Moving a WordPress Site from Localhost to a Live Server (Hostinger)
In this session, we explored two effective methods to transfer a WordPress site from a local server to a live hosting platform, specifically using Hostinger. This step is crucial for making a locally developed website accessible on the internet.
Method 1: Using a Migration Plugin (Recommended)
This method simplifies the process by using tools like All-In-One WP Migration or Duplicator. Here’s how it works:
- Export the Local Website
- Install a migration plugin on your local WordPress site. For example, with All-In-One WP Migration, you can easily export the entire site as a single file.
- Import to Hostinger
- On the live site, install the same plugin and upload the exported file. The plugin handles all file and database configurations, making it a seamless process.
This method is highly recommended for beginners or when time is a factor, as it minimizes the risk of errors.
Method 2: Manual Transfer Using FTP
For those who prefer more control, manually transferring the site using FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a reliable option. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Prepare the Local Files and Database
- Export your website files from the local WordPress folder.
- Use phpMyAdmin to export the database as an SQL file.
- Upload Files to Hostinger
- Use an FTP client like FileZilla to upload your WordPress files to Hostinger’s public_html directory.
- Import the Database
- Log in to Hostinger’s phpMyAdmin and import the exported SQL file into a newly created database.
- Update Configuration
- Edit the wp-config.php file to match the new database credentials (database name, username, password, and host).
- Update Site URLs
- Use phpMyAdmin or a WordPress tool to replace the localhost URLs with the live domain URLs.
This method requires more technical know-how but offers greater flexibility and insight into how WordPress operates behind the scenes.
Key Takeaways
This session gave us practical experience with both automated and manual methods of transferring a WordPress site. By the end, we were confident in choosing the right approach based on the project’s needs and complexity.
Using these methods, I successfully migrated my portfolio website, helvin.sovasites.net, from localhost to live hosting. This site now serves as a showcase of my skills, creativity, and everything I’ve learned during the bootcamp. Seeing my work live on the web is a proud milestone in my journey as an SEO Specialist.