How to Migrate a WordPress Website to a New Server

Sun-May-2023
10

To migrate a WordPress website to a new server, follow these general steps:

  1. Set up the New Server:
    • Choose a new hosting provider and set up a server environment that meets the requirements for running WordPress.
    • Install a fresh WordPress installation on the new server.
  2. Backup Your WordPress Website:
    • Create a backup of your WordPress files: Use FTP or a file manager in your hosting control panel to download all files from the current server to your local computer.
    • Export the WordPress database: Access your current hosting control panel and export the WordPress database as an SQL file.
  3. Create a New Database on the New Server:
    • Access your new hosting control panel and create a new empty MySQL database.
    • Note down the database name, username, and password, as you will need them in the next steps.
  4. Upload WordPress Files to the New Server:
    • Connect to the new server using FTP or a file manager and upload the WordPress files that you downloaded earlier to the appropriate directory.
  5. Import the Database:
    • Access your new hosting control panel and locate the database management tool (usually phpMyAdmin).
    • Import the SQL file you exported from the old server into the new database you created.
  6. Update the wp-config.php File:
    • In the WordPress files on the new server, locate the wp-config.php file.
    • Edit the file and update the database name, username, password, and database host to match the details of the new server.
  7. Replace URLs (optional):
    • If your domain name or URL structure has changed, you may need to update the URLs within your WordPress database.
    • You can use a search and replace tool or a plugin like Velvet Blues Update URLs to replace old URLs with the new ones.
  8. Update DNS and Test:
    • Update the DNS settings for your domain to point to the new server.
    • Wait for the DNS propagation to complete.
    • Access your WordPress site using the new domain and test its functionality to ensure everything is working as expected.

It’s important to note that the specific steps may vary depending on your hosting provider and server configuration. If you’re not comfortable performing the migration yourself, consider consulting your hosting provider or hiring a professional WordPress developer to assist you with the process. Additionally, always make sure to have a backup of your WordPress files and database before making any changes.