Changing your domain name can seem daunting as there is always a fear of losing your content and hard work. This is primarily a concern for those unfamiliar with the process.
However, you can choose to change the domain name on your own or hire an expert representative from a domain hosting provider to manage your intricacies.
This article will discuss the procedure for changing your website’s NZ domain name. Let’s begin.
What is a Domain Name?
A domain name refers to the name of your website. It is just like a physical address that helps users find your site easily on the internet. Simply put, a domain name is an easy-to-remember website’s IP address that helps users access a website. A domain name has two main segments: the second-level domain and the top-level domain.
For example, in a domain name “example123.com”, the main part of the domain, “example123” is the second-level domain and the latter part “.com” is the top-level domain.
Steps to Follow Before Changing a Domain Name
Are you thinking about how to change a domain name? Follow the steps below to have a better understanding of the process:
- Keep in Mind the Reason Behind Changing the Domain Name
Before you wish to change your domain name, you should be clear about the reasons, such as changing from a lengthy address to a shorter one or changing an extension. Write down every reason in advance so you face no issues while carrying out the process.
- Backup the Website Content
It is important to back up your website content before you begin the process. If anything goes wrong while changing the domain, you can have a copy of all your previous work in hand.
- Research the Features of the Domain Host
Check if your current hosting provider gives you the feature to change the domain name. Also, learn about the assistance provided during the transition to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
- Download the Backup File
Download all the backed-up files before changing the domain name. In this way, you will have a copy of the files so that the data can be retrieved quickly without any hassle in case anything goes wrong.
- Make Use of the 301 Redirect
This is a simple way through which both your new and old visitors can access the content of your old domain on your new one. Follow the steps below to get a better idea of how to initiate a 301 redirect:
- Visit your Old Domain
Errors like redirection loops can significantly impact your website traffic. So, before changing your domain name, remember to adjust the settings for your previous domain.
- Visit the Admin Section of Your Hosting Account
This mainly refers to the place where you begin with your redirect settings. It is primarily found in the domain settings.
- Choose the 301 Redirect
When on the domain settings page, select add redirect or manage redirects, which may vary depending on your hosting account.
- Enter the Domain Name and Give the Redirect Location
After choosing the 301 redirects, enter and paste the new domain name in the redirect location area.
- Save It
Once you have done this, you can save it. At the bottom of the page, you will see a redirect code you need to set up on your new site.
Conclusion
Thus, changing a domain name can be easy, but only if you know the exact procedures. Doing your preliminary research before getting started is advisable. Read the steps above, and you will have a clear idea of how to migrate your old domain name to a new one.