How to Migrate a Website to a New Host in 2026 –
Step-by-Step Guide

Why Migrate to a New Web Host?

Common reasons to switch hosting providers: current host is too slow, prices are too high, poor customer support, or you want better features. Migrating to Hostinger can dramatically improve your site speed while cutting costs.

Before You Start – Create a Backup

Always create a complete backup of your website before migrating. In WordPress: install UpdraftPlus plugin, run a full backup, and download both the database and files to your computer.

Option 1 – Use Hostinger's Free Migration Service

The easiest method. Hostinger offers free website migration on all hosting plans. Simply submit a migration request in hPanel and their team migrates your entire website within 24 hours. Zero technical knowledge required.

Option 2 – Use Duplicator Plugin (WordPress)

1. Install Duplicator plugin on your old site
2. Create a "package" (archive of all files and database)
3. Download the installer.php and archive.zip files
4. Sign up for Hostinger and create a new website
5. Upload installer.php and archive.zip to your new hosting via File Manager
6. Run the installer at yournewhostingdomain.com/installer.php
7. Follow the setup wizard — Duplicator installs everything automatically

Option 3 – Manual Migration

1. Export WordPress database via phpMyAdmin on old host
2. Download all website files via FTP or File Manager
3. Create new database on Hostinger hPanel
4. Import database via Hostinger phpMyAdmin
5. Upload all files to new hosting via File Manager
6. Update wp-config.php with new database details
7. Update domain DNS settings to point to new host

After Migration – Final Steps

• Test your website thoroughly before changing DNS
• Update your domain's nameservers to point to Hostinger
• Wait 24-48 hours for DNS propagation
• Check Google Search Console — re-verify if needed
• Cancel old hosting after 2-3 days (once confirmed everything works)