What Does a Staged Migration Look Like?
A staged migration sets up the new VPS completely and tests it before any DNS change that would affect visitors. The process: provision the new VPS and configure it (1–2 hours), copy all website files and database from shared hosting to VPS (30–60 minutes), update the hosts file on a test device to preview the site on the new server without affecting DNS (immediate), test everything works correctly on the new server, then change DNS to point to the new server IP (takes effect in 1–4 hours for most domain registrars). During the DNS propagation period, some visitors see the old server and some see the new one — both are working, so there is no downtime.
What Should Be Tested Before Switching DNS?
Every page of the website loads correctly from the new server. Contact forms and any interactive elements work. Email (if hosted separately) is not affected. SSL certificate is installed and functioning. Database-driven content (WordPress posts, product pages, user accounts) is current and complete. Speed test from a local device shows the performance improvement expected.
M A Global Network handles website migrations as part of VPS onboarding. Talk to our team about migrating your website or view plans.
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