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Migration

How to Migrate a Site from Shared Hosting to a VPS

Last updated August 14, 2026

When a growing site keeps bumping into shared-hosting limits, a VPS (Virtual Private Server) gives you dedicated resources and full control. Migrating to one is a step up in power — and in responsibility. Here is how to know you are ready, and how to move without drama.

Signs you have outgrown shared hosting

  • You regularly hit resource limits despite optimising.
  • Traffic has grown and the site slows at busy times.
  • You need software or settings shared hosting does not allow.

What changes on a VPS

A VPS gives you guaranteed CPU and memory, root access, and freedom to configure the server. The trade-off is that you (or a managed plan) handle more of the administration — updates, security, and backups. If that sounds daunting, a managed VPS keeps much of it looked after.

Step 1: Prepare the VPS

Set up your control panel and PHP/database stack on the VPS so it is ready to receive the site. Install an SSL certificate as part of this.

Step 2: Move files and databases

  1. Transfer the files — rsync is ideal between servers.
  2. Export and import the databases, then update your config.

Step 3: Test, then switch DNS

Preview the site on the VPS and confirm everything works before pointing your domain at it — follow the zero-downtime checklist. Then update your nameservers.

Step 4: Harden the new server

A VPS is your responsibility to secure. Set up SSH key authentication, a firewall and Fail2Ban, and a backup routine from day one.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a Linux expert?

For an unmanaged VPS, solid server skills help a lot. If you would rather focus on your site, a managed VPS handles the heavy administration for you — ask us which fits your needs.

Will my site be faster on a VPS?

Usually yes, because resources are dedicated rather than shared. But a VPS is not magic — an unoptimised site still benefits from caching and clean code.

Can VernalWeb move me to a VPS?

Yes. Open a support ticket and we will recommend the right VPS and help migrate your site across safely.

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