In plain English
Files and database are copied to the new location, URLs inside the database are updated, and DNS is pointed at the new server.
Two things break most often: URLs left pointing at the old domain inside the database, and missing redirects when the domain or URL structure changed.
What to know
Copy files and database
Both halves.
Update URLs in the database
Search and replace, carefully.
Redirect if URLs changed
Old to new, mapped.
Verify before switching DNS
On a staging URL.
Why it matters
A migration that changes domain or URL structure is an SEO event as much as a technical one. Redirects and a post-move crawl are what protect the rankings.
Common mistakes
×No redirect map when URLs change.
×Old domain URLs left in the database.
×Switching DNS before testing the new site.
×No backup taken before starting.
FAQs
Will migrating hurt my rankings?
Not if URLs are preserved or properly redirected.
What should I check afterwards?
Crawl the site for broken links, and check Search Console for errors.
WRITTEN BY TARIQ SALLAM
Marketing Consultant. Entrepreneur. Content Creator.
I'm a marketing consultant, entrepreneur and content creator. I help businesses grow through practical marketing, websites, SEO, content and AI.
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