How to Move Your WordPress Site to a New Domain: A Step-by-Step Guide

Moving a WordPress site to a new domain name is possible but requires careful steps to avoid losing content, traffic, and search rankings. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process.

Introduction

Switching your WordPress site to a new domain can seem daunting, but with the right steps, you can ensure a smooth transition without compromising your SEO efforts. Whether you are changing your web host or sticking with the same provider, this guide will help you through the process.

Step 1: Download a Website Backup

Backing up your website files is a crucial first step to ensure no data is lost during the transfer. There are three main methods to back up your WordPress site: manually using a File Manager or FTP client, your hosting provider’s backup feature, or a backup plugin. For users of Hostinger, the built-in backup feature is located in the Files section of the hPanel dashboard.

Step 2: Export Database

Once you have backed up your WordPress site files, the next step is to export your MySQL database using phpMyAdmin. This tool is available under the Databases section of the hPanel for Hostinger users. Be sure to export your database in SQL format for compatibility with most hosting providers.

Step 3: Upload Files to the New Domain

Navigate to the admin dashboard of your new hosting provider and upload the website files to the server. You can transfer files to the new root directory using a File Manager or FTP client. For those moving to Hostinger, the File Manager is accessible under the Files section of the hPanel. If you prefer not to handle this manually, consider using Hostinger‘s migration team for assistance.

Step 4: Import Database

First, create a new MySQL database to host the data from the old domain. For Hostinger users, this can be done in the Databases -> MySQL Databases section of the hPanel dashboard. After setting up the database, import the exported database file using phpMyAdmin, ensuring the format is set to SQL.

Step 5: Update the URL in the Database

After importing the database, the next step is to update the website’s URL in the new database. Open your new database in phpMyAdmin, locate the wp-options table, and edit the siteurl and home options by replacing the old URL with the new one.

Step 6: Update Details in wp-config.php

The wp-config.php file is crucial for connecting WordPress to your database. Update this file with the new database details. Locate the file in your root directory and replace the values of DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD, and DB_HOST with your new information. Additionally, update WP_HOME and WP_SITEURL to reflect your new domain.

Step 7: Fix Broken Links

Broken links can hurt your SEO and user experience. Use tools like Semrush, Google Search Console, or WordPress plugins such as Broken Link Checker to locate and fix any broken links on your site. If plugins don’t resolve the issue, consider resetting WordPress permalinks or updating your .htaccess file.

Step 8: Set up 301 Redirects From the Old Site

Setting up 301 redirects ensures that visitors to your old domain are automatically redirected to the new one, preserving SEO value and user experience. Hostinger users can use the Redirects feature in hPanel, or you can use WordPress SEO plugins like Yoast SEO and All in One SEO to create 301 redirects.

Step 9: Update Your Google Search Console

Notify Google about your domain name change using the Change of Address tool in Google Search Console. This step helps ensure your new domain is indexed and ranked properly. Note that the verification process may take some time.

Consider Hostinger for Your Hosting Needs

If you’re considering a new hosting provider, Hostinger offers competitive packages that include free domain registration and a user-friendly migration process.

Conclusion

Moving your WordPress site to a new domain can be a smooth process with the right steps. By following this guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your site maintains its SEO performance. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

How to Move My WordPress to a New Domain FAQs

How Does Changing My Domain Affect SEO?

Changing your domain can cause temporary drops in rankings and traffic. Properly implementing redirects and updating URLs can help mitigate these effects.

Can I Move My WordPress Site to a New Domain for Free?

Yes, you can move your site for free, though you may need to pay for domain registration and hosting. Many free plugins can assist with the migration process.

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Jordana Alexandrea Jordana is a Senior Content Writer at Hostinger with a background in Information Systems. She has over five years of experience in WordPress and is casually dabbling with PHP and MySQL. Her passion for writing and technology drives her to create tutorials for anyone wanting to build their online presence. Follow her on LinkedIn.

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