Migrating from shared web hosting to a VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting plan can be a wise decision. It helps you accommodate the needs of a website that is growing in traffic and complexity.
Shared website hosting is generally good for beginners. It is affordable, easy to set up, and requires minimal technical knowledge. But as your website grows, shared hosting might not be enough to provide optimal performance and security. This is why you need to switch to VPS hosting.
Benefits of VPS Hosting
- Improved Performance: VPS hosting offers dedicated resources like CPU, RAM, and storage. It ensures faster loading times and smoother website operation.
- Enhanced Security: VPS hosting allows you to easily scale your resources based on the increased traffic on your website.
- Increased Security: With VPS hosting, you have more control over your security settings. It reduces the risk of security breaches compared to shared hosting.
Steps to Migrate from Shared Hosting to VPS
Let us walk you through the process of migrating your website from shared hosting to VPS.
- Choose a VPS Hosting Provider
The first step to moving from cheap shared hosting is to choose a VPS hosting provider. Select a reliable provider with a good reputation. Check if they meet your performance, security, and budget requirements.
- Create A Backup of Your Website
Before migrating, you need to back up your website files, databases, and any other important data. This will help you ensure that no data is lost during the migration process and will allow you to restore your website if anything goes wrong.
- Configure VPS (Virtual Private Server)
Once you have chosen a VPS hosting provider and activated your plan, set up your VPS account. Log in to your VPS control panel and configure the server settings according to your requirements. Follow the provider’s instructions to set up your operating system, security settings, and basic configurations.
- Upload Website Data to the New VPS
Use FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or a file manager provided by your hosting provider to transfer your website files from the shared hosting server to your VPS. Import your website’s database into the database server on your VPS. Update your domain’s DNS (Domain Name System) settings to your new VPS hosting server. If needed, get help from your domain registrar.
- Check Everything for Some Final Changes
After you upload all the data and files to the new VPS, it is time to test your website before making the final switch from the secure shared hosting. Make sure all the pages load correctly, links function properly, and forms work as expected.
- Enter Your Domain DNS
Finally, it is time to switch your domain name to point to your new VPS server. Log in to your domain registrar’s control panel and update the nameserver records for your domain name with the nameservers provided by your VPS provider. This process might take 24-48 hours for the changes to propagate globally.
Conclusion
Migrating from shared hosting in India to VPS hosting may feel like a task. However, with careful planning and following these simple steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition. VPS hosting can improve the performance, security, and scalability of your website, providing you with more control of your website.