Website migration: validate before switching
Inventory domains, databases, files, mail, scheduled jobs and external callbacks. During the final sync, pause writes when your workflow requires it to avoid lost orders or comments. Check links and logs on the new host. Keep the old environment available for rollback; completion is not a reason to delete backups.
What to check before choosing
Build a small test with the same pages, data and visitor scenarios. Change one condition at a time; save results, dates and unresolved issues. Fix launch blockers before paying for extras.
- Compatibility with your project
- Introductory, renewal and usage costs
- Data export, restoration and migration
- Permissions, updates and support scope
Costs & renewals
Use the official checkout to record introductory and renewal charges, taxes, add-ons and overages separately. Free software does not mean free hosting or maintenance. An advertised monthly equivalent may require prepayment.
A practical next step
Validate your requirements with a non-critical project and record limits and support responses. Verify restoration and export before migrating production; avoid committing your full budget for a long-term discount alone.