+45 53 83 87 01Site migration refers to the process of moving a website from one domain or hosting environment to another. It encompasses a range of actions such as transferring site files, databases, and configurations, as well as updating domain settings to ensure that the website remains functional and accessible to users and search engines post-migration.
Importance in SEO:
Site migration is a critical procedure that carries significant SEO implications. When poorly executed, it can lead to issues such as broken links, lost traffic, and decreased search engine rankings due to disruption in site structure, content, and URL integrity.
Key considerations:
- Crawl the existing website to create a complete inventory of URLs.
- Develop a comprehensive migration plan that includes redirection mapping from old to new URLs.
- Implement 301 redirects to maintain link equity and direct users and search engines to the appropriate pages.
- Update the XML sitemap and submit it to search engines after migrating to aid in the re-indexing process.
- Monitor the site for 404 errors and correct them promptly to avoid user frustration and negative SEO consequences.
- Keep the old domain live with redirects for an extended period to ensure all search engine results point to the new domain.
Best practices:
- Conduct the migration during low-traffic periods to minimize disruption to users.
- Preserve URL structures whenever possible, or provide clear, search-engine-friendly redirects for changed URLs.
- Communicate the migration to stakeholders and users as necessary.
- Verify ownership of the new domain in search engine webmaster tools and update the websites address.
- Maintain consistent communication with web hosting providers and DNS registrars to prevent downtime.
Post-migration:
After a site migration, it is crucial to perform the following actions:
- Monitor traffic, rankings, and crawl status through analytical tools and search engine consoles.
- Re-check all redirects and fix any that are not functioning as intended.
- Ensure that search engines are indexing the new URLs and not the old ones.
- Check all internal and outbound links for accuracy and correct any that are broken or outdated.
By meticulously planning and executing a site migration, and by adhering to SEO best practices before, during, and after the process, the negative impact on search engine visibility and user experience can be minimized or entirely avoided.
