A website and its email may use the same domain but different providers. Moving WordPress hosting does not automatically move mailboxes, and changing DNS without preserving mail records can interrupt email. Before migration, identify where the website, domain registration and email are managed.
Inventory the accounts
Record the old host, new host, DNS provider, mail provider, SSL setup, site size and any CDN or firewall. Ask the email provider which MX, SPF, DKIM and related records must remain. Do not copy a DNS zone from memory; compare the existing records with the provider’s current requirements.
Prepare and validate the destination
Back up files and the database, transfer the site to the new host and test it using a staging URL or hosts-file preview when available. Check forms, media, administrator login and store flows. Preserve the mail records while updating only the website-related records required for the cutover. Coordinate the DNS change with the site owner and keep the old host active until the new site and mail are confirmed.
DNS changes may appear at different times for different visitors. Monitor both website and email after the switch and keep a rollback plan. A migration is complete only after the site is verified and the owner knows which service controls hosting, DNS and mail. Never cancel the old account before the agreed verification window ends.
Written by Code Papa, an independent WordPress developer based in the UAE with 15 years of experience.