How to Change WordPress Website Domain Name: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Are you planning to change your WordPress website’s domain name? This is a common dilemma for many website owners, and it can be a daunting task, especially for those without technical expertise. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to change your WordPress website’s domain name, from preparing for the change to executing it. By the end of this article, you will have a solid understanding of the entire process and be ready to make the change with confidence.
Preparation is Key
Before diving into the process of changing your WordPress website’s domain name, there are a few things you should do to prepare:
- Backup your website: It is crucial to backup your website before making any changes. This will ensure that your website’s files and database are safe in case something goes wrong. You can use plugins like UpdraftPlus or VaultPress to backup your website.
- Update your DNS: You will need to update your DNS (Domain Name System) to point to the new domain name. This will ensure that your website is accessible through the new domain.
Changing the Domain Name
Now that you are prepared, it’s time to make the actual changes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Option 1: Changing Domain Name through cPanel
Step 1: Log in to your cPanel account (control panel).
Step 2: Go to the "Domains" section and click on "Domain Manager".
Step 3: Find the domain you want to change and click on the "Edit" button.
Step 4: Scroll down to the "Points to Hosting" section and click on the "Edit" button next to "Public HTML".
Step 5: In the new window, enter your new domain name and click "Update".
Step 6: Go back to the main cPanel page and click on "Zone Editor" under the "Domains" section.
Step 7: Find your domain name in the list and click on the "Edit" button.
Step 8: Update the DNS settings to point to your new domain name.
Option 2: Changing Domain Name through your registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.)
Step 1: Log in to your registrar’s account (e.g. GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.).
Step 2: Find the domain you want to change and click on the "Edit" button.
Step 3: Look for the "DNS" or "Name Servers" section and click on the "Edit" button.
Step 4: Update the DNS settings to point to your new domain name.
Step 5: Save your changes.
Step 6: Update your cPanel (if you have one) with the new domain name.
Post-Changes Check
After completing the above steps, there are a few things to check to ensure everything is working as expected:
- Website is accessible: Try visiting your website to ensure it is accessible through the new domain name.
- All pages are working: Test all your website’s pages and functionality to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Email is working: Test your website’s email functionality to ensure it is working correctly.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Error: DNS propagation takes time: If your website is not accessible, it’s possible that the DNS propagation is still in progress. Check the propagation status using tools like What’s My DNS or DNSChecker.
- Error: Files not updated: If your website’s files are not updated, try clearing your browser’s cache or try accessing your website on a different device.
Conclusion
Changing your WordPress website’s domain name can be a daunting task, but with this guide, you should be well-equipped to handle the process. Remember to backup your website, update your DNS, and test your website thoroughly after making the changes. By following these steps and troubleshooting common issues, you’ll be able to change your website’s domain name with confidence.