Changing host and google

[ownerrim]

Could anyone advise of the potential dangers (regarding positioning on google) when it comes to switching hosts?

I've read up on this and it seems that problems may be encountered when a domain name change is involved, or when a current host (soon to be ex host) handles the DNS stuff.

In my case, that does not apply. The registrar handles the DNS and there will be no name change. I simply plan to secure new hosting elsewhere and point my DNS information at the new server. I.E. same site sitting in someone's else box somewhere else.

From what I've read, it may be a good idea to leave the files on the old server from anywhere from a couple of days to a week, but advice on this seems to conflict. Some postings have mentioned a danger of duplicate contact if the files are left on the old server too long.

Recommendations?

[Vadim]

I did similar. It was smooth. Just redirect with .htaccess permanently (code 301) all your old site to knew.

RewriteEngine On
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ [YourNewSite.com...] [R=301,L]

[eyezshine]

I just transferred a site to a dedicated server and it went smooth. But it took 4 days for the DNS to propigate.

Just wait until your old server get's 0 traffic and you'll be fine.