Updated on February 7, 2026

Can I Switch Between Shared, VPS, or Dedicated Hosting?

Introduction

This article explains how you can switch between different hosting types — shared, VPS, or dedicated — and what you should consider before making the change. Understanding the process ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruption, especially when working with providers like BigCloudy.

Switching Hosting Types

Step 1: Understand Your Options

Shared Hosting → VPS Hosting
Ideal when your website grows and needs more performance, flexibility, and dedicated resources.
VPS Hosting → Dedicated Hosting
Suitable for high-traffic or resource-intensive websites requiring full server control.
Dedicated Hosting → VPS Hosting
All data will be fully migrated when downgrading from dedicated to VPS hosting.
Dedicated Hosting → Shared Hosting
When downgrading from dedicated to shared hosting, only domains will be migrated. Server-level configurations, applications, and custom setups are not transferable.

Tip: Each hosting type differs in performance, scalability, and management responsibility. Choose based on your current and future needs.

Step 2: Check Your Current Usage

Review disk space, bandwidth, and application requirements
Ensure the new hosting type supports:
- Your websites
- Databases
- Email accounts
- Installed applications

Step 3: Backup Your Data

Always back up your website and databases before switching hosting types.

Backup options include:

Downloading files via FTP or SFTP
Exporting databases
Using built-in backup tools in your hosting control panel

Step 4: Initiate the Switch

To start the hosting type switch:

You must contact the BigCloudy support team
Submit a request via submit BigCloudy Support.
The migration and switching process is handled free of cost by the support team
This ensures the transition is handled safely and correctly.

Step 5: Confirm the Migration Details

Before migration begins, confirm the following:

Resource allocation on the new hosting plan
Expected downtime (if any)
Billing adjustments or pro-rated charges
Contact the support team to confirm and verify all migration details before proceeding

Clear communication with support helps avoid issues during the switch.

Step 6: Test Your Website

After the hosting switch is complete, verify:

Website functionality
Database and email connections
DNS settings (if changes were required)

Warning: Improper migration can cause downtime or data loss. Always follow the support team’s instructions carefully.

Important Notes

Switching from shared → VPS or dedicated hosting may require manual data migration
Switching downward (VPS → shared) may require removing excess resources or features
Dedicated → shared hosting migrations are limited to domain-level transfers only
Always consult your hosting provider for professional migration support

Conclusion

You can switch between shared, VPS, or dedicated hosting depending on your performance, budget, and management needs. With proper planning, backups, and free assistance from BigCloudy’s support team, the transition can be smooth, secure, and disruption-free.