Introduction

Before updating DNS during a website migration, you can verify whether the website is loading correctly from the new server using a temporary URL or the hosts file method.

Prerequisites

Before checking domain propagation, ensure:

  • Website files and databases are migrated to the new server
  • New server IP address is available
  • Access to edit the local hosts file on your computer
  • Browser cache cleared after making hosts file changes
  • Basic knowledge of DNS and website migration processes

Implementation

Method 1: Using Temporary URL

You can access the website using the temporary URL:

http://111.118.173.210/~buy13340

Note

This method may have some limitations:

  • Website may not load properly
  • CSS/images may not appear correctly
  • Database connections may fail

Method 2: Using Hosts File (Recommended)

Add the following line to your local hosts file:

111.118.173.210 buynsave.com.au www.buynsave.com.au

Here:

  • 111.118.173.210 = New server IP
  • buynsave.com.au = Domain name

Hosts File Location

Linux / UNIX

/etc/hosts

Windows

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

macOS

/private/etc/hosts

Verification

After saving the hosts file, open:

http://buynsave.com.au

To confirm the website is loading from the new server:

ping buynsave.com.au

If it resolves to the new server IP, then the site is loading from the new server.

Conclusion

The hosts file method is the recommended way to test a migrated website before DNS propagation. It allows you to verify the website directly from the new server without affecting public visitors.

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