How to Migrate a WordPress Site to a New Host (Step by Step)

This guide covers “migrate a wordpress site” in plain language. Moving your WordPress site to a new host can feel risky, but done carefully it causes little or no downtime. This guide covers the plugin method and the manual method, plus a checklist for switching over safely.

Before you start

1. Choose and set up the new host. Create an account and, if possible, an empty WordPress install or a blank site.
2. Back up everything. See how to back up WordPress.
3. Note your current settings: PHP version, DNS records and email setup.
4. Lower your DNS TTL a day ahead, if you can, so changes spread faster.

Method 1: Use a migration plugin or your host’s migration tool

Many hosts offer free migration or a one-click importer. Migration plugins such as Duplicator or All-in-One WP Migration package your site and restore it on the new server.

1. Install the plugin on the old site and create a package or export.
2. Download the package and installer file.
3. On the new host, upload them and run the installer or import.
4. Enter the new database details when prompted.

Method 2: Manual migration

1. Copy files. Download your site files via FTP and upload them to the new server.
2. Export the database with phpMyAdmin.
3. Create a new database and user on the new host and import the file.
4. Edit wp-config.php with the new database name, user and password.
5. Update URLs if the domain changes, using a search-replace tool that handles serialized data safely.

Test before switching

Preview the new site without changing DNS by editing your computer’s hosts file to point your domain at the new server’s IP, or use the host’s temporary URL. Check:

• Home page and key pages
• Permalinks. Save the permalink settings again if you see 404s. See WordPress permalinks.
• Forms and checkout
• Images and media
• Logins

Switch DNS

1. Point your domain’s nameservers or A record to the new host.
2. Wait for propagation, which can take minutes to hours.
3. Keep the old host active for a few days.

After the move

• Reissue or confirm your SSL certificate.
• Re-check email delivery.
• Set up backups on the new host.
• Watch Search Console for errors.
• Cancel the old host once everything is stable.

Migrate a WordPress site FAQ

Will migration hurt SEO?

Not if URLs stay the same and downtime is minimal.

How long does it take?

A small site can move in under an hour; larger ones take longer.

Related reading

• beginner guide to creating a WordPress website
• website guides by industry
• official WordPress documentation