How to Preview Your Website Before Updating DNS
When you migrate an existing website to Elitehost or develop a new website on your hosting account, you may want to test it before updating the domain's DNS.
Our Website Preview tool in cPanel generates a secure, temporary preview link that allows you to view the website directly from the new server. This lets you check that the website loads correctly and test its functionality before directing visitors to it. No hosts file modifications or DNS changes are required.
To generate a website preview link in cPanel, follow these steps:
- Log in to cPanel.
- In the Domains section, click on Website Preview.
- Click the Preview next to your domain to generate the temporary URL.
- Click any of the generated preview URLs to load them in a new browser tab.
Does Website Preview change my DNS?
No. Your DNS records remain unchanged until you update them. Website Preview simply provides a temporary proxy to your website on the new server.
Will visitors see the preview version?
No. Only people with the preview link can access the preview version of your website. Everyone else continues to visit your existing website until your DNS is updated.
Can I share the preview link?
Yes. You can share the link with developers, designers, or clients so they can review the website before it goes live.
Can I make changes while using Website Preview?
Yes. Any changes you make on the new hosting account will be visible when refreshing the preview page, allowing you to continue testing before switching DNS.
Why don't I need to edit my hosts file?
Website Preview automatically routes your request to the correct server, eliminating the need to modify your computer's host file. This makes testing faster, simpler and accessible even for non-technical users.
If you have any questions or experience any issues, please contact our support team via a support ticket or email helpdesk@elitehost.co.za.
Updated on: 20/07/2026
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