Bluehost Primary Domain Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to switch your primary domain on Bluehost but need help figuring out where to start? This guide will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to switch your primary domain on Bluehost. 

Whether launching a new website or just revamping your existing one, this guide will walk you through the process to ensure a smooth transition.

What is Bluehost?

Bluehost is a web hosting company that provides website owners a platform to launch their websites. Bluehost has been around since 2003 and is now one of the largest web-hosting companies in the world. Bluehost offers many services, including shared, VPS, and dedicated hosting. In addition, Bluehost provides customers with a range of domain registration services.

Why switch your Primary Domain to Bluehost?

You should switch your primary domain on Bluehost for many reasons. You may be looking to rebrand your website, or you may be launching a new site altogether. Whatever the reason, switching your primary domain on Bluehost can be beneficial.

Step 1: Backup your website

Before making any changes to your website’s domain, it’s essential to back up your website’s files and database. This step is crucial, ensuring you don’t lose any of your website’s data during the domain switch. Bluehost provides a backup tool that can help you quickly and easily back up your website.

Step 2: Add the new domain to your Bluehost account

Once you have backed up your website, it’s time to add the new domain to your Bluehost account. To do this, log in to your Bluehost account and navigate to the “Domains” section. From there, select “Assign.”

Step 3: Choose the new domain as the primary domain

After adding the new domain to your Bluehost account, you can now choose it as your primary domain. To do this, navigate to your Bluehost account’s “Domains” section and select “Manage.” From there, select the new domain and select “Make Primary.”

Step 4: Update your website’s settings

After switching your primary domain on Bluehost, you must update your website’s settings to ensure everything is working correctly. This step will vary depending on what CMS you are using, but generally, you must update the website URL in your settings.

Step 5: Update your website’s content

Once you have updated your website’s settings, it’s time to update your website’s content to reflect the new domain. This step involves updating links or internal URLs pointing to your old domain.

READ MORE: Bluehost vs. Wix: Which Hosting Service Is Good for You?

Step 6: Redirect the old domain to the new domain

After updating your website’s settings and content, you must redirect your old domain to your new domain. This step is important as it ensures that anyone visiting your old domain is automatically redirected to the new one.

FAQs

1. What happens to my old domain after switching my primary domain on Bluehost?

After switching your primary domain on Bluehost, your old domain will still be registered with Bluehost. However, your new domain will be your website’s primary domain.

2. How long does it take for the domain switch to take effect?

The domain switch on Bluehost typically takes a few hours to take effect. However, it can take up to 48 hours for the changes to propagate globally.

3. Will my website lose any SEO rankings after switching my primary domain?

Switching your primary domain on Bluehost can affect your website’s SEO ranking. However, following the steps in this guide can minimize any impact on your SEO ranking.

4. Can I switch my primary domain on Bluehost without downtime?

Switching your primary domain on Bluehost can cause some downtime. However, you can minimize downtime by completing the necessary steps quickly and efficiently.

5. Can I switch my primary domain on Bluehost with an SSL certificate installed?

Yes, you can switch your primary domain on Bluehost if you have an SSL certificate installed. However, you must install a new SSL certificate for your new domain.

Conclusion

Switching your primary domain on Bluehost can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new domain. 

Remember to back up your website before making any changes, add the new domain to your Bluehost account, choose the new domain as your primary domain, update your website’s settings and content, and redirect your old domain to your new domain. Completing these steps lets you switch your primary domain on Bluehost quickly and efficiently.