How to Migrate a WordPress Site Safely
A WordPress migration is a controlled copy-and-switch process. The safest workflow separates copying the application from directing live traffic to it.
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1. Back up independently
Create a fresh backup you control before anyone changes the source site.
2. Copy the application
Move WordPress files, database content, and any relevant email or DNS configuration required by the project.
3. Test the copy
Check forms, logins, search, redirects, images, SSL, scheduled tasks, checkout, transactional email, and any custom integrations before changing DNS.
4. Switch DNS
Point the domain only after the new copy is working. Expect some propagation variance and monitor both environments during the transition.
5. Verify after cutover
Check analytics, Search Console, robots directives, canonicals, cache behavior, backups, email, and application logs.