3 Steps To A Successful Manual WordPress Site Migration

In today’s digital world, having a business website has now become a non-negotiable. It’s become the go-to virtual storefront, where your prospective customers can learn everything there is to know about your company. Unfortunately, running a business website entails more than just content creation—you also need to invest in the technical factors.

Moving a website into a new host server, for instance, can be both stressful and frustrating. Most businesses eventually need to move to a new host due to specific problems, but the process itself can be rather challenging. Migration can be delayed, and mistakes often surface, leading to downtimes and damaged websites. 

Your WordPress website will eventually need an upgrade soon, thereby prompting you to take careful steps for migration. Thankfully, the process does not have to be daunting, so don’t let the fear of mistakes inhibit your plans for growth. 

The process of migrating your WordPress website can be very straightforward, so long as you follow the approach correctly. Any problems that may occur can also be reversed without any hassle. 

To ensure a smooth process, here is a step-by-step guide for you:

Step 1: Back up all your website files

The first and often-overlooked step to do before transferring your files to your WordPress site is to back up your website files. Backing up your files is an important step to prevent your hard work from disappearing or malfunctioning unexpectedly. This is especially important when you’re moving to a new host and making major overhauls.

This process can be automated through tools such as plug-ins, which have features that allow you to back selected files up at a designated destination and frequency. When you’ve successfully backed up your files, you can now proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Begin exporting your WordPress website database

Exporting your WordPress database requires you to access the phpMyAdmin application after logging into your cPanel account. Once you’ve opened the application, look at the sidebar on the left and select your WordPress database. After this, look for the Export option on the navigation menu. To export your database, click on Go, and your computer will automatically download the file after the export process.

Step 3: Begin the migration process 

Moving into your new host will require you to create a new database, which will then allow you to import all your important SQL data. To do so, you must log in to your new host account. Upon successful login, begin connecting to the cPanel software. 

The platform will allow you to keep track of the entire process, as it essentially acts as a control panel. Should your new host provider lack the software, don’t hesitate to contact customer support. They’ll help you figure out how to create new databases catered to their systems, so that your website can successfully be rehomed into a better host. 

Making the Complicated Easier to Digest 

As shown from the steps above, migrating onto a new hosting platform doesn’t have to be difficult. Your WordPress website need not suffer from irreversible damages—so long as you follow each step carefully, migration can be easy to perform. The key is to take your time and double-check your work. Make sure to keep your options available—should anything untoward happen, for instance, you’ll be able to bring back the original website version. The technical side of the business may be daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, you’ll reach success.

If you require the services of web hosting professionals, however, I/O Zoom is ready to help. We are a privately owned company based in the USA, home to professionals catering to hosting solutions. We have over 8 data centers all over the world, ensuring that our clients have access to the best hosting services at affordable prices. We offer your fast servers, unparalleled uptime, and of course, excellent customer service. Amplify your business potential today—reach out to us to learn more.