Moving Your WordPress Multisite to a New Server or Domain: The Essential Guide

Moving a WordPress Multisite network to a new server or domain can seem daunting, but with careful planning and execution, it can be a smooth process. This guide will walk you through each step, from preparation to completion, ensuring that your multisite network is up and running on its new server or domain with minimal downtime.

Preparation

Before starting the move, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your current WordPress Multisite setup. Here are the preparatory steps you should take:

1. Backup Your Data: The first and most important step is to create a complete backup of your multisite network. This includes all files, themes, plugins, and the database. Tools like UpdraftPlus, Duplicator, or manual backups via cPanel/FTP and phpMyAdmin can be used for this purpose.
2. Check Server Requirements: Ensure that the new server meets the necessary requirements for running a WordPress Multisite network. This includes the correct versions of PHP, MySQL, Apache/Nginx, and sufficient resources (CPU, RAM, storage).
3. Update DNS Settings: If you are moving to a new domain, update your DNS settings accordingly. This involves changing the A record to point to the new server’s IP address. DNS propagation can take up to 48 hours, so plan accordingly to avoid downtime.
4. Install WordPress on the New Server: Install a fresh copy of WordPress on the new server. This installation will serve as a placeholder for the migration process.

Moving the Files

Once the preparations are complete, the next step is to move the files from the old server to the new one.

1. Transfer WordPress Files: Using an FTP client or file manager, download all WordPress files from the old server and upload them to the new server. Ensure that the file structure remains intact.
2. Update wp-config.php: Open the wp-config.php file on the new server and update the database connection details to match the new server’s database. Ensure that the multisite settings are correctly defined.

Migrating the Database

Migrating the database is a critical step in moving your WordPress Multisite network.

1. Export the Database: Use a tool like phpMyAdmin or a database management tool to export the database from the old server. Ensure that you select all tables for export.
2. Import the Database: On the new server, use phpMyAdmin or a similar tool to import the database. Ensure that all tables are imported correctly.
3. Update Database Entries: The database contains references to the old domain/server. Use a tool like WP-CLI or a search-and-replace plugin to update these entries to reflect the new domain/server. Be careful to avoid accidental replacements.

Updating Network Settings

After transferring files and migrating the database, update your network settings to ensure everything functions correctly.

1. Update wp-config.php and .htaccess: Verify that the wp-config.php and .htaccess files have the correct settings for your new environment. Update any path or URL references if necessary.
2. Update Site URLs: Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Network Admin > Sites, and update the site URLs for each site in your network to reflect the new domain/server.
3. Check Domain Mapping: If your multisite network uses domain mapping, ensure that all domain mappings are updated to point to the new server. This might involve updating DNS records and configuration files.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Thorough testing is essential to ensure that your multisite network functions correctly after the move.

1. Test Site Functionality: Visit each site in your network and check that they load correctly. Test different pages, posts, and functionalities (e.g., forms, e-commerce features) to ensure everything works as expected.
2. Check for Broken Links and Images: Use a tool like Broken Link Checker to scan for broken links or missing images. Update any broken links to reflect the new domain/server.
3. Review Permalinks: Navigate to Settings > Permalinks and resave the permalinks structure to ensure that the .htaccess file is updated correctly.
4. Monitor Performance: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to monitor the performance of your sites. Compare the performance on the new server to the old server and make any necessary optimizations.

Final Steps

After ensuring that everything is working correctly, there are a few final steps to complete the migration.

1. Update Plugins and Themes: Ensure that all plugins and themes are up to date. This helps prevent compatibility issues and ensures that you have the latest features and security patches.
2. Enable Caching and Security: Re-enable any caching mechanisms (e.g., WP Super Cache, W3 Total Cache) and security plugins (e.g., Wordfence) that were disabled during the move. These will help improve site performance and security.
3. Inform Users: If your multisite network has many users, inform them about the migration and any changes they might need to be aware of. Provide support resources in case they encounter any issues.

Conclusion

Moving a WordPress Multisite network to a new server or domain is a complex process, but with careful planning and execution, it can be done successfully. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your multisite network is up and running on its new server or domain with minimal downtime and disruption. Learn More