Method 1: Changing Nameservers (Recommended)

This hands over "control" of your DNS to your new host. It’s the simplest way to ensure everything (website, subdomains, etc.) works correctly.

1. Get your new Nameservers: Log into your new hosting account and look for "Nameservers" (usually look like ns1.newhost.com and ns2.newhost.com).

2. Log into your Domain Registrar: This is where you bought the domain (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains).

3. Find DNS Management: Look for a section labeled "Nameservers" or "Manage DNS."

4. Select "Custom Nameservers": Choose the option to use your own nameservers rather than the registrar's defaults.

5. Paste and Save: Enter the nameservers provided by your new host and click save.

Method 2: Pointing the A Record

Use this if you only want the website to move, but you want to keep your email (like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365) exactly where it is.

1. Get the IP Address: Find your "Site IP" or "Server IP" in your new hosting dashboard (e.g., 123.45.67.89).

2. Go to DNS Settings: In your registrar's dashboard, look for the A Record.

3. Update the Value: * Host/Type: @ (or leave blank)

   • Value/Points to: Enter the new IP Address.

4. Update CNAME: Ensure your www CNAME record is pointing to your root domain (@).

Important Things to Remember

• Propagation Time: Changes are not instant. It can take anywhere from 1 to 48 hours for the whole world to see your site on the new server.

• SSL Certificates: Once the domain points to the new server, remember to install a new SSL certificate (most hosts offer a free "Let's Encrypt" option) so your site shows the "Secure" padlock.

• Don't Cancel the Old Host Yet: Wait until you verify the site is loading from the new server to avoid any downtime.

To permanently move the domain and the billing to your new provider, you are looking for a Domain Transfer. This is different from just "pointing" the domain—it moves the ownership and future renewal costs to the new company.

Prerequisites

Before you start, ensure:

• The 60-Day Rule: Most domains cannot be transferred if they were registered or transferred in the last 60 days.
• Contact Info: Ensure your email on the old registrar is up to date, as you'll need to click a confirmation link.

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

1. Prepare the Domain (at your OLD provider)

• • Unlock the Domain: Find the "Domain Lock" or "Registrar Lock" setting and turn it Off.
  • Get the Authorization Code: Look for a button that says "Transfer Out," "Get EPP Code," or "Auth Code." They will email this secret code to you.
  • Disable Privacy: If you have "Whois Privacy" or "Private Registration," turn it off temporarily so the new host can verify ownership.

2. Initiate the Transfer (at your NEW provider)

• • Go to their "Domain Transfer" page.
  • Enter your domain name.
  • Pay the Transfer Fee: Usually, you have to pay for one year of registration upfront. This doesn't "cost" extra; it just adds an additional year to your current expiration date.
  • Enter the Auth/EPP Code: Paste the code you got from your old provider.

3. Confirm and Wait

• • Check your Email: You will receive a "Transfer Request" email. You must click the link inside to authorize it.
  • Wait for Propagation: It takes roughly 5 to 7 days for a full transfer to complete. During this time, your website will still work as long as you don't cancel your old hosting.