🔁 How to Easily Move a WordPress Site to Another Domain

🔁 How to Easily Move a WordPress Site to Another Domain

Arnold

• 18 Jun, 2024
• 225 Views
• 2 Comments

“sierratech” team prepare for you next article. Learn the best methods to seamlessly transfer your WordPress website to a new domain with our comprehensive step-by-step guide.

🔁 How to Easily Move a WordPress Site to Another Domain

How to Easily Move a WordPress Site to Another Domain

Moving your WordPress site to a new domain can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, you can transfer your site seamlessly without losing data or traffic. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you can move your WordPress site to another domain with ease.

Step 1: Backup Your WordPress Site

Before making any changes, it’s crucial to back up your entire WordPress site. This includes your database and all files.

• Use a Backup Plugin: Install and activate a backup plugin like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy. These tools make it simple to create a complete backup.
• Manual Backup: You can also manually backup your site via your hosting provider’s cPanel (move wordpress site to new domain cpanel). Export your database using phpMyAdmin and download your WordPress files via FTP.

Step 2: Set Up Your New Domain

You’ll need to register your new domain and set up your hosting account. Most hosting providers offer domain registration services.

• Register Your Domain: Choose a reliable domain registrar and register your new domain name.
• Update DNS Settings: Point your new domain to your hosting provider by updating the DNS settings. This process can take up to 48 hours.

Step 3: Transfer Your WordPress Files

Now, it’s time to transfer your WordPress files to the new domain.

• Download Files: Use an FTP client to download all files from your existing domain.
• Upload to New Domain: Upload the downloaded files to your new domain’s root directory using the FTP client.

Step 4: Update the Database

You need to update your WordPress database to reflect the new domain.

• Export Database: Export your database from your old site using phpMyAdmin.
• Import Database: Import the database to your new domain’s database using phpMyAdmin. Make sure to create a new database and user if needed.
• Update Site URL: Use a tool like the Better Search Replace plugin to update all instances of the old domain to the new domain in your database.

Step 5: Configure WordPress Settings

After updating your database, configure your WordPress settings for the new domain.

• Update wp-config.php: Edit the wp-config.php file to update the database name, user, and password for the new domain.
• Permalinks: Go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Settings > Permalinks, and re-save your permalinks to ensure they work correctly on the new domain.

Step 6: Test Your Site

It’s crucial to test your site thoroughly after the move.

• Check Links: Ensure all internal links are updated and working correctly.
• Functionality: Test all site functionalities, including forms, plugins, and themes.

Step 7: Notify Search Engines

Let search engines know about your domain change to maintain your SEO rankings.

• 301 Redirects: Set up 301 redirects from your old domain to the new domain to preserve SEO value.
• Google Search Console: Update your domain in Google Search Console and submit a change of address request.

Moving a WordPress site to another domain doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition with minimal downtime. Happy migrating!

Migrate wordpress site to new domain plugin

migrate wordpress site to new domain plugin

“sierratech” prepare for you list of plugins that can help you migrate a WordPress site to a new domain, along with short descriptions:

1. Duplicator

Description: Duplicator simplifies the process of moving a WordPress site to a new domain. It creates a package containing your site’s plugins, themes, content, database, and WordPress files, allowing you to easily migrate, copy, or clone your site.

2. All-in-One WP Migration

Description: This plugin provides a straightforward solution for migrating your WordPress site. It exports your entire site including the database, media files, plugins, and themes. You can then import it to your new domain with a few clicks.

3. WP Migrate DB

Description: WP Migrate DB is perfect for developers who need to export their database, perform a search and replace on URLs and file paths, and then import it into the new site. The Pro version includes additional features like media files migration.

4. UpdraftPlus Premium

Description: UpdraftPlus is a powerful backup plugin that also offers a migration tool in its premium version. It allows you to clone your site and move it to a new domain seamlessly, while ensuring that all files and databases are accurately transferred.

5. BackupBuddy

Description: BackupBuddy not only backs up your entire WordPress site but also provides tools to migrate it to a new domain. Its import tool makes it easy to move your site, ensuring that all settings, content, and configurations are intact.

6. SiteGround Migrator

Description: Designed specifically for SiteGround hosting users, this free plugin automates the migration process. It transfers your site files and databases to your new SiteGround hosting account effortlessly.

7. Migrate Guru

Description: Migrate Guru is a free plugin designed for large site migrations. It simplifies the process by handling the entire migration on its own servers, ensuring a fast and reliable transfer without risking site downtime.

8. WPvivid Backup Plugin

Description: WPvivid is a versatile plugin that offers both backup and migration features. It allows you to clone and migrate your WordPress site to a new domain or server with just a few clicks, ensuring data integrity throughout the process.

Each of these plugins offers a unique set of features to help you move your WordPress site to a new domain, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free migration experience.