You’re using the services of a hosting provider, so this means you’re locked in to their plan – right? Wrong! While you may have heard that it is difficult or practically impossible to change hosts, it is actually something that happens frequently in the online world.

There are many reasons to want to change hosting providers, from problems with your current provider to a great deal with a new host. Regardless of your reason for switching, there are a few things that will make the process run smoothly.

1. Make sure you have backed up all the website files, which is something you can do by logging in and downloading your information manually or with an FTP. Do the same for your email and any other data stored with your hosting provider.

2. Also, when you make the switch, ensure that things are clear with the registrar with which you have registered your domain name. Changing hosting providers often means you must redirect your domains to the new web server or DNS servers, unless your registrar is the same as your current web host. You can always check in with customer support if you have trouble with this.

3. Before finalizing the switch, take the time to consider if your desired hosting provider truly offers everything you need, from databases to software support.

If it all looks good, go ahead and switch!