I am responsible for several domains (RobDog711.com, ByrdsBeads.com, BrinkOfDystopia.com, Fibrobeads.org) but had only two hosted (this one and ByrdsBeads, Amy’s lampwork site). Long ago I contacted my hosting facility (GoDaddy) and asked about a better package. They suggested either of the next steps would work. I previously used the Economy package. I’ve since decided to go with the unlimited package so I can host as many domains as needed. I now have all the domains listed above hosted under that package (although BOD and FibroBeads are still “parked” pages).

The first step was to upgrade my primary domain (RobDog711.com) to the unlimited package. My site was down for several hours but this was explained and expected. During this upgrade, I also decided to go with the Windows IIS package instead of my normal Unix / Apache choice but there’s good reason. With one more upgrade from IIS6 to IIS7, this gained me the ability to use PHP, ASP / VBS, MySQL, SQL, Access all on the same hosting package. This means I can not only continue to build PHP web sites, but I can also build ASP sites. I also have the ability to build my databases under the MySQL or Microsoft’s SQL. This will give me much more flexibility in my ability to learn advanced web design and production techniques. Yay!

After the upgrades, I was pleased to find out that the files and database were both moved to the new hosting facility. I had assumed I would have to upload the files and import the database manually. The only change made was the database connection information was updated. My site was up and running pretty quick.

I then setup the other domains under the package to their own file location and created a quick basic “coming soon” page. I even have ByrdsBeads working on the new server. All I have to do is cancel its old hosting package and point the domain to the new server.

I liked how easy it was to simply click around to figure out how to manipulate things quickly (like domains and where they point to, ftp user setups, etc). Another bonus is that no interruption in email came of the hosting upgrade (Email is normally handled completely separately than hosting web sites. This is why you can have a domain name and working email through that domain without an actual web site or hosting package).

The bad part of this was the day after I had my site up and running, I lost all FTP access. I had to contact support and it was fixed by the time I was home from work the next day. If this is the only inconvenience, it’s not the end of the world.