A WordPress migration requires both the website files and the database. Keep the old hosting active until the new copy has been fully tested.
### Before the migration
1. Update WordPress only if the current site is stable.
2. Create and download a complete backup.
3. Record the PHP version, database name, and any special DNS or email settings.
4. Lower the DNS TTL in advance if you manage the DNS and understand the setting.
### Move the website
You can use a reputable migration plugin or move the site manually. You can also contact our support for you to assist with the migration process.
For a manual migration:
1. Upload the WordPress files to the correct HillHost document root.
2. Create a new database and database user in cPanel.
3. Grant the user all required privileges on that database.
4. Import the old database through phpMyAdmin.
5. Update `wp-config.php` with the new database name, user, password, and host.
6. Test the new copy before changing DNS. HillHost support can advise on the safest preview method.
### Complete the migration
1. Point the domain to HillHost.
2. Issue or verify the SSL certificate.
3. Test the homepage, internal pages, admin login, forms, media, and permalinks.
4. Check scheduled tasks and outbound email.
5. Keep the old service unchanged for a short safety period.
If the domain name changes, use a WordPress-aware search-and-replace tool because serialized data can be damaged by ordinary database replacement.
**Related articles:** How to Create and Restore a cPanel Backup; How to Fix SSL Problems; Troubleshooting the WordPress Critical Error