How to Minimise Downtime When Transferring Your Website to Fast2Host

By following the steps below in order, you can usually move your website, email, and DNS with zero downtime. Most customers experience no disruption at all during migration.

1. Activate your hosting account.
   Your Fast2Host welcome email includes login details for Plesk or cPanel plus FTP/SFTP access. Upload your site files to:
   • Plesk: httpdocs/
   • cPanel: public_html/
2. Set your correct homepage file.
   Ensure your default file is index.html or index.php. Delete any placeholder file created during account setup.
3. Preview your website before switching DNS.
   You can test your site without affecting visitors:
   • Plesk: use the Preview button in Websites & Domains.
   • cPanel: use the temporary URL provided in your setup email.
   
   If unsure, our support team can generate a preview URL for you.
4. Create your email accounts early.
   Set up the required mailboxes in Plesk or cPanel so email is ready to receive once DNS updates.
5. Update your domain’s nameservers.
   Log in to your domain registrar and switch the nameservers to Fast2Host’s. This is usually instant but some registrars require confirmation.
6. Allow time for DNS propagation.
   Propagation typically completes within 12–48 hours. Some visitors may see your old host while others see your new one during this period.
7. Safely cancel your old hosting.
   Once your site and email work fully at Fast2Host for at least 24 hours, you can close your previous hosting account.

If you need any help during your migration, our Support Team can guide you through the process and assist with testing, DNS, or email setup.