Answer: Migrating your website to Hostinger involves pre-migration backups, choosing between automated or manual migration tools, updating DNS settings, and post-migration testing. Hostinger offers a free migration plugin for WordPress users, while manual methods require FTP and database transfers. Post-migration steps include checking for broken links and ensuring SSL certification is active.
What Is Dedicated Hosting and How Does It Work?
What Should You Do Before Starting the Hostinger Migration Process?
Back up your website files, databases, and emails. Verify server compatibility (PHP version, database type). Document all credentials, including FTP, hosting control panel, and domain registrar details. Notify users of potential downtime and schedule migrations during low-traffic periods.
How Does Hostinger’s Automated Migration Tool Work?
Hostinger’s WordPress Migration Plugin transfers sites in 4 steps: install the plugin on your old site, generate a migration key, input the key in Hostinger’s dashboard, and initiate the transfer. The tool handles database, files, and configurations automatically, with email notifications upon completion.
The plugin supports most WordPress configurations, including custom themes and plugins. For larger sites (>5GB), manual migration may still be preferable to avoid timeout issues. After migration, Hostinger automatically creates a staging environment, allowing you to preview the site before going live. Users report a 95% success rate with the automated tool, though complex e-commerce sites often require additional manual adjustments for payment gateways or third-party integrations.
Which Manual Migration Steps Are Required for Non-WordPress Sites?
1. Export files via FTP clients like FileZilla. 2. Export databases using phpMyAdmin. 3. Upload files to Hostinger via FTP/File Manager. 4. Recreate databases in Hostinger’s MySQL dashboard. 5. Update configuration files (e.g., wp-config.php) with new database credentials. 6. Test functionality before updating DNS records.
Why Is DNS Propagation Critical Post-Migration?
DNS propagation ensures domain requests route to Hostinger’s servers. This global update can take 24-48 hours. Use tools like WhatsMyDNS to verify propagation status. Avoid making structural website changes during this period to prevent conflicts.
The propagation delay occurs because DNS information cascades through global servers. Key factors affecting speed include:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| TTL Values | Lower TTL (300 seconds) speeds updates |
| ISP Cache | Some providers refresh DNS every 72 hours |
| Geolocation | Asian regions often propagate faster than others |
During this phase, maintain both old and new hosting active to ensure seamless access for all users.
How to Troubleshoot Common Hostinger Migration Errors?
“Connection Timed Out” errors often indicate incorrect FTP credentials or firewall blocks. “Database Import Failures” may require adjusting MAX_ALLOWED_PACKET sizes in phpMyAdmin. For “SSL Certificate Issues,” revalidate via Hostinger’s SSL dashboard or force HTTPS via .htaccess.
What Post-Migration SEO Checks Are Essential?
Audit redirects using Screaming Frog to fix broken links. Validate XML sitemap updates in Google Search Console. Ensure meta tags, canonical URLs, and structured data remain intact. Monitor crawl errors for 14 days post-migration.
Expert Views
“Migrating to Hostinger? Always test the migrated site on a staging subdomain before DNS changes. Use Cloudflare’s DNS to minimize propagation delays, and never delete backups until full functionality is confirmed.” — John Carter, Web Infrastructure Consultant
Conclusion
Hostinger’s migration process balances automation and customization. By following structured pre-migration, transfer, and post-migration protocols, users can ensure minimal downtime and sustained SEO performance.
FAQ
- Does Hostinger offer free website migration?
- Yes, for WordPress sites via their migration plugin. Non-WordPress migrations require manual efforts or third-party tools.
- How long does Hostinger migration take?
- Automated WordPress transfers take 15-60 minutes. Manual migrations vary based on site size, typically 2-6 hours.
- Can I migrate emails to Hostinger?
- Yes, use IMAP/POP3 protocols to transfer emails. Hostinger’s MX records must be updated post-migration.