This is a website that started as a startup but was unsuccessful. The engine and everything else were created entirely from scratch. It contains approximately 75,000 pages, with mostly text and images. Currently, the project has been put on hold indefinitely until better times come around. However, it's important to figure out how to preserve this content before shutting down the site completely.

It might seem easy to shut down the hosting and end the website, but it's not as simple as that. The question remains - how can this be done correctly?

To ensure data preservation, it is recommended to create a backup of the database by implementing step 1. Additionally, step 2 entails including all static files in the archive to safeguard complete site materials. It's important to save these steps (1 and 2) onto your own computer for future reference.
Finally, when encountering any technical difficulties resulting in website closure, it's advisable to either insert a placeholder text or contact the host for assistance.

It's always essential to have a contingency plan in place should website maintenance problems arise. One may also consider regularly updating their backup practices to keep data safe and secure.

Look for a hosting provider who may be willing to host your project for free in exchange for placing a small advertisement on your website. Consider announcing that the project is temporarily frozen and place a banner somewhere advertising the free hosting.

However, it is important to remember to pay for the domain and avoid transferring it to a free host. It is also critical to make backup copies of the project's files and databases in advance and store them in several reliable locations, including locally on flash drives or different hard drives.
Rather than completely shutting down the site, preserve backups for future use. Paying for domain renewal is a small cost that is definitely worthwhile.

To avoid dropping out of search engines, host the website on the cheapest option and keep it running until a better option is available.
Additionally, consider creating step-by-step instructions with screenshots for restoring the website if necessary. Restoring the website will ensure all notes are preserved and easily accessible.

We need to create a comprehensive backup of all the content. This includes text, images, and any other multimedia. We can use various tools like file transfer protocol (FTP) clients or a web-based backup solution to download all the files to a local machine or an external hard drive. Make sure to include the media folders and any custom codes we may have implemented.

Second, we should consider exporting the database if our site was built on a content management system (CMS) like WordPress or Joomla. This step is crucial as it contains all the dynamic content, user data, and configurations. We can use tools such as phpMyAdmin for exporting the database in SQL format. It's essential to sanitize sensitive user information if we're not planning to use or display this data anymore.

Next, we may also want to create a static version of the site. There are tools like HTTrack or SiteSucker that can help download the entire site as static HTML files. This way, we can keep the content accessible even if the dynamic functionality is lost. The links would need to be updated to reflect the new file paths, but it ensures that the information isn't completely lost.

After securing the data, it's wise to consider dоcumenting everything. This includes keeping notes on the technology stack used, how the site was structured, and any particular functionalities that were unique. This dоcumentation could be beneficial if someone decides to revive the project in the future.

We must notify any users or members who were a part of the platform about the shutdown. Transparency is key; they should know why the project is ending and what will happen to their data, especially if it impacts their personal information.
Preserving a website before shutting it down involves creating complete backups of files and databases, potentially generating a static version, dоcumenting the project's details, and informing users. Even if the project is on hold, it doesn't mean we must lose all the hard work and effort put into it.

To properly put a website or project on hold communicate clearly with all stakeholders explaining the reasons and expected timeline. dоcument the current status, deliverables, and any pending tasks to ensure a smooth restart later. Update the website with a maintenance or on hold message for users if applicable. Finally, pause any ongoing resources like hosting or subscriptions to minimize costs.