It may be surprising to some to learn that more often than not people will continue to do business with a web hosting company that provides excessively horrible service. Simply because they do not fully understand how to mitigate risks and efficiently transition from one hosted provider to another. There are several unattractive hazards associated with web site relocation, such as: Loss of consumer base due to lengthy downtime; Loss of improperly backed up content, and; A decreased professional image.

All of these pitfalls can easily be avoided by taking the time to research the availability of reputable web hosting companies and carefully implementing a strategic migration plan.

Before selecting an alternative hosting provider, it is important to make note of all of the features that are essential to the web sites operation. Cross reference the necessary features with the web hosts that are capable (and well known) for providing those features. Carefully research reviews about the providers that make your short list, and ask questions about each provider on web hosting forums. Once you are satisfied, and have narrowed your selection down to one or two web hosting companies, send each provider two emails; one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. Note the response time of each provider, as this will provide a good insight in to their customer service abilities.

After you have determined which host is the least likely to cause you any problems, initiate a service agreement. Upload your files and then test the site. Once all of the necessary coding has been adjusted you can then test each link, page and image file and begin to create your email accounts.

Once the above steps have been completed, you must next transfer the domain. Altering DNS server details is far less complicated than it sounds. After receiving both the Primary and Secondary name server details from the new web hosting company, simply go to the domain registrar’s web site and access your personal control panel. Once logged in, locate the DNS option and alter the name server details to match the new information. Domain transfer can take up to 24 hours, during this time leave access to your old site open to ensure that there is no loss of emails or other pertinent information.