Migrating your WordPress website to a new host can seem daunting. However, it can bring numerous benefits, such as improved site performance, better security, and cost savings. This guide will take you through the entire process of migrating your WordPress website to a new host.
Pre-Migration Checklist
Before starting the migration process, you must take some necessary steps to ensure a smooth transfer. Here is a pre-migration checklist that you should follow:
- Take Backup of Website. This is the most crucial step before starting the migration process. Take a complete backup of your website, including all files, databases, and settings.
- Choose a New Hosting Provider. Look for a reliable hosting provider with the needed features, such as speed, security, and support.
- Install WordPress on New Server. Once you have chosen a new hosting provider, you need to install WordPress on the new server.
- Update Domain Name Servers (DNS). After you have installed WordPress on the new server, update your domain name servers to point to the new hosting provider.
- Moving WordPress Files to New Host
Once you have completed the pre-migration checklist, you can start moving your WordPress files to the new host. Here are the steps to follow:
- Exporting WordPress Database: Export the WordPress database from your old host using phpMyAdmin or a similar tool.
- Copying WordPress Files to New Host: Copy all the WordPress files, including themes, plugins, and media files, to the new host using an FTP client.
- Importing WordPress Database to New Host: Import the WordPress database to the new host using phpMyAdmin or a similar tool.
Configuring WordPress on New Host
When successfully migrating your WordPress website to the new hosting provider, it’s important to configure WordPress properly on the new host to ensure everything works correctly. Here are the steps you should follow:
Updating wp-config.php file:
The wp-config.php file is an essential file for the configuration of WordPress. You need to update the file with new database details and site URL to ensure that WordPress works correctly on the new host. Here’s how you can update the wp-config.php file:
- Log in to the new hosting account using an FTP client or the File Manager tool in the hosting control panel.
- Locate the wp-config.php file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
- Download a copy of the wp-config.php file as a backup before making any changes.
- Open the wp-config.php file and look for the database details section.
- Replace the database name, username, password, and host values with the new database details provided by the new hosting provider.
- Scroll down to the section that defines the WordPress site URL and replace the old URL with the new one.
Setting up Permalinks:
After updating the wp-config.php file, the next step is to configure the permalink structure in the WordPress settings to match the old one. This step ensures that all the links to your website’s pages and posts work correctly. Here’s how to set up permalinks:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard on the new host.
- Go to Settings > Permalinks in the left sidebar menu.
- Choose the permalink structure that matches the old one, or create a new one that’s similar.
- Click the “Save Changes” button to apply the new permalink structure.
Checking Website Functionality:
The final step in configuring WordPress on the new host is to test the website to ensure it functions correctly. This step ensures that all pages, posts, and media files have been migrated successfully. Here’s how to check your website functionality:
- Visit your website on the new host and browse through all pages and posts.
- Ensure that all media files, such as images and videos, are showing correctly.
- Check for broken links or 404 errors.
- Test any forms or contact pages to ensure that they’re functioning correctly.
By following these steps, you can configure WordPress on the new host and ensure that your website functions correctly.
DNS Propagation and Final Steps
After you have completed the migration process and configured WordPress on the new host, it’s time to update your DNS records and complete the final steps to ensure that your website is working correctly. Here are the steps to follow:
Updating DNS Records
The first step is to update your DNS records to point to the new hosting provider. This process can take up to 48 hours to complete, so it’s essential to start this step as soon as possible. Here’s how you can update your DNS records:
- Log in to your domain registrar’s account.
- Locate the DNS settings or the domain management area.
- Update the nameservers to point to the new hosting provider’s nameservers.
- Save the changes and wait for the DNS propagation to complete.
Testing Website
After the DNS propagation is complete, you should test your website to ensure everything is working correctly. This step ensures that all pages, posts, and media files are accessible without errors or issues. Here’s how to test your website:
- Visit your website on the new hosting provider’s server and check that all pages and posts are accessible.
- Ensure that all media files, such as images and videos, are showing correctly.
- Test any forms or contact pages to ensure that they’re functioning correctly.
- Check for broken links or 404 errors.
- Ensure that the website is running fast and without any lag.
Canceling Old Hosting Account
Once you’re sure that your website is functioning correctly on the new host, you can cancel your old hosting account. This step ensures you’re no longer paying for two hosting accounts and helps you avoid confusion or problems. Here’s how to cancel your old hosting account:
- Log in to your old hosting provider’s account.
- Go to the account management area and look for the option to cancel your account.
- Follow the steps to cancel your account.
- If you’ve paid in advance for your old hosting account, ensure that you’ve received a refund or credit for the unused portion of your hosting plan.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process of migrating your WordPress website to a new host and avoid any issues or problems with your website. Remember to update your DNS records, test your website, and cancel your old hosting account to complete the migration process.
Migrating Your WordPress Website – Final Thoughts
Migrating your WordPress website to a new host can seem like a complicated process, but with this ultimate guide, you can ensure a smooth transfer. Remember to backup your website, choose a reliable hosting provider, and follow the pre-migration checklist. When moving the WordPress files and database, make sure to configure WordPress correctly on the new host. After updating the DNS records, test the website and cancel your old hosting account. By following these steps, you can ensure a seamless transfer of your WordPress website to a new host.
