The step that prevents disasters.
WHY IT MATTERS
Testing after switching means your visitors find the problems.
THE HOSTS FILE METHOD
An entry on your own computer pointing the domain at the new server.
Your machine sees the new site. Everyone else still sees the old one.
That lets you test completely with no risk.
WHAT TO TEST
Every page type Every form, and confirm notifications arrive Login, if applicable The checkout, including a real transaction if possible Images and downloads Anything interactive
WHAT PEOPLE SKIP AND REGRET
Forms. A contact form that silently fails is discovered weeks later.
The checkout. Test it properly.
FOR A SHOP
Place a test order end to end.
AFTER TESTING
Remove the hosts file entry.
Forgetting means you see the new server indefinitely while everyone else sees the old one.
IF SOMETHING FAILS
Fix it before switching, not after.
