You need to be familiar with web development in general, and using Database UIs, php files and other webhosting stuff in order to make sense of this little manual. Therefore it is more of a checklist than a full blown how-to.
Useful steps to migrate an existing WordPress installation to a new host.
- Create new password file for yourself. You’ll be creating and setting a lot of passwords.
- Old host – create a full database backup
- New host – Create database and import the backup from old site
- New host – Create a new home folder for the new WP installation
- New host – Create a new temporary subdomain
- Set up subdomain redirection (to internal home folder see point 3)
- Old host – download the entire WordPress installation (.php and .html files)
- New host – edit file wp-config.php
- New host – edit Database entries in table wp-options (site and site URL)
- New host – Upload WordPress files, including the altered wp-config.php
- Site should now be visible
- Under the temporary URL set under point 5
- try to log in – your old access credentials should be working
- Pointing new site to the final URL
- Old host – Ask for DNS settings
- Ask new host: Which DNS settings do I have to enter so that the domain points to the new host?
- New host: CAVE – Email hosting remains the same. Ask!
- Set DNS settings
- Wait
- WordPress site live on new host
Disclaimer
The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of these instructions. The information contained in this paper is provided on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.