Moving your WordPress site to a new host might seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, it can be a straightforward process. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to migrate your WordPress website to a new host:

Migrating your WordPress site involves transferring your site files and database to a new host. While this can be done manually, there are also WordPress plugins available that can help automate this process.

Step 1: Backup Your Website

Before you start, it’s crucial to backup your website. This includes all your site files and the WordPress database. This can be done manually via your web host’s control panel or by using a WordPress backup plugin.

Step 2: Export Your WordPress Database

You’ll need to export a copy of your WordPress database. This can usually be done through the phpMyAdmin application in your web host’s control panel:

  • Open phpMyAdmin and select your WordPress database.
  • Click on the ‘Export’ tab.
  • Select ‘Quick’ export method, and ‘SQL’ for the format.
  • Click ‘Go’, and the export process will start. The database file will be downloaded to your computer.

Step 3: Upload Your WordPress Files to the New Host

Next, you need to upload your WordPress files to your new host:

  • Compress your WordPress files into a .zip file.
  • Connect to your new host using an FTP client and navigate to the root directory where your website will be held.
  • Upload the .zip file and then extract the files.

Step 4: Create a Database on Your New Host Server

You’ll need to create a new database at your new host:

  • Log into your new web host’s control panel and navigate to MySQL databases.
  • Create a new database and add a user to it with full permissions.

Step 5: Import Your WordPress Database

Now you’ll import your old database to your new host:

  • Open phpMyAdmin in your new host’s control panel and select your new database.
  • Click on the ‘Import’ tab.
  • Click ‘Choose File’ and select your old database file.
  • Make sure the format is set to ‘SQL’ and click ‘Go’.

Step 6: Update wp-config.php

The wp-config.php file contains your database information. You’ll need to update this file with your new database details:

  • Locate wp-config.php in your site files.
  • Replace the old database name, user, and password with the details of the new database you created.

Step 7: Update Your Domain

Finally, you’ll need to point your domain to your new host:

  • Go to your domain registrar’s website and log into your account.
  • Update your domain’s DNS settings to point to your new host. Your new host should provide you with their nameservers.

Step 8: Test Your Site

Before fully switching over, make sure to thoroughly test your site to make sure everything is working correctly.

Conclusion

Transferring your WordPress site to a new host involves several steps, but with careful execution, you can accomplish it with minimal downtime. Always ensure you have a backup before beginning the process, and take the time to check your site thoroughly after the migration.

Hey, I've worked with WordPress since I discovered it in 2006. During this time I've built websites for myself and clients (typically without writing code) and provided coaching and technical support to anyone who needed it. Send me an email if you need help - I'm always happy to do so whenever I can.