This applies to moving the site within your own webspace, or if you want to move it to another host server. I have read a few versions of how to this and many details have been missed that are important.
Notes
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When moving a site you have to consider if you have ever modified (hacked) any core files in wordpress
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If you have and you want to maintain the functionality you must copy these over to the new installation
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WordPress stores all user data in the wp-content folder and sub-directories and its database. This means all plugins, themes, images and other added fies will be in wp-content folder. NOTE. Some plugins DO put files elsewhere. Be aware!
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If your file mods/ hacks are in the wp-content folder then carry on as below.
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If you have hacked/modified files anywhere else, these must be copied over separately.
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If you have no special mods/hacks, simple ignore the above.
Preparation on the old site
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log into the original site as admin
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Deactivate all cache settings and cache plugins. Make sure all cache files are cleared/ deleted.
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If you have Askimet installed make sure you delete any spam comments in the moderation queue.
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Log in to the FTP account and copy the wp-content folder and config.php to your desktop.
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Copy any other files from other locations if they have been modified! (see notes above)
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Some plugins are poor at removing their database tables and configs from the database. Login to phpMyadmin and delete any tables that are no longer being used by your existing activated plugins.
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Now optimize your database using the cpanel or other utility
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Make a database backup, using cpanel, phpmyadmin, db backup, or some other utility.
Related posts:
- How to recover a dead WordPress site
- WordPress Site Performance
- Database Admin Tool
- WordPress as a wiki?
- Using Mimbo theme
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