Prepare a website for launch

Prepare the new site

Confirm which hosting service will serve the website and which provider handles DNS and email. Keep the old service working while you prepare the replacement. Download a recoverable backup of website files and any database, and record the existing DNS records.

Verify the essentials

• Confirm the domain uses the intended website document root.
• Test important pages, images, downloads, menus, and sign-in.
• Submit a test form and confirm it reaches the intended recipient.
• Check the main domain and any www address over HTTPS.
• Confirm the site's contact information and privacy notices are current.
• Check that development-only password protection or indexing restrictions are removed when appropriate.

Change the routing

Use the DNS instructions supplied for the actual hosting service. Update records at the authoritative DNS provider. A website change should not remove working MX, SPF, DKIM, or other mail records. Existing DNS caches can continue using earlier answers until their cache periods expire.

After launch

Test from another device and network. Check mail separately from the website. Keep the previous service and backup until you have confirmed the transition is successful and have a recovery plan. Ask support if you are unsure which records should change.