DreamHost Migration Guide: Step‑by‑Step Transfer Tutorial

By Azon Vault On May 6, 2026

DreamHost Migration Guide: Move Your Site Seamlessly

Whether you’re leaving a cheap shared host or consolidating multiple sites, moving to DreamHost doesn’t have to be a nightmare. This guide walks you through every step—domains, files, databases, and email—so you can switch with confidence.

Why Choose DreamHost?

99.9% uptime guarantee
Unlimited bandwidth & storage on most plans
Free SSL, automated backups, and easy WordPress installs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Pre‑Migration Checklist

Backup everything. Export databases, download files via FTP, and copy email archives.
Make a list of services. Note domains, subdomains, cron jobs, SSL certificates, and any custom PHP settings.
Test locally. If possible, set up a temporary staging environment on DreamHost to catch issues early.

Step 1: Add Your Domain to DreamHost

Log in to the DreamHost panel → Domains > Manage Domains → Add Hosting to a Domain/Sub‑Domain. Choose the appropriate plan, enable Free SSL, and save. DreamHost will automatically set up the DNS records, but you can keep your current nameservers until the final cut‑over.

Step 2: Transfer Your Website Files

Using FTP/SFTP

Open your favorite FTP client (FileZilla, Cyberduck, etc.).
Connect to your old host (username, password, host address).
Download the public_html (or www) folder to your computer.
Connect to DreamHost using the SFTP credentials found in Dash → Users → Manage Users.
Upload the folder to /home/yourusername/example.com/.

Using the DreamHost Migrator (WordPress)

If you run WordPress, the one‑click DreamPress migration tool can pull your site automatically. Just enter the source URL and admin credentials.

Step 3: Migrate Databases

Export the database from the old host via phpMyAdmin (or use mysqldump).
In DreamHost, go to Goodies > MySQL Databases → Create a new MySQL database. Record the database name, user, and password.
Open phpMyAdmin on DreamHost, select the new database, and import the .sql file.
Update your site’s configuration file (e.g., wp-config.php or config.php) with the new DB credentials.

Step 4: Move Email Accounts

DreamHost offers fully hosted IMAP/POP3 mailboxes.

Create matching mailboxes in Mail > Manage Email.
Use an email client (Thunderbird, Outlook) to copy messages via “Copy‑to‑Folder” or use the IMAP sync tool.
Update MX records (see DNS step) to point to mail.dreamhost.com.

Step 5: Update DNS & Go Live

When you’re ready, change the nameservers at your registrar to DreamHost’s: ns1.dreamhost.com, ns2.dreamhost.com, ns3.dreamhost.com. Propagation usually finishes within 24 hours.

Alternatively, keep existing nameservers and replace the A record with DreamHost’s IP address (found in the domain’s hosting details).

Post‑Migration Checklist

Test every page, form, and login.
Verify SSL is active (look for https:// and a padlock).
Check email deliverability with a tool like mail‑tester.com.
Set up automated backups in DreamHost → Backups > Automated Backups.

FAQ

Do I need to cancel my old hosting?

Wait until the DNS fully propagates and you’ve confirmed the site works on DreamHost. Then you can cancel to avoid double billing.

Can I migrate a large site with many GB of data?

Yes. For very large transfers, consider using DreamHost’s SSH/SCP method or contact support for a dedicated migration assistance.

Will my SEO rankings be affected?

As long as URLs stay identical and you implement 301 redirects for any changed URLs, rankings should remain stable.

Is there a free migration service?

DreamHost offers free WordPress migrations. For other platforms, their support team can help for a small fee.

What if I run into errors?

Check the DreamHost Knowledge Base, then open a ticket in the Dashboard. Their 24/7 support is very responsive.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Start your DreamHost account today, follow this guide, and enjoy faster loading times, reliable uptime, and hassle‑free management.

Get Started with DreamHost Now