Switching hosting services and the messy webs we weave
"Just put my files on your server."
We get this request fairly often. Many times this is true, we can just copy your files over to our server and call it a day. However, this isn't always the case. Especially in this new era of FUNCTIONAL websites that usually encompass some sort of database functionality on the back end. If you don't know what to look for when switching hosts, you can literally have a couple sleepless nights just dealing with the aftermath. Without the proper planning you could potentially make things so hairy you end up having to start from scratch and possibly destroying your current SEO rank and internet traffic.
Here are some factors you should keep in mind when choosing a host:
What OS platform was your site developed on, Windows or Linux? These are as different as you think they are. Both have different functions. Neither is good or bad, just different strokes for different folks. But, there is a very good chance your site will not function properly if you make the wrong choice and place your files on a hosting platform that your site was not developed for.
Is there a CMS, CRM, and/or E-Commerce? Any type of backend that you log into will typically have a database attached to it. That database will need to be moved to the new host and also be compatible with the new server. Most websites databases are in MySQL, however, you can also run into the occasional MSSQL or Access database.
Who is your registrar and what do they do? This is the most common misconception among clients, that their host provider and registrar are the same. Sometimes this can be the case, but oftentimes is not; your registrar controls your domain name, and is typically where you purchased it from. The registrar also gives you access to the DNS Zone File and NAMESERVERS for your domain name. These name servers will point your domain to the actual server or host provider, which can be a completely different company. Without configuring this properly your site isn't going to move much closer to your new hosting provider any time soon.
PHP vs ASP? This is the scripting language of your site. It is important to know what scripting language, if any, your site is using. Also important is to know what version of PHP or ASP your website utilizes. There are still some older sites out there using scripting that only works on older versions of these languages. This means the moment you move the site over to the new host, all of your database functionality will be broken.
Do you have E-mail addresses using your domain name? Mail is managed with MX records and without the proper planning you can kill the connection to all your devices and people that are receiving E-mails with your custom created E-mail addresses.
We could go on and on with more things to look for. This is not even close to a complete list. However, you get the idea. Ask questions and do not be afraid to tell your current host that you are looking to change providers and need to know what kind of server to look for. Who knows, they may even give you a good reason NOT to switch servers. Most companies will be forthcoming with this information.
It's good to know the answers to these questions. But, if you don't know them then that's part of the discovery process when we switch your site over to another hosting provider. Having dealt with this scenario for many years, we know what questions to ask, how to avoid launching your site with errors, and when the exact right moment is to switch your hosting to ensure you have as little downtime as possible.
~ Article written by Nick Bagnoli and Scott Espenschied
