Move wordpress to new host
A common task! Moving a WordPress site to a new host can be a bit involved, but I'll guide you through the process. Please note that this is a general outline, and you may need to adapt it to your specific situation.
Before you start:
- Backup your site: Make sure to backup your WordPress site, including the database and files, before making any changes. You can use plugins like UpdraftPlus or Duplicator to create a backup.
- Check your hosting plan: Verify that your new host meets the requirements for your WordPress site, including PHP version, MySQL version, and storage space.
Step 1: Prepare your new host
- Create a new account: Sign up for a new hosting plan with your chosen host.
- Set up a new database: Create a new database and note the database name, username, and password.
- Install PHP and MySQL: Ensure that PHP and MySQL are installed and configured on your new host.
Step 2: Transfer files
- Use FTP or SFTP: Use an FTP or SFTP client (like FileZilla) to connect to your new host and upload your WordPress files (wp-content, wp-includes, etc.).
- Upload files: Upload all files from your old host to your new host, except for the wp-config.php file (we'll handle that separately).
Step 3: Update wp-config.php
- Edit wp-config.php: Open the wp-config.php file on your old host and update the database settings to match your new host's database credentials.
- Upload updated wp-config.php: Upload the updated wp-config.php file to your new host.
Step 4: Update database
- Export database: Export your WordPress database from your old host using phpMyAdmin or a similar tool.
- Import database: Import the exported database into your new host's database using phpMyAdmin or a similar tool.
Step 5: Update site URL
- Update site URL: Log in to your WordPress dashboard and update the site URL to match your new host's URL.
Step 6: Test your site
- Visit your site: Visit your site to ensure it's working correctly and all files and database data have been transferred successfully.
Additional tips:
- Update plugins and themes: After the transfer, update your plugins and themes to ensure compatibility with your new host.
- Check for broken links: Use a plugin like Broken Link Checker to identify and fix any broken links on your site.
- Update DNS: Update your DNS settings to point to your new host's IP address.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully move your WordPress site to a new host. If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to ask!