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How do I copy and backup my WordPress site?

Nov 26 • 2 min read

Knowledge Base > Migration > How do I copy and backup my WordPress site?

Copying and backing up your WordPress site is a crucial aspect of website management, ensuring you can recover your data in case of issues or make a duplicate for testing or migration purposes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to copy and backup your WordPress site:

1. Using a WordPress Backup Plugin:

Install a Backup Plugin:

Configure the Plugin:

  • Follow the plugin’s setup wizard to configure your backup settings. Typically, you can choose to back up your site’s files, database, or both.

Schedule Regular Backups:

  • Set up a schedule for automatic backups. Daily or weekly backups ensure you always have a recent copy of your site.

Perform Manual Backups:

  • Most backup plugins allow you to create manual backups. Before making significant changes to your site, perform a manual backup for added security.

Store Backups Offsite:

  • Save backups to an offsite location, such as cloud storage or your computer. This provides an extra layer of protection in case your server experiences issues.

2. Copying Your WordPress Site:

Use a Migration Plugin:

Export Your Site:

  • With the migration plugin activated, navigate to its settings and export your site. This generates a file containing all your site’s content, themes, plugins, and configurations.

Download or Store the Exported File:

  • Once the export is complete, download the file to your computer or save it to your preferred cloud storage.

Install WordPress on the Target Server:

  • Set up a new WordPress installation on the server where you want to copy your site. Ensure you have a fresh database for the new site.

Import Your Site:

  • Upload the exported file to the new server using the migration plugin. Follow the plugin’s instructions to import your site. This process will recreate your entire site on the new server.

Update Permalinks and Site URL:

  • After importing, log in to the new site’s WordPress admin panel and update the permalinks. Additionally, ensure the site URL is correct in the settings to avoid broken links.

3. Manual Backup and Copy:

Access Your Server via FTP:

  • Use an FTP client to connect to your server. Navigate to the root directory of your WordPress installation.

Copy Files:

  • Copy all the files in your WordPress directory to your computer. This includes the wp-content folder, which contains themes, plugins, and uploads.

Export Database:

  • Use phpMyAdmin or a similar tool provided by your hosting provider to export your WordPress database. Save the exported SQL file to your computer.

Transfer Files to New Server:

  • Upload the copied files to the root directory of your new server. Import the database to the new server using phpMyAdmin.

Update wp-config.php:

  • In the new server, update the wp-config.php file with the new database details.

Update Permalinks and Site URL:

  • Log in to the new site’s WordPress admin panel and update the permalinks. Ensure the site URL is correct.

By following these steps, you can easily copy and backup your WordPress site, whether for testing, migration, or general data security. Regular backups and careful copying ensure you can restore or replicate your site whenever needed.

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Common Questions

  • Why should I back up my WordPress site?

    Regular backups are essential for protecting your website against data loss, server issues, or security breaches. They serve as a safety net, allowing you to restore your site quickly in case of unforeseen circumstances.

  • How often should I back up my WordPress site?

    For most websites, a weekly backup is a good starting point. However, if your site undergoes frequent changes or updates, consider a daily backup schedule. The key is to strike a balance between data protection and storage resources.

  • Can I manually copy my WordPress site without using a plugin?

    Yes, you can manually copy your WordPress site using FTP for files and phpMyAdmin for the database. This method involves more steps and technical know-how, so it’s often recommended for users with some experience in managing server files.

  • What should be included in a comprehensive backup?

    A complete backup includes your WordPress database, themes, plugins, media uploads, and the wp-config.php file. Some backup plugins offer options to include or exclude specific elements based on your preferences.

  • Are there free tools for migrating WordPress sites?

    Yes, plugins like All-in-One WP Migration and Duplicator offer free versions that allow you to migrate your WordPress site. These tools simplify the process of copying and moving your site to a new server.

  • How can I ensure a smooth migration when copying my WordPress site?

    To ensure a smooth migration, update your permalinks and site URL after copying. Additionally, check for any hardcoded links in your content or theme files that might need updating. Test the new site thoroughly to catch and address any issues early on.

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