What is a WordPress migration?
WordPress site migration is a process in which the contents of your site (including database, files, settings, etc.) are transferred from one server (hosting) to another. It can be comparable to moving to a new house: you need to pack all your belongings, move them to your new place and unpack them.
What are the ways to migrate a site?
- Manual Migration : This is the most complex method and requires good knowledge of WordPress, databases and FTP. Involves manual copying of site files and database export/import.
- Using plugins : For WordPress users, there are special plugins that simplify the migration process. These plugins automate most of the work.
- Migration Services : Some hosting providers offer migration services where hosting specialists handle the entire site migration process.
Top migration plugins
- Duplicator : One of the most popular migration plugins. It creates an archive of your website and database that can be easily transferred to another server.
- UpdraftPlus : Apart from backup features, this plugin also offers migration tools.
- Migrate Guru : A plugin focused on simplifying the migration process without putting your site at risk.
- All-in-One WP Migration : A plugin that provides reliable migration without size restrictions.
How to transfer a website using Duplicator?
- Installation and activation : Install and activate the Duplicator plugin on your current website.
- Create a package : Go to the Duplicator section and select "Create New". Follow the wizard's instructions to create a site archive.
- Uploading files to new hosting : Download the archive and the installer.php file from the Duplicator section. Then, using FTP or your hosting control panel, upload these files to the root directory of your new hosting.
- Run the installer : In your browser, go to the address
yournewdomain.com/installer.php
and follow the instructions. The installer will ask you to provide information about the database on the new hosting. - Site Test : Once the migration is complete, test all pages of the site to make sure everything is working correctly.
- Update Data : If your domain remains the same, update your details in Settings > General in your WordPress admin panel.