Transferring client sites to one hosting

Progress of work

The client’s problem was a classic case of fragmented infrastructure: their digital assets were scattered across different platforms. The domain was purchased from one registrar, while the four websites, representing different areas of their business, were hosted on various hosting platforms. This situation created significant difficulties in management, maintenance, and security.

Constantly switching between different control panels, having to track payment deadlines for multiple accounts, and the difficulty of responding quickly to technical issues turned simple administration into a routine, inefficient process. In addition, there were potential risks associated with different security standards and settings on each host. The client understood that for future scaling and efficient operation, they needed a single, centralized system. The main goal was clearly defined: to migrate all websites to one main account, which would save time, enhance security, and simplify all operational processes.

Action Plan

Our task wasn’t just a “mechanical” transfer of files. This was a comprehensive optimization project that included several key stages:

1. Analysis and Preparation: A thorough assessment of the current infrastructure and gaining access to all necessary accounts (domain registrar, various hosts).
2. Data Migration: Seamless transfer of all website files and their databases to a new, single hosting provider.
3. Setup and Configuration: Configuring DNS records to redirect traffic and setting up the sites to work with the new databases.
4. Security Hardening: Implementing measures to enhance security: changing passwords, usernames, and deleting old copies.
5. Testing and Monitoring: Comprehensive testing of all websites after migration and debugging.
6. Backup Creation: Ensuring system reliability by creating full backups.

Our team had to execute this project with the utmost care to avoid any website downtime and minimize any impact on visitors.

Project Execution Stages

Stage 1: Preparatory Work and Data Collection

The first step was an audit. We gained access to the client’s accounts: the domain control panel and the hosting control panels. It was crucial to accurately identify which files belonged to which website and which databases they were linked to. For each of the four websites, we performed the following actions sequentially:

• Downloading Archives: Using an FTP client or the built-in control panel tools, we downloaded full archives of all files for each site. These archives included all code, images, themes, plugins, and other important components.
• Exporting Databases: Each site had its own database where all content was stored: articles, comments, settings. We exported these databases in SQL file format. This allowed us to preserve the core content of the sites.

Stage 2: Domain Setup and DNS Transfer

This was a critical step for redirecting traffic. We logged into the domain registrar account and accessed the DNS record settings. Instead of pointing to the old hosting NS servers, we configured A-type DNS records that pointed directly to the new hosting’s IP address. This allowed us to avoid being tied to NS servers and to precisely specify where traffic should be directed after the migration. This action is key to a seamless transition, as it “tells” the internet where the sites are now located.

Stage 3: Deployment on the New Host

Once all archives and databases were successfully downloaded to our work computer, we began deploying them on the new host. Four separate directories were created in the new account, one for each website.

• Uploading Files: We uploaded the corresponding website archives to their new directories and unpacked them.
• Creating and Importing Databases: For each website, we created a new database on the new host. Then, using the phpMyAdmin tool, we imported the previously saved SQL files.
• Connecting to Databases: The most crucial step was configuring the configuration files for each website. We changed the database access data (username, password, database name) to the new ones, which ensured the correct connection of the websites to their content.

Stage 4: Security and Finalization

After all sites were deployed and working successfully on the new host, we proceeded with implementing security measures. This is not just a formality but a mandatory step that protects projects from potential threats.

• Changing Access Data: We changed all passwords and usernames for the databases, FTP accounts, and administrative panels of the websites. This ensures that old data, which could have been compromised on previous hosts, can no longer be used.
• Deleting Old Data: After the client confirmed the correct operation of all sites, we completely deleted all files and databases from the old hosting accounts. This prevented duplication and potential risks associated with outdated copies of the sites.
• Creating Backups: An automatic backup system was set up on the new host for all four websites. We also created full initial copies of all sites after migration and provided them to the client. This ensures the possibility of a quick recovery in case of any unforeseen situation.

Result obtained