Migrate a WordPress Site from One Shared Hosting to Another Without SSH

Introduction

Migrating a WordPress site can seem complex, especially without SSH access. However, with the right tools and careful planning, it becomes manageable. This article guides you to successfully perform such a migration, particularly with WP Migrate Toolkit.

Prepare for the Migration

Backup Your Site

First and foremost, make a complete backup of your site. This should include WordPress files as well as the database. You can use plugins like UpdraftPlus or Duplicator for this task.

Export the Database

Log in to the phpMyAdmin interface of your current hosting. Select your site's database and click "Export." Choose the SQL format for the export.

Using WP Migrate Toolkit

Installation and Configuration

Install the WP Migrate Toolkit plugin on your current site. Configure it by following the guide provided in the documentation. Ensure you have a backup before starting any operation.

File Migration

Use the plugin to extract your WordPress files. This includes themes, plugins, and media files. The files are usually compressed into a ZIP file.

Import to the New Hosting

On the new hosting, download and install WordPress. Then, use the WP Migrate Toolkit plugin to import your ZIP file containing the WordPress files. For the database, access phpMyAdmin, select your new database, and use the "Import" option to load your SQL file.

Final Configuration

Edit the wp-config.php File

Adjust the wp-config.php file of your new site to point to the new database, specifying the correct database name, user, and password.

Verification and Testing

Ensure your site functions correctly on the new hosting. Test all features and make sure all URLs are correct. Use online tools to check connectivity and loading times.

Conclusion

Migrating a WordPress site without SSH can be challenging, but tools like WP Migrate Toolkit greatly simplify the process. For an efficient migration, consider using the CLI or the plugin to save time and ensure data security.