Common Website Migration Problems and How to Fix Them

Most migration problems come down to a handful of recurring causes. Knowing what to look for makes them quick to diagnose and fix.

Database Connection Errors

A page showing an error connecting to the database almost always means the config still points at the old server.

1. Update the database host, name, user, and password to the new cPanel values.
2. Remember cPanel prefixes both the database name and username.
3. Confirm the database user has full privileges on the database.

Broken Links and Missing Images

These usually result from path or case issues:

• Linux servers are case-sensitive, so Image.JPG and image.jpg differ.
• Hardcoded links pointing to the old domain or a staging URL break.
• Search and replace old URLs in the database if needed.

Mixed Content Warnings

After enabling SSL, pages may still load some assets over HTTP.

1. Update internal links to use HTTPS or protocol-relative paths.
2. Check that stylesheets and scripts load over HTTPS.
3. Use the browser console to find the offending resources.

Email Not Arriving

| Symptom | Likely cause | |---------|--------------| | No incoming mail | MX records not updated | | Cannot send | Wrong SMTP host or port | | Mail goes to spam | Missing SPF or DKIM record |

Permission and 403 Errors

1. Set folders to 755 and files to 644.
2. Make sure index.html or index.php exists in the directory.
3. Check that .htaccess rules are valid for the new server.

If a problem persists after these checks, contact support via WhatsApp +254 796 358081 or the /contact page with the exact error message so it can be traced quickly.