Thinking about switching web hosts? Whether it’s due to slow speed, poor support, or rising renewal prices — migrating your website can feel intimidating.
The good news: moving to a new hosting provider is easier than ever in 2025, and most hosts even help you migrate for free.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to safely migrate your WordPress website step-by-step without downtime.
Why You Might Need to Switch Hosts
- Your site loads too slowly.
- Frequent downtime or technical issues.
- Expensive renewal costs.
- Poor customer support.
- You’ve outgrown your shared hosting plan.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to migrate to a better host.
Option 1: Let Your New Host Handle It (Easiest Way)
Most modern hosting providers offer free or automated migration services.
| Provider | Migration Type | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hostinger | Free migration tool | ₹0 |
| MilesWeb | Manual by support | ₹0 |
| SiteGround | Automatic WP Migrator plugin | ₹0 |
| Bluehost | Manual via support | Free (first site) |
✅ Recommended: Use your host’s migration service — it’s quick, safe, and free.
Option 2: Migrate Your Website Manually (DIY Method)
If you prefer full control or want to learn the process, follow these steps 👇
Step 1: Backup Your Website Files
Use a plugin like UpdraftPlus or All-in-One WP Migration.
- Install the plugin on your old host.
- Create a full backup (files + database).
- Download it to your computer.
Step 2: Export Your Database
If you’re not using a plugin:
- Go to phpMyAdmin in your old hosting cPanel.
- Click your WordPress database → Export → “Quick” → “SQL file.”
Step 3: Set Up WordPress on Your New Host
- Install WordPress using your new host’s 1-click installer (Hostinger, MilesWeb, etc.).
- Access your new cPanel or hPanel.
Step 4: Upload Files and Import Database
- Upload your backup files to the new host (via File Manager or FTP).
- Import your database via phpMyAdmin → Import → Select file → Go.
Step 5: Update wp-config.php
- In the root folder, open wp-config.php.
- Update:
define('DB_NAME', 'newdbname'); define('DB_USER', 'newdbuser'); define('DB_PASSWORD', 'newdbpass'); define('DB_HOST', 'localhost');
Step 6: Update Domain DNS
- Go to your domain registrar (Namecheap, GoDaddy, etc.).
- Update nameservers to your new host (e.g. ns1.hostinger.in, ns2.hostinger.in).
- It takes 2–12 hours to propagate.
Step 7: Test Your Site
- Check if everything loads correctly.
- Fix broken links, images, or plugins if needed.
✅ Done — your site is now live on the new host!
Pro Tips for Smooth Migration
- Do migration during low-traffic hours.
- Don’t cancel your old hosting until the new site is confirmed working.
- Always test on staging URL if your host provides one.
Recommended Hosts with Free Migration
If your current host is slow or unreliable, these are great upgrade options:
- Hostinger – Best for beginners (free migration tool).
- MilesWeb – Best Indian-based support.
- SiteGround – Best for premium sites with managed migration.
Conclusion
Migrating your website might sound complex, but it’s actually straightforward — especially if you choose a host that handles it for you.
Whether you go the manual route or use free migration tools, moving to a better hosting provider in 2025 can dramatically improve your site’s speed, uptime, and SEO performance.
If you’re still struggling with downtime or delays, switching to Hostinger or MilesWeb could be the easiest upgrade you ever make.
