Understanding the Duplicator Plugin
The Duplicator plugin offers WordPress users an effective solution for migrating websites from one server to another, backing up data, or cloning a site. It manages the WordPress migration process by creating a package that includes the database, WordPress files, plugins, and themes.
Preparing for Migration
Step 1: Installing the Duplicator Plugin
- Navigate to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to ‘Plugins’ > ‘Add New’ and search for “Duplicator.”
- Install and activate the plugin.
Step 2: Create a New Package
- Click on the Duplicator menu item in your WordPress dashboard.
- Select ‘Packages’ and then the ‘Create New’ button.
- Enter a name for your package and press ‘Next’. Duplicator will scan your website; ensure the scan results check out before proceeding.
Step 3: Build Package
- Review the scan details. If any issues are flagged, address them before continuing.
- Hit the ‘Build’ button to create your package.
- Upon completion, you’ll receive two files: an installer PHP file and an archive ZIP file.
Transferring Files to the New Host
Step 1: Download the Installer and Archive Files
- Download both the installer.php file and the archive.zip file to your computer.
Step 2: Upload Files to Your New Host
- Connect to your new hosting environment using an FTP client like FileZilla.
- Upload both the installer.php file and the archive.zip file to the root directory of your website on the new host.
Creating a Database on the New Host
Step 1: Access cPanel
- Log into the cPanel on your new hosting account.
Step 2: Open MySQL Database Wizard
- Navigate to the “Databases” section and click on “MySQL Database Wizard.”
- Create a new database, a new user, and ensure that the user has full privileges on the database.
- Note down the database name, username, and password.
Running the Duplicator Migration Wizard
Step 1: Launch Installer
- Open a browser and go to http://yournewdomain.com/installer.php (replace yournewdomain.com with your actual domain name).
- The Duplicator installation wizard will open.
Step 2: Enter Database Details
- Fill in the fields with the database name, username, and password you created earlier.
- Click ‘Test Database’ to ensure there are no connection issues.
- After a successful test, click ‘Next’ to extract the archive.
Step 3: Update Data
- Duplicator will prompt you to update your old site URL to the new site URL.
- Check and confirm the settings.
Step 4: Run Update
- Click ‘Run Update’ to finalize the migration process.
- The installer will replace all instances of the old site’s domain name with the new one.
Step 5: Perform a Site Test
- After Duplicator runs its final steps, test the new site thoroughly to ensure everything operates as expected.
- Check that all pages load, and no links point back to the old domain.
Finalizing the Migration
Step 1: Save Permalinks
- Go to the WordPress Dashboard on your new site.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Permalinks’ and simply click ‘Save Changes’ without altering anything. This action resets the permalink structure.
Step 2: Clear Cache
- If you are using a caching plugin, clear all caches now.
- It’s also wise to clear your browser cache.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Migration
- Backup: Always make sure to keep a backup of your original site before starting the migration process.
- Maintenance Mode: Consider putting your site into maintenance mode during migration to avoid displaying a broken site to visitors.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure all plugins and themes are compatible with the server environment at your new host.
Making Use of Duplicator for Site Backup
Besides migration, Duplicator serves as an excellent backup solution. Regularly schedule package creation to ensure you always have a recent backup, which can serve as a reliable recovery point.
By following these detailed instructions, migrating a WordPress site with the Duplicator plugin can be straightforward, safe, and effective, ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining site integrity throughout the process.
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