How To Move WordPress Website To New Host or Domain

Introduction on website migration WordPress

Are you interested in learning how to transfer your WordPress site to a new host?

In this article, IntexSoft is here to guide you through every step of this process. From preparing your site for migration to safely transfer all your files, databases, and settings, we’ll provide comprehensive insights into the essentials you need to ensure a smooth transition without any downtime or data loss.

Additionally, we will provide some tips to help you avoid common curveballs and troubleshoot issues that may arise.

What are Compelling Reasons to Migrate WordPress Site to Another Hosting Service?

What are the primary goals for your website in the foreseeable future? Is it improved customer support, better performance, or expand storage space? All of these and more are achievable if you transfer WordPress website.

To revitalize your online presence, here are the most sound reasons to make the manual wordpress migration switch:

Each of these reasons corresponds to either the host or domain aspect, and they can collectively contribute to enhancing your website’s performance, reach, and functionality.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move a WordPress Site

Migration WordPress Site to New Host

Select a New WordPress Host

Start your journey by examining a range of WordPress hosting providers available today. Consider their uptime assurances, performance metrics, and overall reliability. Delve into customer reviews, testimonials, and industry evaluations to avoid costly mistakes.

Prioritize providers that offer dependable uptime guarantees, ideally exceeding 99.9%. A robust hosting environment is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted website accessibility for visitors.

Familiarize yourself with the diverse hosting options:

Select a hosting type that fits your scale, traffic volume, and other technical specifications.

Once you’ve selected a suitable web hosting plan, install WordPress. Some WordPress hosts may offer automated migration services for your existing website. However, if you prefer a hands-on approach, you can proceed to the next step and undertake the whole process yourself!

Set up your new hosting account

After finalizing your choice of hosting plan and successfully registering with your hosting provider, you’ll be granted entry into your hosting control panel. This centralized dashboard empowers you to monitor and administer various facets of your website efficiently.

Inside the hosting control panel, you have the ability to:

• Upload and organize files

• Configure database settings

• Manage domain names

• Implement security measures

• Install applications

• Monitor website performance metrics

• Create backups

Next, establish your hosting account to streamline the management of your website. 

Backup WordPress site

Create a backup to secure all your crucial files, databases, and settings. This proactive measure provides a safety buffer in case of unforeseen complications during the migration process.

Explore various backup methods:

Securely store your backups on external storage devices or cloud-based solutions. This step helps safeguard your data against potential loss or damage and ensures quick accessibility for recovery purposes during migration or emergencies.

Instal the new hosting environment

This step holds significant importance. Below is an extensive guide to assist you with this crucial stage: 

• Begin by configuring your domain settings in the control panel. If you’re switching to a new domain, modify the DNS records to direct traffic.

• Utilize the one-click installation feature.

• Verify your new hosting environment’s PHP and MySQL versions meet WordPress’s minimum requirements and are compatible with your site’s plugins and themes.

• After setting up email accounts, configure email forwarding, autoresponders, and other email settings according to your needs.

• Take steps to secure your new hosting environment. Enable SSL certificates for HTTPS encryption, configure firewalls, and install security plugins to safeguard your site from potential threats.

• Before migrating your actual site, create a test environment on the new hosting account. Use this space to thoroughly test website functionality, plugins, themes, and overall performance.

• Once WordPress is installed, adjustsite title, tagline, permalinks, and reading settings according to your preferences and site requirements.

Upload your site files

Here’s a straightforward guide to perform well in this process:

Exporting the Database

Exporting the database is a pivotal step in the meticulous process of migrating a WordPress site to a new hosting environment. Begin by accessing the intricate web of your current hosting control panel, where the nerve center of database management awaits your command. With precision, navigate through the interface to locate the database management section. Here lies the heart of your WordPress site’s data: posts, pages, comments, settings, and user profiles.

To initiate the database export, deploy a robust tool such as phpMyAdmin or harness the raw power of a command-line interface. Exercise discernment when selecting the export format, with SQL emerging as the preferred language for this digital exodus.

With careful action, transfer all the vital data of your website into a well-organized SQL file, ensuring its structure and integrity are maintained. 

Store this important digital file safely on your local computer. 

Creating a New Database

Importing the Database

Updating Database Connection Details

Optional: Updating Site URLs

When navigating a domain change amidst migration, it’s pivotal to synchronize the site URLs within your WordPress database. This has to harmonize with the refreshed domain. Leveraging a bespoke search and replace tool or an adept plugin tailored for URL transformations can accelerate this pivotal operation. By doing that, you will gain guarantees of a smooth amalgamation of your website with its revamped domain.

Testing the Migrated Site

After finalizing the database setup and configuration adjustments, conducting comprehensive testing of your migrated WordPress site is crucial. This entails meticulously examining all aspects, including pages, posts, media files, plugins, and functionalities, to verify seamless functionality on the new hosting server. By rigorously testing every element, you can proactively ensure a smooth transition and address any potential issues. 

Updating DNS

In the event of a domain name change or DNS settings adjustment, updating the DNS records to align with your new hosting server is essential. Access the dashboard of your domain registrar or DNS hosting provider to navigate to the DNS settings section. Here, you can modify the DNS records to accurately direct traffic to your new hosting server. Be sure to update the A records, CNAME records, or any other relevant DNS entries as per the specifications provided by your new hosting provider. This step ensures seamless connectivity and optimal performance of your website.

Migration WordPress Site to New Domain

Choose a new domain name

Search for the perfect domain name that speaks volumes about your brand, resonates with your audience, and aligns seamlessly with your prime business objectives. Brainstorm a plethora of potential names infused with SEO-friendly keywords tailored to your niche. Ensure each name not only captures attention but also enhances your visibility on search engines.

As you venture into this domain quest, avoid any trademark or copyright infringements. Delve into the essence of each name, evaluating its memorability, uniqueness, and user-friendly attributes. Strive for a domain that effortlessly rolls off the tongue, accurately reflecting your website’s essence and offerings.

Backup your WordPress site

Secure your WordPress site with robust backup solutions that cover all aspects, from files and databases to themes, plugins, media, and settings.

Implement a backup schedule to ensure regular updates. Store these backups in secure off-site locations like cloud storage, external drives, or remote servers. Test these backups periodically to confirm their restorability in case of unforeseen events or data mishaps during migration. 

Update site URLs

• Log into your WordPress admin area.

• Go to Settings > General.

• Update the WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) fields with your new domain.

• Save the changes to finalize the URL update for your site.

Move the site files (optional)

Moving site files might not be required if you’re transitioning to a new domain but retaining the same hosting server. However, if you’re also changing hosting servers, consider these steps:

• Connect to your existing hosting server through FTP or File Manager.

• Download all WordPress files and directories to your computer.

• Upload these files to the new hosting server using FTP or File Manager.

• Make any adjustments or configurations needed to ensure a smooth functionality on the new server.

Test the migrated site

This involves checking all pages, posts, images, links, forms, and functionalities verify that they work as expected.

Additionally, you should test your website across different devices and browsers to ensure compatibility and responsiveness. You should also conduct a performance check to confirm that your site loads quickly.

Furthermore, optimizing SEO elements such as meta tags, titles, and descriptions for the new domain is essential for better visibility. You should also test any additional features or plugins to ensure they integrate seamlessly with the new domain.

Consider involving user testing or seeking feedback from others to identify potential issues or improvement areas. This comprehensive testing process helps ensure a successful migration to the new domain without disruptions or usability issues.

Update DNS records

• Access your domain registrar account where your domain is managed. Look for the DNS management section, often labeled as “DNS settings” or “Name Servers.”

• Find the A record, which points your domain to your website’s IP address. Revise it with the fresh IP address furnished by your recently acquired hosting provider.

• Don’t forget to update other DNS records like CNAME records for subdomains or MX records for email if needed.

• Save your changes and allow time for DNS propagation, which usually takes a few hours.

Tools for WordPress Site Transfer

Delve into a realm of essential tools tailored to facilitate seamless transitions during WordPress site transfers. From cutting-edge migration plugins to remote management solutions, these utilities boast many features, including backup mechanisms, optimization tools, real-time tracking capabilities, and URL rewriting functionalities. Navigate through the detailed table below to find the ideal tool for your WordPress site transfer requirements. These tools will empower you to manage and enhance your online presence effectively.

Tools to migrate WordPress to another server

Migrate WordPress Website to New Domain With IntexSoft

This article details every facet of the migration journey, from the meticulous selection of a new host or domain to the testing of the migrated site and the updating of DNS records. By adhering to these outlined steps and employing the appropriate tools, you are poised to execute a seamless transition devoid of any operational interruptions. 

IntexSoft stands ready to equip you with the expertise and resources essential for successfully move WordPress site to new domain. With our methodical guidance and profound insights, you will adeptly navigate the migration terrain. Contact us.