Website migration checklist: files, DNS and email
A website move can affect more than the homepage. The site may depend on a database, email, DNS records, scheduled jobs, certificates and external integrations.
Inventory before copying
Record the application and runtime versions, site files, databases, media, form delivery and background jobs. Keep credentials in a secure manager, not in the migration checklist. Record existing DNS values so changes can be reversed.
Verify the destination privately
- Restore the site into the new environment and confirm content and media.
- Test forms without sending unintended customer emails.
- Check HTTPS, redirects and the intended domain.
- Confirm that backups include the new location.
- Keep customer/account activity from being overwritten by an old copy.
Change only the required DNS records
A website move may need an address-record change rather than a nameserver change. Moving nameservers without recreating mail records can interrupt email. Plan for cached DNS answers and verify from more than one network.
Keep a rollback window
Do not cancel the old service immediately. Record the cutover time, test important URLs and compare new database activity before considering a rollback. Reverting DNS does not automatically reconcile records written to the new site. Use support if the application has changing customer data that cannot safely be merged.
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