Hosting Harbor
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How to move WordPress to a new host

A WordPress migration needs both site files and the database. Test URLs, media, forms, HTTPS, and DNS before cancelling the old account.

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Back up WordPress

Save the WordPress files and database before the migration. Keep a copy somewhere separate from both hosting accounts.

Move the files and database

Transfer the WordPress files, import the database, and update configuration if the database credentials or site environment have changed.

Test before closing the old account

Check pages, media, forms, login, HTTPS, and redirects. Update DNS only when the new copy is ready, then keep the old account available until the move is fully verified.

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