The Ultimate Guide to Change WordPress Domain Published: 08 Dec, 2024
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your WordPress Domain
Looking to update your WordPress domain name? Whether you are rebranding, merging websites, or simply want a fresh start, changing your domain can feel overwhelming. With proper steps and careful planning, you can successfully transition your domain without interruptions or issues for your visitors.
This guide will outline all the necessary steps to change your WordPress domain seamlessly. From creating backups to updating links and DNS settings, these methods will help ensure a smooth switch without impacting your website's performance.
Here are the essential steps to change your WordPress domain name:
Step 1: Backup Your Website
Before making changes, take a complete backup of your website’s files and database. This ensures you have a fallback option in case anything goes wrong. Use reliable tools like UpDraft or All-in-One WP Migration to automate backups. Alternatively, use FTP or cPanel for manual backups.
Step 2: Update WordPress and Site Address
Log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Settings > General. Replace the current domain in both "WordPress Address (URL)" and "Site Address (URL)" fields with your new domain. Ensure the new domain is already pointing to your hosting server to prevent errors or downtime.
Step 3: Update Permalinks
After changing your domain, go to Settings > Permalinks and save the current permalink structure to refresh the URLs. Use the "Better Search Replace" plugin to replace old internal links in posts, pages, and media content.
Step 4: Update DNS Settings
Log in to your domain registrar and update your DNS settings. Point the A record or CNAME record to your hosting server’s IP address. DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate. Verify your settings using a DNS Lookup tool.
Step 5: Update Internal Links
Ensure that all internal links on your site point to the new domain. Use the "Better Search Replace" plugin or manually update links in your website's navigation, content, and widgets to avoid broken URLs.
Step 6: Update External Links
Identify backlinks and external links pointing to your old domain. Contact website owners to update them or set up 301 redirects to avoid losing valuable traffic and SEO authority.
Step 7: Implement 301 Redirects
Use 301 redirects to automatically send traffic from your old domain to the new one. This preserves backlinks, maintains SEO, and ensures visitors are redirected smoothly. Learn more about 301 redirects in this guide.
Step 8: Update SEO and Webmaster Tools
Submit your updated sitemap to search engines like Google and Bing. Update your domain in webmaster tools (Google Search Console) to ensure search engines index the new domain correctly.
Step 9: Monitor Your Website
Check your site for errors, broken links, or 404 pages after the domain change. Use website auditing tools to fix issues promptly and monitor traffic performance.
Step 10: Update Social Media and Online Accounts
Update your website link across social media platforms, business directories, and online profiles. Notify your subscribers and customers about the domain change to maintain consistent branding.
Changing your WordPress domain may seem challenging, but following these steps can make the process smooth and hassle-free. Backups, redirects, and updating links are key to avoiding downtime and maintaining your SEO rankings.
Also Check: How to Get a Professional Email Address with Your Domain Name