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How To Migrate Your Website To WebHostMost Without Downtime

Quick Intro​

Migrating your website to WebHostMost doesn't have to be complicated or scary. This guide will walk you through every step of the migration process, ensuring zero downtime for your website and email services. Whether you're moving a simple HTML site, a WordPress blog, or a complex web application, we've got you covered.

Professional Migration Service Available

If you've purchased a Micro, Pro, or Ultra plan for 1 year or 3 years, we offer FREE professional migration service! Our technical team will handle the entire migration for you. Simply open a support ticket and request migration assistance.

Migrating WordPress? Jump directly to the WordPress-Specific Migration section for detailed WordPress instructions using staging, cloning, and our Advanced Installer Hub.

What you'll learn in this guide:

  • How to backup your current website safely
  • Transferring files and databases to WebHostMost
  • Testing your site before switching DNS
  • Migrating emails without losing messages
  • Switching your domain with zero downtime
  • WordPress-specific migration tips with staging

Estimated time: 1-3 hours (depending on site size)

Pre-Migration Checklist ✅​

Before starting, make sure you have:

  • Current hosting account access (SFTP, cPanel, Plesk, or control panel)
  • Domain registrar access (to change nameservers or A records)
  • Email account credentials (if migrating email)
  • Database access (phpMyAdmin or similar)
  • Website backup (files + database)
  • WebHostMost account ready (you need an active hosting order - purchase hosting plan here)

How to Access Your WebHostMost Account​

Once you've purchased a hosting plan, you'll receive Web Control Panel login credentials via email:

Web Control Panel Access (where you manage hosting):

  • Option 1: Visit https://serverX.webhostmost.com:2222/evo/login (replace X with your server number from email)
  • Option 2: Login to Client Area → Click Login to Control Panel button next to your service
  • Manage website files, databases, email accounts, and technical settings

Client Area Access (for billing and support):

Don't Cancel Your Old Hosting!

Keep your old hosting active for at least 2 weeks after migration. This gives you enough time to:

  • Complete the migration without rushing
  • Thoroughly test everything on WebHostMost
  • Ensure DNS has fully propagated worldwide
  • Migrate all emails safely without data loss
  • Fix any issues that may arise
  • Verify backups are working correctly

Pro tip: If your current hosting is expiring soon, purchase your WebHostMost plan early - ideally 2-3 weeks before your old hosting expires. This gives you a comfortable overlap period to migrate safely without rushing or risking data loss. It's much better to have a few weeks of overlap (paying for both) than to scramble at the last minute and potentially lose access to your website, emails, or backup files!

Migration Path Overview​

Here's the complete migration process at a glance:

1. Backup old site → 2. Upload to WHM → 3. Import database → 
4. Disable DNSSEC → 5. Change NS to WHM → 6. Set A record to old IP →
7. Create staging subdomain → 8. Test on staging → 9. Migrate emails → 
10. Switch A record to WHM → 11. Verify everything → 12. Monitor & cleanup

Key insight: Change nameservers FIRST (step 5), immediately set A record to old hosting IP (step 6) to keep old site live, then create staging subdomain (step 7 - requires NS already on WHM). Test everything on staging, migrate emails, then switch A record when ready!

Let's dive into each step!

Step 1: Create Backup on Your Old Hosting 📦​

What to Backup​

You need to backup two things:

  1. Website files (all files in public_html/ or www/ or httpdocs/)
  2. Database(s) (usually MySQL/MariaDB)

How to Backup Files​

Option A: Through File Manager (if available)

  1. Log into your old hosting control panel
  2. Go to File Manager
  3. Select your website folder (usually public_html/)
  4. Right-click → Compress → Choose format: .zip, .tar.gz, or .rar
  5. Download the compressed archive to your computer

Option B: Via SFTP

  1. Connect using FileZilla or similar SFTP client
  2. Download entire website folder to your local computer
  3. Compress it locally into .zip or .tar.gz

How to Backup Database​

  1. Log into phpMyAdmin on your old hosting
  2. Select your database from the left sidebar
  3. Click Export tab at the top
  4. Choose Quick export method
  5. Format: SQL
  6. Click Go to download the .sql file
Quick Tip

If your database is very large, choose Custom export and enable gzip compression to reduce file size.

Keep these files safe! You'll need them in the next steps.

Step 2: Upload Files to WebHostMost 📁​

Once you have your backup files, you need to upload them to WebHostMost. There are three methods to choose from:

  1. Log into your Web Control Panel:
    • Via Client Area → Click Login to Control Panel button next to your service
    • Or directly at https://serverX.webhostmost.com:2222/evo/login (replace X with your server number)
  2. Go to File Management → File Manager
  3. Navigate to your domain's folder:
    • Path: domains/yourdomain.com/public_html/
    • (Replace yourdomain.com with your actual domain name)
  4. Click Upload button (top toolbar)
  5. Select your backup archive (.zip, .tar.gz, or .rar)
  6. Wait for upload to complete
  7. Right-click the uploaded archive → Extract
  8. Verify files are in the correct location
File Structure

Make sure your index.html or index.php is directly in public_html/, not in a subfolder! Incorrect structure:

public_html/
  └── mysite/  ❌ Wrong!
      └── index.html

Correct structure:
public_html/
  └── index.html  ✅ Correct!

Learn more: File Manager Complete Guide

SFTP is faster and more reliable for large websites (500MB+).

  1. Download an SFTP client like FileZilla
  2. Connect using your SFTP credentials:
    • Host: serverX.webhostmost.com (replace X with your server number)
    • Port: 2323
    • Username: Your Web Control Panel username
    • Auth method: SSH key (.ppk file sent to your email)
  3. Navigate to public_html/ on the remote side
  4. Drag and drop your website files from local to remote
  5. Extract archives using File Manager (see Method 1)

Learn more: How to Connect via SFTP

💬 Never used SFTP before? Ask Webbee! Say "How do I connect via SFTP?" and she'll explain the connection process step-by-step. Start with Webbee →

Step 3: Import Your Database 🗄️​

Now that your files are uploaded, let's import your database.

Create Database and User​

  1. Log into your Web Control Panel
  2. Go to Databases → SQL Database Manager
  3. Click Create Database
  4. Enter database name:
    • Type your desired name (e.g., mysite)
    • System automatically adds prefix: ijodghbk_mysite
    • Your final database name will look like: ijodghbk_mysite
  5. Click Create

Understanding the prefix: Your database will have your username as a prefix (e.g., ijodghbk_). This is normal and ensures database names are unique on the server. Your full database name might be ijodghbk_mysite, your database user ijodghbk_dbuser, etc.

Manage Database Users​

  1. In the database list, click Manage button next to your database
  2. In the User Access section, you can:
    • Grant access to existing database user
    • Create new user by clicking Manage Users button (opens user management)
  3. To create new user:
    • Click Manage Users in top right
    • Click Create User
    • Enter username and strong password
    • Save credentials (you'll need them!)
    • Go back to database and grant this user Full access

Learn more: Complete SQL Database Manager Guide - Detailed instructions with screenshots for creating databases, managing users, setting privileges, and importing data.

Import SQL File via Control Panel​

  1. In the database list, find your database
  2. Click Manage button next to it
  3. In the Database Operations section, click Import button
  4. Click Choose File and select your .sql backup file
  5. Click Import button
  6. Wait for import to complete (may take several minutes for large databases)
  7. You'll see success message when done
Large Database Import

The Control Panel import tool handles large databases efficiently. If your .sql file is compressed (.sql.gz or .sql.zip), the system will automatically decompress and import it. For very large databases (500MB+), contact support for assistance.

Update Database Configuration​

After importing, you must update your website's database connection settings with your new WebHostMost credentials:

For WordPress: Edit wp-config.php

define('DB_NAME', 'ijodghbk_mysite');        // Your new database name WITH prefix
define('DB_USER', 'ijodghbk_dbuser');        // Your new database user WITH prefix
define('DB_PASSWORD', 'your_new_password');  // Password you set
define('DB_HOST', 'localhost');              // Always localhost

For Joomla: Edit configuration.php

public $db = 'ijodghbk_mysite';           // Database name
public $user = 'ijodghbk_dbuser';         // Database user
public $password = 'your_new_password';   // Database password
public $host = 'localhost';               // Database host

For Drupal: Edit settings.php or settings.local.php

$databases['default']['default'] = [
  'database' => 'ijodghbk_mysite',
  'username' => 'ijodghbk_dbuser',
  'password' => 'your_new_password',
  'host' => 'localhost',
  'driver' => 'mysql',
];

For Laravel: Edit .env file

DB_CONNECTION=mysql
DB_HOST=localhost
DB_DATABASE=ijodghbk_mysite
DB_USERNAME=ijodghbk_dbuser
DB_PASSWORD=your_new_password

For other CMS/frameworks: Look for config.php, configuration.php, settings.php, database.php, or .env file and update database credentials there.

💬 Database troubles? Ask Webbee! Say "Create a database for my site" or "How do I import my SQL file?" and she can handle it or guide you through. Start with Webbee →

Step 4: Setup DNS & Change Nameservers 🌌​

Critical step! Configure your DNS zone FIRST (before changing nameservers), then switch nameservers. This ensures zero downtime!

CRITICAL: Remove DNSSEC Before Changing Nameservers!

BEFORE changing nameservers, you MUST disable/remove DNSSEC at your domain registrar or old hosting!

DNSSEC will completely break your site if not removed before switching to WebHostMost. Check your domain registrar's control panel for DNSSEC settings and disable it first.

⚠️ Failure to remove DNSSEC will cause DNS resolution failures and your site will be unreachable!

Step 4.1: Setup DNS Zone FIRST (Before Changing Nameservers)​

IMPORTANT: Set up your DNS zone on WebHostMost BEFORE changing nameservers! The DNS editor in Control Panel works even when your domain still points elsewhere, so configure everything in advance.

  1. Log into your WebHostMost Web Control Panel:
    • Via Client Area → Click Login to Control Panel next to your service
    • Or directly at https://serverX.webhostmost.com:2222/evo/login
  2. Go to Domain Management → DNS Management
  3. Set A record to OLD hosting IP:
    • Find the A record for your main domain (@ or yourdomain.com)
    • Change IP address to your old hosting IP address
    • Contact old hosting support: "What is my server IP address?"
    • Save changes
  4. Set MX records for email (if you want email working immediately):
    • Add MX records pointing to your old mail server OR
    • Add MX records for WebHostMost email servers (if migrating email now)
    • This ensures email keeps working during migration
  5. Add any other DNS records you need:
    • TXT records (SPF, DKIM, domain verification)
    • CNAME records (subdomains, CDN, external services)
    • Any custom DNS records from your old hosting

Why do this BEFORE changing nameservers?

  • DNS zone is ready and waiting
  • After NS propagation, everything works automatically
  • Zero downtime - old site stays live, email keeps working
  • You control all DNS from WebHostMost panel

Step 4.2: Now Change Nameservers​

Now that DNS zone is configured, change your nameservers at your domain registrar:

  1. Log into your domain registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, etc.)
  2. Find DNS Settings or Nameservers section
  3. Change nameservers to WebHostMost:
    • ns1.server1.webhostmost.com
    • ns2.server2.webhostmost.com
    • ns3.server3.webhostmost.com
    • ns4.server4.webhostmost.com
  4. Save changes
All 4 Nameservers Are Required!

You MUST add all 4 nameservers for proper functionality. Using only 2 nameservers will cause DNS issues and potential downtime.

If your domain registrar only allows 2 nameservers: Contact your registrar's support and request they enable all 4 nameservers. Most modern registrars support this, but some old systems may need manual configuration by their technical team.

Learn more: WebHostMost Nameservers Guide

Result: Nameservers point to WebHostMost (you control DNS), A record points to old hosting IP (old site stays LIVE), MX records keep email working!

Step 4.3: Wait for Nameserver Propagation (30 mins - 4 hours)​

Before you can create staging subdomain, nameserver changes need time to propagate:

  • Minimum wait: 30 minutes
  • Typical: 1-4 hours
  • Maximum: 24-48 hours

Check propagation:

  • Ask Webbee: "Check DNS propagation for mydomain.com" - she'll verify nameservers are pointing to WebHostMost
  • Online tool: dnschecker.org - Check from multiple global locations
  • Enter your domain, select "NS" record type, verify it shows WebHostMost nameservers

Step 5: Create Staging Subdomain & Test 🧪​

Now that nameservers point to WebHostMost, you can create staging subdomain to test your migrated site safely.

Why Use Staging?​

  • Zero downtime: Your live site stays online while you test
  • Safe testing: Fix issues before going live
  • Preview URL: Show clients/team the new site before launch

Create Staging Subdomain​

  1. Log into Web Control Panel → Domain Management → Subdomain Setup
  2. Click Add Subdomain
  3. Enter subdomain name: staging (creates staging.yourdomain.com)
  4. Point to: public_html/ (or wherever your files are)
  5. Click Create
  6. Wait 5-10 minutes for subdomain DNS to propagate

Learn more: Complete Subdomain Setup Guide

Test Everything on Staging​

Visit staging.yourdomain.com and test:

  • Homepage loads correctly
  • All pages and navigation work
  • Forms submit properly (contact forms, search, etc.)
  • Images and media display
  • Login functionality (if applicable)
  • Database connections work (dynamic content)
  • SSL certificate (should auto-install, wait 5-10 minutes)
  • Email sending (contact forms, notifications)
WordPress on Staging

If you're testing WordPress on staging, the site URLs may need adjustment. Use Softaculous/Advanced Installer Hub to handle this automatically:

  1. Go to Website Management → Advanced Installer Hub
  2. Find your WordPress installation
  3. Click the WP icon (WordPress Manager)
  4. Use Clone feature to create staging version - it handles all URL changes automatically
  5. Test thoroughly on staging.yourdomain.com

Learn more: See WordPress-Specific Migration section below for detailed WordPress staging and cloning instructions.

When Staging Tests Pass​

Once you've verified everything works perfectly on staging.yourdomain.com, proceed to Step 6 (migrate emails) and then Step 7 (switch A record to go live).

💬 Need help understanding staging setup? Ask Webbee! Say "How does staging subdomain work?" or "Explain DNS propagation" and she'll explain the concepts. Start with Webbee →

Step 6: Migrate Email Accounts 📧​

If you use email with your domain (e.g., [email protected]), you need to migrate those too.

Create Email Accounts on WebHostMost​

First, recreate all your email accounts:

  1. Go to Email Manager → Email Accounts
  2. Click Create Email Account
  3. Enter:
    • Email address: [email protected]
    • Password: Use same or new password
    • Quota: Set mailbox size limit
  4. Repeat for all email accounts you have

Migrate Email Messages (IMAPSync)​

To copy existing emails from old hosting to WebHostMost:

  1. Go to Email Manager → IMAPSync Migrations
  2. Click Import Emails (importing TO WebHostMost)
  3. Fill in the form:
    • Source IMAP Server (Host): Your old hosting's IMAP server
      • Ask your old hosting support: "What is my IMAP hostname?"
      • Common formats: mail.yourdomain.com, imap.oldhost.com, mail.oldhost.com
    • Source Email (User): Your old email address
    • Source Password: Password on old hosting
    • Destination Email (User): Select your WebHostMost email from dropdown
    • Authentication: Internal sign-in (pre-selected)
  4. Click Start Migration
  5. Wait for completion (may take hours for large mailboxes)
Email Migration Timeline
  • Small mailbox (< 1GB): 10-30 minutes
  • Medium mailbox (1-5GB): 1-3 hours
  • Large mailbox (10GB+): Several hours or overnight

Migration runs in the background, so you can close the browser and check back later.

Learn more: Complete Email Migration Guide

Step 7: Switch A Record to Go Live 🚀​

Once everything works perfectly on staging and emails are migrated, it's time to switch your main domain to WebHostMost!

Switch A Record to WebHostMost IP​

  1. Log into Web Control Panel → Domain Management → DNS Management
  2. Find the A record for your main domain (@ or yourdomain.com)
  3. Change the IP address from old hosting IP to your WebHostMost server IP
  4. Save changes
  5. Wait 1-4 hours for DNS propagation
Finding Your WebHostMost Server IP

Need your WebHostMost server IP address? Find it here:

  • Option 1: Check https://www.webhostmost.com/server-info
  • Option 2: Look in your WebHostMost welcome email
  • Option 3: Web Control Panel → Domain Management → Domain Setup (shows your server IP)
  • Option 4: Ask Webbee: "What is my server IP address?"

Result: Your main domain now points to WebHostMost! Your migrated site is LIVE! 🎉

Alternative: Transfer Domain to WebHostMost​

Best for: Complete management in one place

If you want to manage your domain directly with us:

  1. At current registrar:

    • Unlock domain (disable "domain lock" or "transfer lock")
    • Get EPP/authorization code (also called "auth code" or "transfer code")
    • Some registrars require contacting support to get this code

  2. At WebHostMost:

    • Go to WebHostMost Client Area → Domains → Transfer Domain to Us
    • Enter domain name and authorization code
    • Complete payment for transfer fee

  3. Approve transfer:

    • Check your domain registrant email for transfer confirmation
    • Click approval link in email (required for most TLDs)
    • Alternative: Some registrars allow approval in their control panel - check your current registrar's dashboard

  4. Wait 5-7 days for transfer to complete

    • Domain will remain functional during transfer
    • No downtime during the process

Learn more: Domain Transfer Guide

Step 8: Verify DNS Propagation​

DNS changes take time to spread worldwide. Here's how to check:

Check DNS Propagation​

Online tools:

  • dnschecker.org - Real-time DNS propagation from multiple locations worldwide
  • Ask Webbee: "Check DNS for mydomain.com" - Quick verification

Command line (checks real internet DNS, not cached):

# Check nameservers (using Google DNS - sees real internet state)
dig NS yourdomain.com @8.8.8.8

# Check A record (using Google DNS)
dig A yourdomain.com @8.8.8.8

# Check from Cloudflare DNS (another public DNS server)
dig A yourdomain.com @1.1.1.1
Why Use @8.8.8.8 or @1.1.1.1?

These commands query public DNS servers (Google and Cloudflare), which show the real internet state of your DNS records. Without @8.8.8.8, the dig command uses your local DNS cache, which may show old/cached data.

Also helpful: If your site loads old content after DNS change, clear your browser cache and WordPress cache plugins (if using WordPress). Cache can make it seem like DNS hasn't updated when it actually has!

What to Look For​

✅ Nameservers should show:

ns1.server1.webhostmost.com
ns2.server2.webhostmost.com
ns3.server3.webhostmost.com
ns4.server4.webhostmost.com

✅ A record should show your WebHostMost server IP

During Propagation​

Some visitors see your old site, some see new site. This is normal and temporary. Why this is okay:

  • Your old site is still working (no errors for users)
  • No data is being lost
  • Within 48 hours, everyone sees the new site

💬 DNS confusion? Ask Webbee to explain: "How does DNS propagation work?" or "What are nameservers?" and she'll clarify the concepts. For actual DNS issues, contact support. Start with Webbee →

Step 9: Post-Migration Checklist ✅​

After DNS has propagated and your site is live on WebHostMost:

Verify Website​

  • Homepage loads without errors
  • All pages work (test navigation, links)
  • Forms submit correctly (contact forms, search)
  • Images display properly
  • SSL certificate is active (🔒 padlock in browser)
  • Mobile version works (test on phone)
  • Speed test (site should be fast!)

Verify Email​

  • Send test email from your domain email
  • Receive test email to your domain email
  • Email client works (Outlook, Thunderbird, phone)
  • Webmail works (login at https://yourdomain.com/webmail)

Backups​

WebHostMost provides automatic backup solutions:

Automated Backups (JetBackup):

  • Available on Micro, Pro, and Ultra plans
  • Automatic backups of your files and databases
  • Easy one-click restore from backup snapshots
  • Stored on separate backup servers for safety
  • No setup required - runs automatically!

Manual Backups:

  1. Go to File Management → Create/Restore Backups
  2. Create full backup anytime (files + databases)
  3. Download backup to your local computer for extra safety
JetBackup - Your Safety Net

JetBackup runs automatically on eligible plans with no configuration needed. If something goes wrong, you can restore your entire site to any previous backup point in seconds. No manual intervention needed!

Enable SSL (if not auto-installed)​

SSL certificates are usually installed automatically within 10 minutes after adding a domain. If your site doesn't have SSL:

  1. Go to Security Management → SSL Certificates
  2. Select the Get automatic certificate from ACME Provider tab
  3. Choose your desired Certificate Entries (select your domain)
  4. Click Save and wait for the process to complete (5-10 minutes)
  5. Enable Force HTTPS to redirect all traffic to secure version

Learn more: Complete SSL Certificates Guide - Detailed instructions for installing, managing, and troubleshooting SSL certificates.

Update DNS Records (if needed)​

If you use any external services (Google Workspace, Mailchimp, marketing tools, etc.), you may need to add custom DNS records:

  1. Go to Domain Management → DNS Management
  2. Add records provided by the external service (MX, TXT, CNAME, etc.)
  3. Save changes

Using external email services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365?
👉 See complete guide: Using Custom Email Servers - Configure third-party email providers with your domain.

💬 Post-migration issues? Ask Webbee! Say "Enable SSL for my domain" or "How do I check my backups?" and she can help you. Start with Webbee →

WordPress-Specific Migration 🔷​

If you're migrating a WordPress site, there's an easier way using backup plugins and our installer. This section assumes you've already read the main migration guide above - you'll need to understand nameservers, DNS records, and staging setup before proceeding!

Prerequisites for WordPress Migration

Before following these WordPress-specific instructions, make sure you've completed:

  • Step 1-3 from main guide (backup files, upload files, create database)
  • Step 4 - Set up DNS zone and changed nameservers to WebHostMost
  • Step 5 - Created staging subdomain (staging.yourdomain.com)

This WordPress section focuses on restoring WordPress from backups and cloning between domains. All DNS, staging, and server setup are covered in the main guide!

Important: DNS & Staging for WordPress

Before starting WordPress migration:

  • Your DNS zone should be configured (Step 4.1) with A record pointing to old hosting
  • Nameservers should be changed to WebHostMost (Step 4.2)
  • Staging subdomain must be created (Step 5)
  • SSL will install automatically on both staging and main domain

Why this matters: WordPress migration uses staging subdomain for testing, which only works after nameservers point to WebHostMost. Once everything tests perfectly on staging, you'll switch the A record to go live (Step 7).

Understanding WordPress Migration Flow​

Why staging first?

  1. Install fresh WordPress on staging.yourdomain.com
  2. Restore your backup to staging
  3. Test everything thoroughly
  4. Clone staging to main domain when ready
  5. Switch A record to go live (Step 7 in main guide)

This keeps your old site live while you work!

Popular backup plugins:

Step 1: Create Backup on Old Hosting​

  1. On your old WordPress site, install backup plugin
  2. Create full backup (files + database)
  3. Download backup file (.wpress, .zip, or plugin format)
  4. Save it to your computer

Step 2: Install Fresh WordPress on Staging​

Why staging subdomain? Remember from Step 5 in main guide - staging subdomain lets you test safely while old site stays live!

  1. Log into Web Control Panel
  2. Go to Website Management → Advanced Installer Hub
  3. In left sidebar: Blogs → WordPress
  4. Click Custom Install
  5. Choose installation settings:
    • Protocol: https:// (SSL auto-installs)
    • Domain: Select staging.yourdomain.com from dropdown
    • Directory: Leave empty (installs in root of staging subdomain)
    • Admin username: Choose admin username
    • Admin password: Strong password
    • Admin email: Your email
    • Website title: Temporary (you'll restore backup anyway)
  6. Click Install
  7. Wait 1-2 minutes for installation
  8. You'll see success message with login URL

Step 3: Restore Your Backup to Staging​

  1. Visit https://staging.yourdomain.com/wp-admin
  2. Login with credentials from installation
  3. Go to Plugins → Add New
  4. Install the same backup plugin you used on old hosting
  5. Activate the plugin
  6. Go to plugin settings
  7. Choose Restore or Import option
  8. Upload your backup file
  9. Wait for restore to complete (may take 5-30 minutes)
  10. You'll be logged out - login again with your original site credentials

Important: After restore, WordPress URLs are automatically set to staging.yourdomain.com by most backup plugins. If not, the plugin will guide you through URL changes.

Step 4: Test Everything on Staging​

Visit https://staging.yourdomain.com and verify:

  • All pages load correctly
  • Images and media display
  • Plugins work
  • Theme looks correct
  • Forms submit (contact forms, etc.)
  • Admin area is accessible
  • Database content is complete

Fix any issues now before cloning to main domain!

Step 5: Clone Staging to Main Domain​

Once staging tests perfectly, clone it to your main domain:

  1. Go to Website Management → Advanced Installer Hub
  2. Find your WordPress installation (shows staging.yourdomain.com)
  3. Click the WP icon (WordPress Manager)
  4. Click Clone button
  5. Clone settings:
    • Target Protocol: https://
    • Target Domain: Select yourdomain.com from dropdown
    • Target Directory: Leave empty (installs in root)
    • Clone database: ✅ Yes (checked)
    • Clone files: ✅ Yes (checked)
  6. Click Clone Installation
  7. Wait 2-5 minutes for cloning
  8. Done! WordPress is cloned with all URLs automatically changed

What cloning does:

  • Copies all files from staging to main domain folder
  • Duplicates database
  • Automatically updates all WordPress URLs from staging.yourdomain.com to yourdomain.com
  • Updates wp-config.php with new database credentials
  • Your staging site remains untouched

Step 6: Test Main Domain Before Going Live​

Remember: Your A record still points to old hosting (from Step 4.1 in main guide), so visitors see old site!

Test your new WordPress by visiting it directly via server IP or using hosts file:

  • Ask Webbee: "Test my domain before DNS change"
  • Or go to Advanced Installer Hub → click WP icon → click Visit Site button

Once tested, proceed to Step 7 in main guide (switch A record to go live)!

Method 2: Ask Webbee to Install WordPress​

Even easier! Our AI assistant can install WordPress for you:

💬 Simply ask Webbee: "Install WordPress on staging.yourdomain.com" or "Install WordPress on my domain" and she'll handle the installation automatically! Start with Webbee →

Then follow restore steps above to import your backup!

WordPress Migration Tips​

Use staging for testing:

  • Never test directly on main domain
  • Staging lets you fix issues safely
  • Old site stays live during testing
  • Staging subdomain setup explained in Step 5

DNS Records for WordPress:

  • DNS zone configuration covered in Step 4.1
  • A record points to old hosting initially (keeps old site live)
  • Switch to WebHostMost IP when ready (Step 7)
  • SSL installs automatically on staging and main domain

Database prefix:

  • WebHostMost adds username prefix: ijodghbk_wordpress
  • Explained in Step 3 of main guide
  • Clone feature handles this automatically

Common WordPress issues:

  • Permalink issues: Go to Settings → Permalinks → Save Changes
  • Mixed content (HTTP/HTTPS): Install "Really Simple SSL" plugin
  • File permissions: Files 644, folders 755
  • Max upload size: Contact support to increase if needed

Learn more:

Troubleshooting Common Issues 🔧​

Issue 1: Site Shows "Database Connection Error"​

Cause: Wrong database credentials in config file

Fix:

  1. Open wp-config.php (WordPress) or equivalent config file
  2. Verify database name, username, password match what you created
  3. Ensure DB_HOST is set to localhost
  4. Save and refresh

Issue 2: Site Shows 404 or Blank Page​

Cause: Files in wrong directory or missing .htaccess

Fix:

  1. Check public_html/ contains index.php or index.html
  2. For WordPress: Regenerate permalinks (Settings → Permalinks → Save)
  3. Check file permissions (folders: 755, files: 644)
  4. Look for .htaccess file (may be hidden)

Issue 3: Images/CSS Not Loading​

Cause: Incorrect file paths or permissions

Fix:

  1. Check browser console for 404 errors (F12 → Console)
  2. Update hardcoded URLs in database (for WordPress: use plugin like "Better Search Replace")
  3. Check file permissions on wp-content/uploads/ (should be 755)

Issue 4: Email Not Sending​

Cause: DNS not propagated or email not configured

Fix:

  1. Wait 24-48 hours after DNS change
  2. Check MX records in DNS Management
  3. Test email via https://yourdomain.com/webmail
  4. Configure SMTP plugin for WordPress (WP Mail SMTP)

Issue 5: SSL Certificate Not Working​

Cause: Certificate not generated or forced HTTPS not enabled

Fix:

  1. Go to Security Management → SSL Certificates
  2. Click Install Free SSL (Let's Encrypt)
  3. Wait 10 minutes
  4. Enable Force HTTPS Redirect
  5. Clear browser cache and test

💬 Still stuck? Open a support ticket - our technical team will troubleshoot and fix the issue. For general questions about how things work, ask Webbee: "How do DNS records work?" or "Explain SSL certificates". Start with Webbee →

Migration Checklist Summary 📋​

Use this as your quick reference during migration:

Before Migration​

  • Create full backup (files + database)
  • Note down current PHP version and settings
  • List all email accounts
  • Document custom DNS records (if any)
  • Sign up for WebHostMost account

During Migration​

  • Upload files to WebHostMost
  • Create and import database
  • Update database config file
  • Create staging subdomain
  • Test site on staging
  • Create email accounts
  • Migrate email messages (IMAPSync)
  • Update nameservers or A record

After Migration​

  • Verify DNS propagation (24-48 hours)
  • Test website thoroughly
  • Test email send/receive
  • Install/verify SSL certificate
  • Set up automated backups
  • Monitor for 7-14 days
  • Cancel old hosting (after monitoring period)

Need Help? We're Here! 🚀​

Migration can be complex, and you're not alone. We offer multiple support options:

1. Professional Migration Service (FREE)​

If you have a Micro, Pro, or Ultra plan (1 or 3 years), we'll migrate your site for FREE:

👉 Open a support ticket and request migration assistance. Our team will handle everything!

2. Ask Webbee (AI Assistant)​

Our AI assistant Webbee can help with almost every step:

  • Installing WordPress
  • Creating databases
  • Managing DNS records
  • Troubleshooting errors
  • Setting up email
  • And much more!

💬 Start chatting with Webbee →

3. Contact Support Team​

Available 24/7 to help with any migration challenges:

Don't Be Afraid to Ask!

Seriously, ask us! Whether you're stuck on step 1 or step 100, we're here to help. Migration questions are our specialty, and we want your migration to succeed. No question is too small or too basic.

What's Next?​

After successful migration, explore these guides to get the most out of WebHostMost:

Welcome to WebHostMost! 🎉 We're excited to have you here, and we're committed to making your hosting experience exceptional.

Questions? Problems? Stuck on any step?
💬 Ask Webbee: Start chatting now →
📧 Contact Support: Open a ticket →