Migrating a WordPress site can be an essential task when moving to a new host, transferring to a different domain, or even shifting to a more scalable platform. One of the most reliable methods for doing so is WordPress manual migration. Unlike automated tools, manual migration gives you full control over the process, ensuring that all aspects of your site are moved properly. In this guide, we will explore what WordPress manual migration is, the different types of migrations, the steps involved, and address common questions to ensure a smooth transition for your website.
What is WordPress Manual Migration?
WordPress manual migration refers to the process of manually transferring a WordPress site from one hosting environment to another or from one domain to another. This involves moving files, databases, and configurations while ensuring that all aspects of the website function properly after the migration. It requires a hands-on approach but offers complete control over the migration process, helping to avoid issues like missing files, broken links, or database connection errors.
While automated migration plugins make it easy for users to migrate their sites, manual migration provides an additional layer of control and troubleshooting capabilities. It’s especially useful for developers or advanced users who want to customize the process or ensure optimal security during the migration.
Types of WordPress Manual Migration
There are a few different scenarios where WordPress manual migration can be used. Let’s look at the most common types:
1. Server-to-Server Migration
Server-to-server migration occurs when you are moving your WordPress site from one hosting provider to another. This is a typical migration scenario when switching hosts for better performance, security, or customer service.
- How it works:
- Backup your WordPress files and database from the old server.
- Transfer the files to the new server using FTP.
- Import the database into the new server.
- Update the site’s configuration file (wp-config.php) to reflect the new database credentials.
- Test the site on the new server.
- Benefits:
- Ideal for users looking to move to a new hosting environment.
- Gives you complete control over how files and databases are handled.
- More secure than relying on automated tools.
2. Domain-to-Domain Migration
This type of migration is necessary when changing your domain name. It requires careful handling of URLs, search engine optimization (SEO), and redirection to ensure that your site’s traffic isn’t lost, and SEO rankings are preserved.
- How it works:
- Backup your WordPress files and database from the old domain.
- Move all files to the new domain using FTP or cPanel.
- Update the site’s database to replace old URLs with the new ones.
- Modify the site’s
wp-config.phpto reflect the new domain. - Implement 301 redirects from the old domain to the new one to maintain SEO rankings.
- Benefits:
- Ensures that your site’s SEO value is preserved.
- Prevents broken links and redirect issues.
- Gives you full control over URL replacement in the database.
3. Local-to-Server Migration
Local-to-server migration is common when you’ve been developing a WordPress site locally (on your computer) and need to transfer it to a live server.
- How it works:
- Backup your local WordPress files and database.
- Upload the files to your hosting server using FTP.
- Import the local database into the server’s MySQL database.
- Update the site’s URL and paths in the database.
- Test the live site on the server to ensure everything is working as expected.
- Benefits:
- Ideal for developers who want to work offline before making the site live.
- Offers a smoother process compared to automated migration tools.
- Gives developers full control over the configuration and setup.
4. Manual Migration for Cloning or Backup
Sometimes, WordPress manual migration is used for cloning or creating backups of your site. This is helpful when you want to test changes or create a backup copy for disaster recovery.
- How it works:
- Backup both WordPress files and database.
- Copy files to a new location or server.
- Import the database and configure it as needed.
- Test the backup to ensure it’s a fully functional clone.
- Benefits:
- Provides peace of mind knowing that you have a fully functional backup.
- Enables you to clone sites for testing or development purposes.
- Gives you more control over how the backup and cloning process are handled.
Steps for Performing WordPress Manual Migration
While the exact process may vary based on the type of migration you’re performing, the following are the general steps involved in a WordPress manual migration:
Step 1: Backup Your WordPress Files
Start by creating a complete backup of your WordPress site, including all files (themes, plugins, media) and the database. You can do this using FTP or cPanel file manager to download the entire WordPress directory. Make sure to also export the database using phpMyAdmin.
Step 2: Transfer Files to the New Server or Domain
- Use an FTP client (like FileZilla) to upload your WordPress files to the new server.
- Ensure you place the files in the correct directory (typically the
public_htmlfolder or root directory).
Step 3: Create a New Database on the New Server
- Log in to your new server’s cPanel and create a new MySQL database.
- Create a new user for the database and assign the appropriate permissions.
- Import your database backup into the new database using phpMyAdmin.
Step 4: Update the wp-config.php File
In the wp-config.php file, update the database name, username, and password to match the new database credentials on the new server.
Step 5: Update URLs in the Database
Using a tool like phpMyAdmin, search and replace the old domain or local URL with the new domain or live URL. This step is crucial to ensure your links and images work correctly on the new domain.
Step 6: Test Your Site
Once the migration is complete, check the site thoroughly to ensure everything works correctly:
- Test the homepage, pages, posts, and media.
- Ensure that all links are functioning and not broken.
- Test contact forms, payment gateways, or other interactive elements.
Step 7: Update DNS Settings (if applicable)
If you’re changing the domain name or moving to a new hosting provider, you’ll need to update the DNS settings to point to the new server. This typically involves modifying your domain’s DNS records or changing nameservers to reflect the new hosting provider.
FAQs About WordPress Manual Migration
1. Why should I use manual migration instead of an automated plugin?
Manual migration gives you full control over the process, which is crucial for complex sites or when you need to customize the migration. It also minimizes the risk of issues that can occur with automated tools, such as missing files or incorrect database configurations.
2. How long does WordPress manual migration take?
The duration of the migration depends on the size of your site and your familiarity with the process. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Sites with large databases or numerous files may take longer.
3. What happens if the database is not correctly migrated?
If the database is not migrated correctly, your site may show errors, missing content, or broken functionality. It’s important to double-check the database import and ensure that all URLs and file paths are updated.
4. Can I migrate a WordPress site from localhost to a live server manually?
Yes, migrating a site from localhost to a live server manually is a common process. Simply back up your local site, upload the files to the live server, import the database, and update the site’s URLs to match the live domain.
5. How can I ensure SEO rankings are maintained during migration?
To ensure that SEO rankings are preserved, implement 301 redirects from the old URLs to the new ones. This tells search engines that the content has permanently moved, preserving SEO value.
6. Do I need to update plugins and themes after migration?
It’s a good idea to review your plugins and themes after migration to ensure compatibility with the new server or domain. Check if there are any updates available for your plugins, as some may have issues when moved to a different environment.
Conclusion
WordPress manual migration offers a hands-on approach that gives you full control over transferring your site to a new host, domain, or server. While it may take more time than automated tools, it ensures the integrity and customization of the migration process, helping you avoid potential issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully complete a manual migration and maintain a secure, fully functional site on its new home.
With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can execute a smooth WordPress manual migration that supports both the technical and SEO aspects of your site, ensuring it continues to run efficiently post-migration.
