How to Migrate Your WordPress Site to a New Host

At KazeDigital, we understand that website migrations can seem daunting, especially when they involve moving your WordPress site to a new host. Whether you’re looking for better performance, more features, or simply a more reliable hosting provider, a smooth migration is crucial to ensure your site remains live and your data stays intact.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to migrate your WordPress site to a new host, ensuring no data is lost during the process. With the right preparation, migrating your site can be straightforward and hassle-free.

There are many reasons you might consider migrating your WordPress site to a new host, including:

• Improved Performance: A faster server can drastically improve your site’s speed and overall performance.
• Better Customer Support: Switching to a hosting provider that offers excellent customer service can help resolve issues more efficiently.
• Cost Efficiency: Some hosting providers offer better value for money, especially as your site grows.
• Additional Features: New hosting options might include increased storage, enhanced security, or better scalability.

The first step in any migration process is backing up your WordPress site. This step is crucial to avoid losing data in case something goes wrong.

You can back up your WordPress site manually by copying files and exporting your database, or you can use a WordPress backup plugin such as:

• UpdraftPlus
• BackWPup

All-in-One WP Migration

Take time to choose the right hosting provider. Make sure the new host supports WordPress and offers good uptime, robust security features, and fast loading speeds. Popular options include:

• SiteGround 
• Bluehost 
• Kinsta

Make a note of all the plugins and themes currently installed on your WordPress site. This will help you reinstall them on your new host, maintaining the same functionality and design.

Confirm that your new hosting environment supports the PHP version required by your WordPress site and its plugins. Most modern hosts offer the latest versions, but it’s always best to double-check.

Step 1: Export Your WordPress Database

1. Log in to your current host’s control panel (often cPanel). 
2. Open phpMyAdmin and select your WordPress database. 
3. Click Export, choose Quick and SQL as the method, then download the .sql file. 

Step 2: Download Your WordPress Files

Your themes, plugins, and media files need to be transferred as well.

• Using FTP: Connect with an FTP client (e.g., FileZilla) and download all WordPress root directory files. 
• Using cPanel: Compress your WordPress folder into a ZIP file and then download it. 

Step 3: Set Up Your New Hosting Account

Create a new hosting account with your chosen provider. Install a fresh WordPress instance using the host’s auto-install tool (if available).

Step 4: Upload WordPress Files to the New Host

Upload your WordPress files via FTP or File Manager to the new hosting account’s root directory. Make sure everything is in the correct location.

Step 5: Import the WordPress Database

1. Open phpMyAdmin on your new hosting account. 
2. Select the new database. 
3. Click Import, upload your .sql file, and click Go. 

Step 6: Update the wp-config.php File

Update your WordPress database details in the configuration file:

define( ‘DB_NAME’, ‘new_database_name’ );

define( ‘DB_USER’, ‘new_database_user’ );

define( ‘DB_PASSWORD’, ‘new_database_password’ );

define( ‘DB_HOST’, ‘localhost’ );

Step 7: Check Site URL and Permalinks

• In your WordPress dashboard, go to Settings > General and update the WordPress Address and Site Address. 
• Go to Settings > Permalinks and click Save Changes to refresh rewrite rules. 

Before updating your DNS:

• Check all pages, posts, images, and links. 
• Test forms, shopping baskets, and any interactive features. 
• Ensure plugins and themes are functioning correctly. 
• Use tools such as Google Search Console and Pingdom for errors and performance testing. 

Finally, update your DNS settings to point your domain to your new host. Log in to your domain registrar and update the A record or Nameservers to those provided by your hosting provider.

DNS changes may take up to 48 hours to propagate. During this time, your site may be temporarily unavailable, but once the changes are complete, your site will be live on the new host.

Migrating your WordPress site to a new host doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can ensure a smooth transition with minimal downtime and no data loss.

At KazeDigital, we understand the importance of a seamless migration, and our team of experts is here to help every step of the way.

Looking to migrate your WordPress site but not sure where to start? Let KazeDigital take care of it for you. We’ll make sure your migration is smooth, secure, and stress-free.

Get in touch with us today and let’s make your WordPress hosting transition a success!