Overview
The following two options allow you to confirm how your site appears and functions at DreamHost before directing all visitor traffic to your new DreamHost server. During this time period, the site continues to load normally from your old hosting company.
Which option should I choose?
View your site using a 'hosts' file
This option is the most accurate way to view your site as it appears on DreamHost's servers, however it's more complicated as it involves editing a configuration file on your home computer. If you are uncomfortable with updating configuration files on your computer, use the dreamhosters.com option instead.
View your site using a free dreamhosters.com subdomain
A dreamhosters.com subdomain is a free subdomain that allows you to see what the site will look like at DreamHost before you make the final DNS change at your old hosting company. This is the easier of the two options as it does not involve editing any configuration files. You can create and manage the sites within your DreamHost panel.