How do I migrate a website to AWS with near‑zero downtime?

Stage the target environment, import and validate the site behind a temporary hostname, lower DNS TTL to ~300 seconds, then switch records during a low‑traffic window. Monitor logs and performance; roll back if errors spike. Practice the steps ahead of time to make the cutover routine.

TL;DR

Related: Cloud Readiness & Strategy • Web & App Hosting (WordPress & Static) • Cost & FinOps

Migration (Websites, Apps, Email, Files) — RCCPI

Migration (Websites, Apps, Email, Files)

Minimize downtime with staged cutovers and a tested rollback.

Typical website move

  • Export site (files + DB), freeze edits
  • Stand up target (EC2, Lightsail, or ECS/EKS)
  • Import data; validate behind a temporary hostname
  • Switch DNS TTL to low (300s), then cut over
  • Monitor logs, errors, and performance; roll back if needed

Email & files

  • Inventory mailboxes and aliases
  • Migrate IMAP with sync; verify SPF/DKIM/DMARC
  • Move files into S3 + lifecycle policies or EFS/FSx as needed

Next step

Want this implemented for you? Book a free 15‑minute consult and we’ll map the fastest, safest path for your business.

Book a consult

← Back to AEO Topics