Move A Wordpress Website from Local to Live

Moving your WordPress website from local development to a live server can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! This comprehensive set of screencasts guides you through the entire process, taking just 30 minutes to get your site online.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how to move a local WordPress site live:

• Domain Name & Hosting:

  • Search for the perfect domain name: We'll show you how to use domain suggest tools to find the ideal name for your website.
  • Purchase your domain: We recommend reliable registrars like GoDaddy or Namecheap.
  • Set up hosting: Choose a hosting provider – whether you're creating a new account or adding a domain to an existing one.

• Connecting Domain & Hosting:

  • Update Nameservers: Copy the nameserver details from your hosting account and update them in your domain registrar settings. Allow up to 10 minutes, but sometimes up to 2 days, for propagation.

• Transferring Website Files:

  • Zip Your Files: Create a zip file of all your local WordPress website files.
  • Upload to cPanel: Use the cPanel file manager to upload the zipped files to your server. Remember to expand the directory after uploading.

• Database Migration:

  • Export the Database: Utilize phpMyAdmin to export your local WordPress database.
  • Edit the SQL File: Open the exported SQL file with Notepad++ (or a similar editor on Mac). Crucially, find and replace all instances of "http://localhost" with "http://www.yourwebsite.com" (replace with your actual domain).
  • Create Database & User: In your hosting cPanel, create a new MySQL database and a user with full privileges to that database. Add the user to the database.

• Configure WordPress:

  • Edit wp-config.php: Using Notepad++ (or a similar editor), edit your wp-config.php file. Update the database name, username, and password to match the new database credentials.

• Final Touches & Submission:

  • Install a Sitemap Plugin: Add a sitemap plugin to your WordPress site.
  • Submit to Google: Register for Google Search Console (formerly Google Webmaster Tools) and submit your sitemap to help Google index your new website.
  • Test Thoroughly: Double-check every page on your site to ensure everything is working correctly.
  • Celebrate! You've successfully moved your WordPress website live.

This tutorial provides a clear, concise, and actionable guide to taking your WordPress site from local development to a live, accessible website. Get your project online quickly and efficiently!