{"id":617,"date":"2022-03-14T10:33:54","date_gmt":"2022-03-14T10:33:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.hostinger.io\/hostinger-tutorials\/uncategorized\/wordpresshow-to-migrate-wordpress\/"},"modified":"2026-10-06T20:03:51","modified_gmt":"2026-10-06T20:03:51","slug":"how-to-migrate-wordpress","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"\/my\/tutorials\/how-to-migrate-wordpress\/","title":{"rendered":"How to migrate a WordPress site"},"content":{"rendered":"

To migrate a WordPress site, follow one of three main options: use a hosting provider’s migration service, a migration plugin, or the manual method, which involves transferring your files and database directly.<\/p>

A hosting migration service is the easiest path. The provider’s team handles the transfer while your original site stays live, and most moves are completed within 48 hours.<\/p>

A migration plugin handles the file and database transfer through a step-by-step wizard. The free plugin versions work for most standard sites, with the import size limited by your hosting plan’s file upload settings.<\/p>

The manual method has the most steps but gives you full control over every part of the transfer.<\/p>

Regardless of method, every WordPress migration follows the same six steps:<\/p>

    \n
  1. Choose a migration method based on site size, technical comfort, and whether the domain changes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Back up your site and check the new host’s storage and software requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Transfer the files and database using your chosen method.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Test the site on its temporary address and refresh permalink settings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Point the domain to the new host.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Check for security certificate issues, broken redirects, and missing pages.<\/li>\n<\/ol>

    Which WordPress migration method should you use?<\/h2>

    The right migration method depends on your site size, technical experience, and whether your domain name changes in the process.<\/p>

    <\/td>Hosting migration service<\/strong><\/td>Migration plugin<\/strong><\/td>Manual migration<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
    Best for<\/strong><\/td>Anyone switching to a host that offers free migrations<\/td>Sites under the host’s upload limit<\/td>Large sites, domain changes, or full control<\/td><\/tr>
    Difficulty<\/strong><\/td>Easiest; no technical work needed<\/td>Moderate; guided by plugin wizard<\/td>Complex; requires database and file access<\/td><\/tr>
    Site size<\/strong><\/td>Any<\/td>Up to the hosting plan’s file upload limit<\/td>Any<\/td><\/tr>
    Cost<\/strong><\/td>Free when offered by the host<\/td>Free for most sites<\/td>Free<\/td><\/tr>
    Main limitation<\/strong><\/td>Not all hosts offer it; doesn’t cover WordPress Multisite<\/td>Import size capped by the hosting plan’s file upload limit<\/td>Requires basic database and file management skills<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

    A hosting migration service is the fastest option when your new provider offers one. Use a plugin for a self-service move on a standard-sized site; use the manual method when the site exceeds the plugin’s free import limit, or when you’re also changing domains.<\/p>

    How to prepare for a WordPress migration<\/h2>

    Before migrating, create a full website backup<\/a> that includes both files and the database, and store it outside your hosting account. Your computer or cloud storage service both work.<\/p>

    The backup is your restore point if anything goes wrong during the transfer. Then confirm the new host can take your site:<\/p>