{"id":2540,"date":"2025-03-27T18:13:29","date_gmt":"2025-03-27T22:13:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/blogue\/uncategorized\/how-to-migrate-a-wordpress-site-step-by-step\/"},"modified":"2025-03-27T18:23:54","modified_gmt":"2025-03-27T22:23:54","slug":"how-to-migrate-a-wordpress-site-step-by-step","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/en\/blogue\/web-design-en\/how-to-migrate-a-wordpress-site-step-by-step\/","title":{"rendered":"How to migrate a WordPress site step by step?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Migrating a WordPress site can seem daunting, especially if you&#8217;re doing it for the first time.<br>Fortunately, there are now simple and effective methods for transferring your site from one host to another, moving from a local environment to an online server, or changing your domain name &#8211; without losing data, without breaking the design, and <strong>without interrupting service<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, we&#8217;ll take you <strong>step-by-step<\/strong> through the process, with clear, up-to-date explanations.<br>You&#8217;ll discover <strong>two tried-and-tested methods<\/strong>: manual migration for the more technically inclined, and plugin migration for faster, more secure migration. We&#8217;ll also show you <strong>how to automate outsourced backups<\/strong> to avoid unpleasant surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re a freelancer, developer or site owner, you&#8217;ll leave with a concrete method for <strong>migrating your WordPress site with peace of mind<\/strong>, even in the event of a breakdown or change of host.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of contents :<\/h2><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#pourquoi-migrer-un-site-word-press\">Why migrate a WordPress site?<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#changer-dhebergeur\">Change host<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#passer-du-local-a-la-production\">From local to production<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#modifier-le-nom-de-domaine\">Change domain name<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#ce-quil-faut-preparer-avant-la-migration\">What to prepare before migration<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#sauvegarder-votre-site-word-press\">Backup your WordPress site<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#verifier-les-prerequis-techniques\">Check technical prerequisites<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#choisir-la-methode-de-migration-adaptee\">Choosing the right migration method<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#methode-1-migrer-manuellement-un-site-word-press\">Method 1 &#8211; Manually migrate a WordPress site<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#exporter-les-fichiers-et-la-base-de-donnees\">Export files and database<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#creer-la-base-de-donnees-sur-le-nouvel-hebergeur\">Create the database on the new host<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#modifier-le-fichier-wp-config-php\">Modify the wp-config.php file<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#importer-la-base-de-donnees-via-php-my-admin\">Import database via phpMyAdmin<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#mettre-a-jour-les-url-avec-un-script-comme-search-replace-db-ou-better-search-and-replace\">Update URLs with a script like Search Replace DB or Better Search and replace<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#methode-2-utiliser-une-extension-de-migration-word-press\">Method 2 &#8211; Use a WordPress migration extension<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#les-plugins-de-migration-les-plus-populaires\">The most popular migration plugins<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#etapes-generales-dune-migration-avec-un-plugin\">General steps in a plugin migration<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#pourquoi-opter-pour-une-sauvegarde-planifiee-et-externalisee\">Why opt for scheduled, outsourced backup?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#avantages-et-limites-de-cette-methode\">Advantages and limitations of this method<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#verifications-apres-la-migration\">Post-migration checks<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#tester-le-bon-fonctionnement-du-site\">Test site operation<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#mettre-a-jour-les-permaliens-et-les-redirections\">Update permalinks and redirects<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#ajouter-votre-site-a-google-search-console\">Add your site to Google Search Console<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#problemes-frequents-et-solutions\">Common problems and solutions<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#erreurs-de-base-de-donnees\">Database errors<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#liens-casses-et-images-manquantes\">Broken links and missing images<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#boucle-de-redirection-ou-page-blanche\">Redirect loop or white page<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#foire-aux-questions-faq\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#faq-question-1743111627657\">Does migrating a WordPress site mean losing SEO?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#faq-question-1743111641087\">Can I migrate a WordPress site without using FTP or phpMyAdmin?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#faq-question-1743111663334\">What if my site is too heavy to be migrated with a free plugin?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#faq-question-1743111690382\">Should I deactivate plugins before migrating?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#faq-question-1743111702704\">How long does a WordPress migration take?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#quelle-methode-de-migration-choisir\">Which migration method should I choose?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pourquoi-migrer-un-site-word-press\">Why migrate a WordPress site?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many legitimate reasons why you may need to <strong>migrate your WordPress site<\/strong>. Whether for technical, strategic or organizational reasons, understanding the context of your migration will help you choose the most appropriate method. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"changer-dhebergeur\">Change host<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you no longer satisfied with your current hosting provider?<br>Long loading times, lack of customer support, high prices, technical limitations&#8230; These are all common reasons for wanting to <strong>change your hosting provider<\/strong>.<br>Migration allows you to transfer your entire site to a new host <strong>without having to start from scratch<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"passer-du-local-a-la-production\">From local to production<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many developers create their site in a <strong>local environment<\/strong> (on their own computer) before putting it online.<br>Migration enables <strong>the site to be transferred from the local environment to a<\/strong> production <strong>server<\/strong> while preserving settings, themes, extensions and content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"modifier-le-nom-de-domaine\">Change domain name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you changing your identity or brand or looking for a more appropriate domain name?<br>Migration lets you <strong>keep your entire site the same<\/strong>, changing only the address.<br>You&#8217;ll need to adjust the <strong>internal URLs<\/strong> and set up <strong>redirects<\/strong> to preserve your SEO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ce-quil-faut-preparer-avant-la-migration\">What to prepare before migration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you begin migrating your WordPress site, it&#8217;s essential to <strong>prepare the ground properly<\/strong>. A well-planned migration reduces the risk of errors, data loss or temporary site downtime. Here&#8217;s what you need to check before getting started.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sauvegarder-votre-site-word-press\">Backup your WordPress site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the essential step before any manipulation.<br>Even if your objective is precisely to migrate the site, you need to create a <strong>complete backup of the files and database<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upload your files manually via FTP and export the database via phpMyAdmin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a backup extension such as <strong>UpdraftPlus<\/strong> or <strong>All-in-One WP Migration<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Store your backup locally <strong>and<\/strong> in a cloud space (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This backup copy allows you to go back in time in the event of an error or incomplete migration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"verifier-les-prerequis-techniques\">Check technical prerequisites<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before importing your site into a new environment, make sure that :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The PHP version of<\/strong> the new server is compatible with your version of WordPress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The database<\/strong> (MySQL or MariaDB) is accessible and correctly configured.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Disk space<\/strong> is sufficient for all files and the database.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The domain name<\/strong> points to the new host if you&#8217;ve already changed your DNS.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choisir-la-methode-de-migration-adaptee\">Choosing the right migration method<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are several ways to migrate a WordPress site.<br>The choice depends on :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your <strong>technical skills<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>time<\/strong> you want to devote to it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>size of<\/strong> your site.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How <strong>often<\/strong> you need to migrate (one-off or regular?).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the following sections, we&#8217;ll look at two reliable methods:<br><strong>manual migration<\/strong>, and <strong>migration via a WordPress extension<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Migrate WordPress website manually\" class=\"wp-image-2531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement-1280x853.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-manuellement.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"methode-1-migrer-manuellement-un-site-word-press\">Method 1 &#8211; Manually migrate a WordPress site<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manual migration offers <strong>total control<\/strong> over the process. It&#8217;s ideal if you have basic technical skills and want to understand what&#8217;s going on &#8220;under the hood&#8221;. Here are the steps to follow.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"exporter-les-fichiers-et-la-base-de-donnees\">Export files and database<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Connect to your hosting provider<\/strong> (via FTP or File Manager).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Download all<\/strong> WordPress <strong>files<\/strong>: the wp-content folder, configuration files (wp-config.php, .htaccess), etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Export the database<\/strong> from phpMyAdmin :<br>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Select the database used by your site.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click on &#8220;Export&#8221; &gt; &#8220;Quick&#8221; method &gt; SQL format.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You now have a <strong>complete copy<\/strong> of your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"creer-la-base-de-donnees-sur-le-nouvel-hebergeur\">Create the database on the new host<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the new host, you must :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create a <strong>new, empty database<\/strong> (using phpMyAdmin or your host&#8217;s administration interface).<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the <strong>database name<\/strong>,<strong> user<\/strong>, <strong>password<\/strong> and <strong>server address<\/strong> (often localhost).<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"modifier-le-fichier-wp-config-php\">Modify the wp-config.php file<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before sending your files to the new server, open the wp-config.php file and modify the following lines with the new database information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>define( 'DB_NAME', 'nom_de_la_base' );\ndefine( 'DB_USER', 'utilisateur' );\ndefine( 'DB_PASSWORD', 'mot_de_passe' );\ndefine( 'DB_HOST', 'localhost' ); \/\/ ou l\u2019adresse fournie par votre h\u00e9bergeur<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This allows WordPress to connect to the correct database.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"importer-la-base-de-donnees-via-php-my-admin\">Import database via phpMyAdmin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Connect to <strong>phpMyAdmin<\/strong> on the new server.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select the empty base you&#8217;ve created.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click on &#8220;Import&#8221; and load the previously exported .sql file.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your site database is now transferred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mettre-a-jour-les-url-avec-un-script-comme-search-replace-db-ou-better-search-and-replace\">Update URLs with a script like Search Replace DB or Better Search and replace<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the <strong>domain name<\/strong> changes, you must update all URLs stored in the database.<br>Use a tool such as <strong>Search Replace DB<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upload the script to your new server.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indicate the old URL and the new one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start search\/replace (with caution).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For security reasons, delete the script immediately after use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Migrate WordPress website with an extension\" class=\"wp-image-2534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension-1280x853.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Migrer-site-WordPress-extension.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"methode-2-utiliser-une-extension-de-migration-word-press\">Method 2 &#8211; Use a WordPress migration extension<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you prefer a quicker, simpler approach, you can use a <strong>WordPress extension dedicated to migration<\/strong>. It&#8217;s the ideal solution for non-technical users or for saving time while minimizing errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"les-plugins-de-migration-les-plus-populaires\">The most popular migration plugins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is a selection of reliable extensions for migrating your WordPress site:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Duplicator<\/strong>: This creates a complete package of your site (files + database) for deployment on another server.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>All-in-One WP Migration<\/strong>: very easy to use, with a drag-and-drop interface.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UpdraftPlus<\/strong>: a backup extension with a migration option available in the premium version.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Solid Backups<\/strong> (formerly BackupBuddy): pay-as-you-go solution offering both backup and migration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>VaultPress<\/strong>: integrated into Jetpack, useful if you&#8217;re already a Jetpack subscriber.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These extensions automate much of the process, making them accessible even to beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"etapes-generales-dune-migration-avec-un-plugin\">General steps in a plugin migration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The steps vary depending on the tool, but the principle is generally as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Install and activate the extension on the source site.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a <strong>full backup<\/strong> or migration package.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Export or download the generated files.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install WordPress and the plugin on the new server.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Import files via extension.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check that everything is working properly after restoration.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pourquoi-opter-pour-une-sauvegarde-planifiee-et-externalisee\">Why opt for scheduled, outsourced backup?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some plugins, such as <strong>UpdraftPlus<\/strong> or <strong>Solid Backups<\/strong>, allow you not only to migrate your site, but also to <strong>schedule automatic backups<\/strong> and store them <strong>outside your host<\/strong> (Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon S3&#8230;).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This strategy has several advantages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t depend on the backups offered by your hosting provider<\/strong>, which are often limited or inaccessible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Always have a copy available<\/strong>, even in the event of server failure or human error.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restore or migrate<\/strong> from a reliable version in just a few clicks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secure your data over the long term<\/strong>, especially if you manage several sites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This system is particularly recommended if you regularly change servers or if you need flexibility in the event of unforeseen circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: Set up a weekly backup (or daily for high-traffic sites) and test restoration at least once on a test environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"avantages-et-limites-de-cette-methode\">Advantages and limitations of this method<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Advantages<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Accessible without technical skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Significant time savings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Less risk of error<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compatible with most hosting providers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Limits<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Some advanced features require a premium version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>May fail if host limits file size or script duration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"verifications-apres-la-migration\">Post-migration checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the migration is complete, whether manually or with an extension, it&#8217;s essential to <strong>check that your WordPress site is running smoothly<\/strong> in its new environment. This will enable you to quickly correct any problems and ensure a smooth user experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tester-le-bon-fonctionnement-du-site\">Test site operation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by browsing the main pages of your site:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Home page, internal pages, blog posts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Navigation links, buttons, forms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Downloads, shopping carts or specific modules (if e-commerce)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure that <strong>the content is displayed correctly<\/strong>, that <strong>the images are clearly visible<\/strong> and that <strong>the links do not redirect to the old domain<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mettre-a-jour-les-permaliens-et-les-redirections\">Update permalinks and redirects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Go to <strong>Settings > Permaliens<\/strong> in the WordPress admin and click on &#8220;Save changes&#8221;, even without changing anything.<br>This <strong>regenerates the .htaccess<\/strong> <strong>file <\/strong>and corrects any problems with broken links or 404 errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve changed your domain name, remember to set up <strong>301 redirects<\/strong> from the old domain to the new one for :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maintain your ranking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Redirect users and search engines to the right pages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ajouter-votre-site-a-google-search-console\">Add your site to Google Search Console<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve changed hosts <strong>without changing your domain<\/strong>, you don&#8217;t need to take any action.<br>On the other hand, if you&#8217;ve changed your domain name, you need to :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Add a new domain<\/strong> to Google Search Console<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use the <strong>change of address<\/strong> tool to inform Google of the transition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check that the XML sitemap is properly indexed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor the new site&#8217;s performance<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This will enable Google to correctly<strong> associate the new site with the old one<\/strong>, without any loss of visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Frequent questions and problems WordPress site migration\" class=\"wp-image-2537\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Questions-problemes-frequents-migration-Site-WordPress.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"problemes-frequents-et-solutions\">Common problems and solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if you follow all the steps carefully, errors can still occur after migrating a WordPress site. Here&#8217;s a list of the most common problems and how to solve them quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"erreurs-de-base-de-donnees\">Database errors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Symptom<\/strong>: An &#8220;Error connecting to database&#8221; message is displayed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The connection information in the wp-config.php file is incorrect (database name, user, password or host).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The database has not been correctly imported.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Solution<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check and correct DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD and DB_HOST constants in wp-config.php.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Log in to phpMyAdmin to check that the database is there and re-import it if necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"liens-casses-et-images-manquantes\">Broken links and missing images<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Symptom<\/strong>: Some pages display broken links or images, especially if the domain name has changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Old URLs are still present in the database.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The wp-content\/uploads folder has not been transferred correctly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Solution<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a tool like <strong>Search Replace DB<\/strong> or an extension like <strong>Better Search Replace<\/strong> to replace all the old URLs with the new ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check that all files in the \/uploads\/ folder have been transferred to the new host.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"boucle-de-redirection-ou-page-blanche\">Redirect loop or white page<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Symptom<\/strong>: The site gets stuck on an infinite redirect or displays only a blank page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Incorrect configuration of .htaccess file.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The problem related to permalinks or a plugin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conflict with PHP version or theme files.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Solution<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reset permalinks in WordPress administration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delete the .htaccess file (temporarily) and let WordPress regenerate it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Deactivate all plugins via FTP (by renaming the \/plugins\/ folder), then reactivate them one by one to identify the conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"foire-aux-questions-faq\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1743111627657\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Does migrating a WordPress site mean losing SEO?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, as long <strong>as you set up the redirects correctly<\/strong> if you change your domain name.<br \/>If the URL remains the same, Google won&#8217;t see any change. On the other hand, if the address changes, you need to set up <strong>301 redirects<\/strong> to indicate the correspondence between the old and new pages. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1743111641087\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I migrate a WordPress site without using FTP or phpMyAdmin?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, thanks to <strong>extensions such as All-in-One WP Migration or UpdraftPlus<\/strong>, it&#8217;s possible to migrate a site without manipulating the files or database manually. This method is recommended for novice users.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1743111663334\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What if my site is too heavy to be migrated with a free plugin?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Some plugins limit the size of exportable files (usually around 500 MB).<\/p>\n<p>In this case:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Try deactivating unnecessary files<\/strong> (e.g. internal backups, unused media).<br \/><strong>Upgrade to a premium version of<\/strong> the extension.<br \/><strong>Perform a manual migration<\/strong>, which has no weight limit.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1743111690382\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Should I deactivate plugins before migrating?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It&#8217;s not compulsory, but <strong>disabling caching plugins<\/strong> (such as WP Super Cache, W3 Total Cache, etc.) can avoid certain conflicts. You can reactivate them once the migration is complete. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1743111702704\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How long does a WordPress migration take?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>This depends on the method used and the size of the site:<\/p>\n<p><strong>With an extension<\/strong>: 10 to 30 minutes.<br \/><strong>Manually<\/strong>: 30 to 60 minutes. Allow a little more time for testing or error correction. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"quelle-methode-de-migration-choisir\">Which migration method should I choose?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Migrating a WordPress site may seem complex, but with the right steps and tools, it&#8217;s an operation you can manage yourself &#8211; even without being a developer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you&#8217;re looking for <strong>simplicity and speed<\/strong>, opt for a <strong>migration extension<\/strong> like All-in-One WP Migration or UpdraftPlus.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you want <strong>more control<\/strong> or your site exceeds the limits imposed by certain plugins, <strong>manual migration<\/strong> remains a reliable method.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In all cases, the key to a successful migration lies in a <strong>complete, tested and outsourced backup<\/strong>, as well as a properly configured environment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Need help migrating your site or setting up a professional backup strategy?<\/strong><br>Don&#8217;t hesitate to contact us: our team will work with you step by step to ensure a smooth transition with no service interruptions. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/en\/services\/migration-website-server\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"844\">website migration<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/en\/services\/email-address-migration\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"2282\">e-mail migration<\/a> services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-ast-global-color-1-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/cassiopea.ca\/en\/contact\/\">Contact us!<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Migrating a WordPress site can seem daunting, especially if you&#8217;re doing it for the first time.Fortunately, there are now simple and effective methods for transferring your site from one host to another, moving from a local environment to an online server, or changing your domain name &#8211; without losing data, without breaking the design, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2530,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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