Changing web hosting providers is a simple process, which can be accomplished with minimal hassle and downtime provided you follow some very simple steps. This Quick guide aims to ensure that switching to GVA is as painless as possible.

Sign up with our web hosting service
The first step would be to find the perfect web hosting package for your website and sign up with our web hosting services. Please remember not to cancel service with your old hosting provider, or tell them that you are moving at this point because they could terminate your site early and cause downtime.

Backup

Next make sure you have a full working copy of your website files, databases, cgi scripts, etc. stored on your computer. Download or record any pertinent email address settings, passwords, log file data, statistic reports, etc. from your current host.

Transfer your data

Upload (ftp) your website files to your new account with us, install and configure any databases, scripts, etc. Setup your email accounts.

Change your Domain's DNS

Modify/Transfer your domain name to use those provided in your welcome email.

Your name servers should look something like:
ns1.gvahosting.com and ns2.gvahosting.com depending on the server we put your site on

We will do this step for you if you transferred or registered your domain with us.

After you have made the DNS changes please allow up to 24 to 48 for your DNS to propagate worldwide. During this initial 24 to 48 hours period your site might work one minute then be offline the next. If after two days your site is still not working, please email hosting@gvaonline.co.uk immediately.

If you have any questions we would be more then happy to assist you, or even make the DNS changes for you.

Say good bye to your old web host

After 48 hours of updating your DNS, cancel web hosting service with your previous host provider.

Already paid someone else for service? We'll buy your contract out!

GVA makes it easy to move away from your current Web host, even if you already prepaid for hosting services. We'll reimburse you for that expense, so you don't have to be at a loss for those prepaid services. We will provide a credit to your account for the total prepaid amount, not to exceed £20 for the remainder of your previous provider's hosting services. Simply email hosting@gvaonline.co.uk with a copy of the welcome email you received from the previous company and a copy of your cancellation notice. We'll handle the rest!