Navigating Domain Hosting Changes Without the Pain
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Risks of Changing Hosts
Switching domain hosts often comes with enticing low introductory prices that appear far better than the $300 you spent last year. However, the real question remains: Is it truly a better deal? More importantly, how will it perform upon renewal?
Since your new provider took over, you may have noticed your website loading slowly, prolonged transitions between pages, and an alarming increase in bounce rates. Service requests might go unanswered, leading to lost sales and sign-ups. Your reputation and sales are at stake, leaving you feeling frustrated and trapped. However, what options do you have? Limited ones, unfortunately.
While you could select a new host, create a similar domain, and migrate your data, this would result in losing your domain authority (DA) and starting from scratch. A crucial component of DA is the age of your website; the longer it's been active, the better.
Additionally, consider the backlinks to and from your site. These links contribute to your site's "authority reputation." The more authoritative backlinks you possess, the higher your DA and Page Rank will be. This is how many hosting providers evaluate the profitability of their low introductory offers. Once they have you as a customer, they recognize that it will be challenging to persuade you to switch again, given what you stand to lose.
Much like preparing for a colonoscopy, switching your domain host is not usually an enjoyable task. Yet, both experiences can be beneficial in the long run, particularly in improving your website's performance. If you're considering a switch, follow these steps to make the experience less daunting. Preparation is key, whether for a medical procedure or a hosting change!
Chapter 2: Choosing a New Host - Looking Beyond the Price
While cost is an important aspect when selecting a hosting service, it should never be the sole factor. Other vital considerations include service reliability, server speed, customer support availability, and scalability options.
Make sure to read reviews, comprehend the terms of service, and verify if the hosting company's values resonate with yours. For example, while some may consider InMotion Hosting a great choice, others prefer BlueHost. Although some claim BlueHost is pricier, I successfully negotiated a lower renewal rate by reaching out to customer service.
Most hosting companies are willing to work with you since it’s cheaper for them to retain existing customers than to attract new ones with introductory offers.
Section 2.1: Preparing for the Transition
The first step in transitioning is to log into your current domain host and verify your administrative contact information. Ensure that the email associated with your account is accurate and regularly checked, as it will receive important updates regarding the transfer.
Subsection 2.1.1: Unlocking Your Domain
Next, you will need to unlock your domain. Navigate to your domain settings and locate the "Domain Lock" option. This step is crucial, as it allows the transfer to proceed. Be cautious, though; only unlock your domain if you're ready to transfer, as hackers could exploit an unlocked domain.
Section 2.2: Initiating the Domain Transfer
Log into your new host's account and look for the option to start a domain transfer. Each hosting company may have a slightly different process, but most provide clear instructions or dedicated support teams to assist you.
Subsection 2.2.1: Obtaining an Authorization Code
After unlocking your domain, request an authorization code (often referred to as an EPP code) from your old host. This unique identifier, typically sent via email, verifies your authority to transfer the domain.
To ensure a smooth transition, check the following:
- Is your domain unlocked?
- Is your domain older than 60 days?
- Will your new host support your domain type? Verify this with their customer service before finalizing your decision.
- Have you received authorization from your current host? Keep in mind that it may take a week or longer to obtain this.
Section 2.3: Authorizing and Finalizing the Transfer
Once you have your authorization code, enter it into the transfer domain section of your new host's platform. An email will be sent to your administrative contact email with a confirmation link. Click this link to authorize the transfer.
Finally, after authorizing, you’ll need to be patient. Domain transfers can take from a few days to a week. Your new host will inform you once the transfer is complete. Be sure to double-check all settings, particularly those related to DNS and email, to ensure everything works as expected.
Switching your domain host doesn’t have to feel like an unpleasant medical procedure. By adhering to these steps, you can navigate the transition with minimal discomfort, ultimately finding a host that better meets your website's needs.
About the Author
Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a journalism degree from the University of Maryland. He is a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor and a Top Writer in various fields such as Nutrition, Investing, and Travel.
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