How to display and test the functionality of a website on a new server before changing the domain configuration?

Before making significant changes to your website’s configuration, such as redirecting to a new server or updating content, it’s important to ensure that everything works as planned. Whenever changes are implemented, there is always a risk of unexpected issues that may affect the site’s availability and functionality. To avoid these potential difficulties and ensure that the new configuration works correctly, it is advisable to test it on a beta version of your website. One way to achieve this is by installing a copy of the site on another server and changing the domain configuration in the host file. In this article, we will discuss how to use the host file to display your website on a new server while maintaining full control over the process and minimizing the risk of disruptions in site accessibility for end users.

What is a host file?

A host file is a text-based configuration file used in operating systems. It serves to map domain names to specific server IP addresses. The main function of the host file is to allow the local operating system to recognize which IP address corresponds to a particular domain name. When a user enters a web address (URL) into a browser or another program, the operating system consults the host file to check if there is a corresponding entry for that domain name. If such an entry exists, the system uses the assigned server IP address to establish a connection with that server; if not, it will search for it on the global network.

Thanks to the host file, we can control which IP addresses are assigned to specific domain names on our computer, which is useful when testing a website on a new server or changing the domain configuration. It is worth noting that the IP address change is only visible to us, while for global users the site will still be displayed from the old server.

Why is it important to test before changing the domain configuration?

Before making significant changes to your domain configuration, it is advisable to conduct tests for several important reasons:

• Avoid potential issues: Changes in domain configuration, such as redirecting traffic to a new server, can lead to various problems, such as configuration errors, incompatibility with applications, or server software issues. Testing helps to identify and resolve these issues before the changes are implemented.
• Ensure uninterrupted site operation: For websites, continuous availability and smooth operation are crucial. Testing ensures that the site will function properly even after the domain configuration changes, minimizing the risk of downtime or errors.
• Control the change process: By conducting tests, you maintain full control over the change process. You can see the effects of the changes and adjust the configuration if necessary before the changes become permanent.
• Avoid data loss: In some cases, changes in configuration can lead to data or information loss. Testing can help you avoid such unpleasant surprises.
• Evaluate user experience: It is important to test how the changes will affect the user experience before modifying the configuration. You can assess whether the site remains responsive and if all functions work correctly.
• Test the new server: If you plan to move your site to a new server, testing ensures that the new server meets expectations and is ready to handle user traffic.

How to edit domain routing in the host file?

Windows system

1. Locate the host file: You can do this using Notepad on your computer. Open the program and go to the “File” menu, then click “Open”. Remember to run the program as an administrator—otherwise, you won’t be able to save the changes. When searching for the file, use the following path:
   Windows 95, 98, and ME: Windows\hosts
   NT and 2000: WINNT\system32\drivers\etc\hosts
   Windows XP, 2003, and Vista: Windows\system32\drivers\etc\hosts
   Windows 7 and later: Windows\system32\drivers\etc\
2. Add an entry to the file: At the very bottom of the file, on a new line, add a short entry in the following format:
   “IP address” “Your-domain.com”, e.g., 13.47.120.128 wp-care.eu www.wp-care.eu
3. Save the file: The changes you made will take effect immediately. You can now preview your site on the new server (only on your computer!).

Linux system

1. Locate the host file: Use the following path to find the file:
   /etc/hosts
2. Open the file: Open the located file for editing. Remember to do so as a user with “root” privileges.
3. Add an entry: At the very bottom of the file, on a new line, add a short entry in the following format:
   “IP address” “Your-domain.com”, e.g., 13.47.120.128 wp-care.eu www.wp-care.eu
4. Save the file: The changes will take effect immediately. You can now preview your site on the new server (only on your computer!).

MacOS

1. Launch the Terminal application: Open the “Applications” menu, then “Utilities”, and finally “Terminal.”
2. Enter the command: In the terminal, type the following command:
   sudo nano /private/etc/hosts
3. Edit the host file: After entering the command, you will be prompted for your user password. The host file will then open. At the bottom of the file, on a new line, add a short entry in the following format:
   “IP address” “Your-domain.com”, e.g., 13.47.120.128 wp-care.eu www.wp-care.eu
4. Save the file: To save the file, press Ctrl + O, then press Enter, and finally Ctrl + X.

How to remove domain routing from the host file?

If you want to completely remove the domain routing, simply delete the previously added line of text. Do you need to temporarily disable it, but easily enable it again if needed? Add a “#” at the beginning of the line.

Summary

Conducting tests before changing the domain configuration is a crucial part of maintaining your website and ensuring its uninterrupted operation. By using the host file and the appropriate testing tools, you can avoid many potential issues and ensure that configuration changes are implemented seamlessly.

Remember that testing should not be a one-time activity. It is important to regularly monitor your site’s performance after making changes to ensure everything is working as expected. If needed, you can introduce additional adjustments and fine-tune the configuration.