Well, a change in host

greg — Tue, 13 May 2008 13:46:53 +0000

Well, a change in host should go smoothly. But in reality there can be plenty of potential issues.

One potential problem could be the server relative directory. That is when a file is called in a sub folder and includes items from parent folders you have to carefully navigate PHP to the correct folder.
This isn't a usual problem as long as you keep all the file and folder structures exactly the same as with the current host.

Not all hosts have the same modules and software installed. So make sure the new host has any software installed that your site requires.

Also PHP versions and MYSQL versions. There are difference in them and certain PHP code might not work if you move to a server with older/newer PHP version. Although nearly all PHP functions in newer PHP versions are backwards compatible. (not all though as some functions are removed in newer versions)

If the move is going to happen, find the host you are happy with and have a week (or two) change over period, wher you can upload your site to the new host and test everything works correctly. Giving you time to correct any issues before the site goes live.

The change over period is also useful as you can leave the site on both hosts for a few days when you change the domain nameservers.
While the internet is propagting to your new site, the old site will still be available to people in areas where the new site is not yet listed. Then you can have a rediector to the new site using the new IP.