sql backup. Prepare the destination account In cPanel \u2192 MySQL Databases create a new database, create a user, and Add User to Database with All Privileges. Then open cPanel phpMyAdmin, select the new database, and Import your .sql file. Final file edits, upload, and test Edit wp-config.php to set DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD, and DB_HOST (usually localhost). Keep the $table_prefix unchanged. Upload files to the document root (example: public_html) or use File Manager. Test the site using a temporary URL or a hosts file override before you update DNS. Tip: Keep your original files and database backups until the site runs smoothly on the new account. Pick your method: manual FTP, plugin assists, or free migration services Decide how hands-on you want to be: full manual control, a plugin assistant, or a provider team that handles the move for you. Manual method: full control with FTP, databases, and file edits What you get: total control over files and the database. Use FTP\/SFTP to copy files and phpMyAdmin to export\/import the database. Checklist: an FTP client, phpMyAdmin access on both accounts, a new database on the destination, and wp-config.php edits. Plugin route: backups and restores with trusted tools When cPanel isn\u2019t available, a backup\/restore tool can speed the process. Verify plugin compatibility on your wordpress website first. Make a full backup, restore on the destination, and test on a staging URL before you switch the domain name. Assisted moves: providers and dedicated teams If you want speed and safety, pick a hosting provider that offers free migration and a migration team. Ask what logins they need and the timeline. WordPress.com option Use the Move to WordPress.com plugin for a private staging subdomain. Managed plans include backups, SSL, and priority support before you map your domain. Method Best for Main benefit Manual (FTP + phpMyAdmin) Advanced users Complete control and tuning Plugin (backup\/restore) No cPanel access Faster, fewer manual steps Assisted (provider team) Little time or risk tolerance Fast, supported free migration WordPress.com Managed site owners Staging subdomain and managed services Tip: Compare hosting plan features\u2014performance, SSL, backups, and support\u2014so your move upgrades your site, not just the account. Pre\u2011launch checks and performance boosts on your new host Previewing before you switch DNS saves time and stress. Use a temp URL, a hosts file override, or services like hosts.cx to view your website privately on the new server. This keeps your live domain unchanged while you test. Click through every page type \u2014 home, product, blog, and account pages \u2014 to confirm database-driven content renders correctly. Validate forms, search, checkout, logins, and media playback so real user flows work without surprises. If links or media point to the old domain name or wrong address, update General settings or run a safe search\u2011replace. Re-save permalinks to refresh rewrite rules if you hit 404s. Try an upload files test in the dashboard to confirm permissions and media paths. Run PageSpeed Insights on mobile and desktop. Note scores, then apply quick wins: enable caching, compress images, and raise PHP memory or enable OPcache in settings. Compare before\/after example results to confirm the new hosting plan actually improves load time. Tip: Temporary WP_HOME and WP_SITEURL constants in wp-config.php let you preview a wordpress website at a temp address. Remove them after DNS switch. Preview privately with temp URL, hosts.cx, or hosts file. Test pages, forms,<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10862,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,16,1],"tags":[293,297,295,298,296,294],"class_list":["post-10860","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hosting","category-web-hosting","category-wordpress","tag-dreamhost-migration-checklist","tag-dreamhost-to-wordpress-step-by-step","tag-high-performance-wordpress-tips","tag-performance-optimization-for-wordpress","tag-safe-website-migration-strategies","tag-wordpress-hosting-migration-guide"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10860","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10860"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10860\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10898,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10860\/revisions\/10898"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10862"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10860"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10860"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/boostedhost.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10860"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}