Are you frustrated with slow website speeds or frequent downtime? If you’re considering making the switch from Bluehost DNS to BigScoots, you’re not alone—many website owners are searching for better reliability and performance.
Choosing the right DNS provider can dramatically affect your site’s speed, uptime, and even SEO ranking. Understanding how to move from Bluehost to BigScoots is key to ensuring a smooth transition and uninterrupted service.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire migration process, offering clear steps, helpful tips, and practical insights to make your switch as seamless as possible.
Moving from Bluehost DNS to BigScoots: The Complete Guide
Switching your website’s DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots can feel intimidating, but it’s a straightforward process when broken into clear steps. Whether you’re looking for better performance, more reliable support, or improved website speed, making the switch to BigScoots can be a rewarding move for your website.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about moving your DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots, including step-by-step instructions, benefits, tips, and answers to common questions. Let’s get started!
Understanding DNS and Why the Move Matters
DNS (Domain Name System) is the “phonebook” of the internet. When someone types your website address, DNS points them to the right server. If your DNS is with Bluehost, your domain points visitors to Bluehost’s servers. Moving your DNS to BigScoots means your domain will now direct visitors to BigScoots’ servers for faster, more reliable site access.
Why move your DNS to BigScoots?
– Improved website speed and uptime
– Streamlined support (DNS and hosting with one provider)
– Better integration with BigScoots’ performance features
– Simpler troubleshooting
Step-by-Step: Moving Your DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots
Preparation is key! Before making any changes, back up your website and double-check your current DNS settings.
1. Gather Your Domain Details
- Log in to your Bluehost dashboard.
- Locate your list of domains and identify the one you wish to move.
- Note down current DNS records (A record, CNAME, MX, etc.) or export them if possible.
2. Choose How to Move: Change Nameservers or Transfer the Domain
There are two common ways to move your DNS:
Option 1: Change Nameservers
You can keep your domain registered with Bluehost (or wherever it is) but point it to BigScoots by updating the nameservers.
Option 2: Transfer the Domain
Move your entire domain registration and DNS management to BigScoots. This brings everything under one roof.
Most users opt for Option 1, changing nameservers, as it’s quicker and simpler.
3. Find Your BigScoots Nameservers
- Log in to your BigScoots control panel or check your welcome email.
- Your new nameservers will look something like:
- ns1.bigscoots.com
- ns2.bigscoots.com
- Write these down carefully.
4. Update Nameservers at Bluehost
- Go to your domain management area in Bluehost.
- Select the domain you’re updating.
- Look for the “nameservers” or “DNS” option.
- Choose “Custom Nameservers” (as opposed to “Default” or “Bluehost”).
- Enter the BigScoots nameservers exactly as provided.
- Save or confirm your changes.
5. Allow DNS Propagation
DNS changes don’t take effect instantly. It can take up to 24-48 hours for the changes to spread across the internet. During this time:
– Your website might be reachable through both old and new servers
– Avoid making major website changes until the process is complete
6. Verify the Change
After 24-48 hours:
– Use a tool like “What’s My DNS” or simply check with your hosting provider that your domain points to BigScoots
– Make sure your website, emails, and other services are working as expected
Benefits of Switching Your DNS to BigScoots
Moving your DNS (and possibly domain registration) to BigScoots offers several advantages:
- Speed: BigScoots is known for blazing-fast, optimized servers.
- Reliability: Fewer outages and better uptime performance.
- Support: BigScoots’ support is rapid and personal, often solving issues in minutes.
- Simplicity: Managing both DNS and hosting in one place reduces technical confusion.
- Advanced Features: Unlock CDN integration, advanced caching, and security tweaks specific to BigScoots.
Common Challenges and How to Tackle Them
Switching DNS isn’t difficult, but a few hurdles can trip up beginners:
1. Website Downtime
- Solution: Ensure you have a backup before changing DNS. Double-check all DNS records (A, MX, CNAME) to avoid interruptions, especially for email.
2. Lost Email Service
- Solution: If you use email connected to your domain, make sure to copy over all necessary MX and related records exactly. Missing records can cause mail delivery issues.
3. DNS Propagation Delays
- Solution: Plan for up to 48 hours before everything returns to normal. Avoid urgent site or email updates during this window.
4. Incorrect Record Transfers
- Solution: You can export DNS records from Bluehost and import them, or manually recreate them in BigScoots. Double-check every record.
Practical Tips, Advice, and Best Practices
Before the Move
- Backup Everything: Save copies of your website and current DNS records.
- Monitor Your Site: Use a site monitoring tool to watch for downtime after switching.
- Schedule During Low Traffic: Make the switch when your site has fewer visitors.
During the Move
- Keep Both Accounts Active: Don’t close your Bluehost account or hosting until you confirm everything works on BigScoots.
- Test Email and Website: Check not just your homepage, but also other pages and email accounts.
After the Move
- Update SSL Certificates: Ensure your SSL certificates are active on BigScoots.
- Notify Team Members: Advise anyone with site or email access about the switch in case they notice any issues.
- Review Site Performance: You might notice improved speeds—track using speed testing tools!
Cost Tips: What to Budget For
Switching DNS itself is usually free. However, keep these pointers in mind:
- Domain Transfers: If you transfer your domain to BigScoots, most registrars charge a fee (often equal to a one-year renewal, which extends your registration).
- Hosting Costs: BigScoots isn’t the cheapest host, but the investment pays off in performance and support.
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Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable making changes, consider hiring a professional or using BigScoots’ free migration support for new clients.
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Pro Tip*: Avoid paying for unnecessary “add-on” services—focus on what you need, and consult with BigScoots’ support for recommendations tailored to your site.
Additional Insights: Domain Management on BigScoots
Once your DNS has switched to BigScoots, you’ll be able to:
- Add or edit DNS records (for email, subdomains, etc.)
- Manage domain forwarding
- Set up new subdomains or redirects with BigScoots support
Their control panel is user-friendly, and their support team can guide you through setting up more complex records—just ask!
Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps
Migrating your DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots is one of the best moves you can make for your website’s performance and reliability. With the steps and tips above, you’ll avoid the most common pitfalls, enjoy better support, and likely see improvements in speed and uptime.
Remember, preparation and double-checking your DNS records are key. If in doubt, BigScoots’ responsive support team is just a message away and can handle much of the heavy lifting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I move my domain registration to BigScoots or just change DNS?
You can do both! Many users keep their domain registered at their current provider but switch DNS to BigScoots for performance. If you want everything managed under one roof, you can also transfer the domain registration to BigScoots.
Will changing my DNS to BigScoots cause website downtime?
Usually not, if you follow the steps carefully and copy all your records correctly. Some propagation delays are normal, but careful planning minimizes downtime.
Do I need technical experience to switch DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots?
Basic technical skills help, but it’s mostly point-and-click through dashboards. If you get stuck, BigScoots has an excellent support team that can assist or even handle the migration for you.
What happens to my email if I switch DNS to BigScoots?
If your email is connected to your domain, ensure you copy all relevant MX and related DNS records into your new DNS setup at BigScoots. This will ensure your email service continues to function without interruption.
How long does it take for DNS changes to take effect?
DNS propagation typically takes 24 to 48 hours. During this time, some users may see your site on the new host, while others may still see the version on the old host until the changes finish propagating.
By moving your DNS from Bluehost to BigScoots, you’re putting your website in expert hands. With ample preparation, careful record management, and support just a click away, you’ll enjoy quicker sites, happier visitors, and less hassle!