Migrate WordPress Website from Localhost to Live Server : Building a WordPress website on a localhost environment is a common practice for developers and beginners. It allows you to work on your website offline, make changes, and test functionality without impacting a live audience. Once your website is ready, the next step is to migrate it to a live server so it can go public.
Migrating a website may seem daunting, but with the right steps, it’s a straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll show you how to migrate your WordPress website from localhost to a live server effortlessly.
Why Migrate from Localhost to a Live Server?
Developing your website locally offers advantages such as faster development and no hosting costs. However, to make your site accessible to the world, it must be hosted on a live server. Migration ensures your content, design, and settings transfer seamlessly from your local environment to a web hosting platform.
Step-by-Step Guide to Migrate a Website from Localhost to Live Server
1. Prepare Your Localhost Website
Before starting the migration, ensure your localhost website is complete and working as intended.
- Test all functionalities, including forms, navigation, and plugins.
- Back up your local WordPress site files and database.
2. Choose a Reliable Web Host
Select a hosting provider that meets your website’s needs in terms of speed, storage, and security. Popular options include Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator.
3. Install a Migration Plugin
To simplify the process, use a WordPress migration plugin. Recommended plugins include:
- All-in-One WP Migration
- Duplicator
- UpdraftPlus
4. Export Your Localhost Website Files
- Using a Plugin:
- Install the migration plugin on your localhost WordPress dashboard.
- Use the plugin to create a backup or export package.
- Save the exported file to your computer.
- Manually Exporting Files:
- Locate your WordPress files in the localhost directory (e.g.,
htdocsin XAMPP). - Compress the files into a
.ziparchive.
- Locate your WordPress files in the localhost directory (e.g.,
5. Export Your Local Database
- Open phpMyAdmin on your localhost.
- Select your website’s database from the left sidebar.
- Click the Export tab and choose the Quick Export option.
- Save the
.sqlfile to your computer.
6. Upload Your Website Files to the Live Server
- Log in to your hosting account’s control panel.
- Open the File Manager or use an FTP client like FileZilla to upload files.
- Transfer the
.zipfile (from Step 4) to your server’s root directory (e.g.,public_html). - Extract the files.
7. Import Your Database to the Live Server
- Access the hosting control panel’s phpMyAdmin.
- Create a new database and note the database name, username, and password.
- Go to the Import tab and upload the
.sqlfile from Step 5.
8. Update the wp-config.php File
- Edit the
wp-config.phpfile in your website’s root directory. - Update the database name, username, and password to match your live server credentials.
9. Update URLs in the Database
- Use a plugin like Better Search Replace to replace localhost URLs with your live domain name.
- Example: Replace
http://localhost/yourwebsitewithhttps://yourdomain.com.
10. Test Your Live Website
- Open your live website in a browser to check if everything works correctly.
- Test navigation, forms, and functionality.
11. Final Tweaks and SEO Setup
- Update your WordPress permalinks by visiting Settings > Permalinks and clicking Save Changes.
- Install an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO or Rank Math to optimize your site.
Common Issues During Migration and How to Fix Them
Issue 1: Internal Server Errors
- Solution: Ensure all files are uploaded correctly and update file permissions.
Issue 2: Broken Links or Missing Images
- Solution: Use a search-and-replace tool to correct URLs in the database.
Issue 3: Database Connection Error
- Solution: Double-check the database credentials in the
wp-config.phpfile.
Benefits of Migrating to a Live Server
- Global Accessibility: Your website becomes available to users worldwide.
- Professional Presence: Hosting your site on a domain adds credibility.
- Search Engine Visibility: Search engines can index and rank your site.
Conclusion
Migrating your WordPress website from localhost to a live server might seem complex, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can make the process smooth and hassle-free. Using tools like migration plugins and ensuring proper database configuration are key to a successful migration.
Once your website is live, take advantage of its global reach to grow your audience and achieve your goals. Remember, a well-migrated website not only ensures a seamless user experience but also sets the foundation for online success.
