Local for WordPress: A Guide to Site Migrations and Deployment
The beauty of developing websites locally lies in the control and flexibility it provides.
Whether you’re a seasoned WordPress developer or just starting out having a local environment for experimentation and testing is invaluable.
Local the renowned WordPress development environment tool makes setting up a local WordPress install a breeze.
However the real challenge arises when you want to take your meticulously crafted site live migrating it from your local environment to a remote server.
Tired of manually transferring files and databases? 😩 Try Local Connect for a one-click push to your WP Engine or Flywheel site! 🚀
This article will guide you through the process of deploying a WordPress site developed with Local exploring various methods and highlighting the advantages and drawbacks of each.
Understanding the Fundamentals of WordPress Migration
At its core WordPress is a combination of files and a database.
When we talk about migrating a WordPress site we’re essentially moving these two components – the site files and the database – from your local machine to the designated hosting environment.
Tired of manually transferring files and databases? 😩 Try Local Connect for a one-click push to your WP Engine or Flywheel site! 🚀
Let’s take a closer look at the WordPress file structure:
- Root Directory: The root directory of a WordPress installation contains three key folders:
/wp-includes/: This folder houses essential WordPress core files including functions libraries and classes./wp-admin/: This folder contains the administration interface files allowing you to manage your website’s content settings and users./wp-content/: This is where the heart of your site’s customization lies. It contains themes plugins and uploaded media files.
wp-config.php: This file holds crucial database connection details and defines various WordPress settings. It’s a critical component for ensuring the proper connection and functionality of your site.
When you’re migrating to a hosting environment where WordPress is already installed you usually only need to move the /wp-content/ folder.
This folder contains all the unique elements of your site allowing you to seamlessly integrate them into the existing WordPress installation.
Method 1: SFTP and Database Management
For those who prefer a hands-on approach SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) and database management tools offer a straightforward way to migrate your WordPress site.
This method requires a basic understanding of file transfer protocols and database interactions.
Transferring Site Files with SFTP
SFTP allows you to securely transfer files between your local machine and a remote server.
You can utilize popular SFTP clients like FileZilla which is compatible with various operating systems.
Here’s how the process works:
- Locate your Local site files: On your local machine navigate to the Local Sites directory and locate the folder for your specific site. Within that folder you’ll find the
app/public/directory. This directory contains all the essential files for your Local WordPress installation. - Choose your transfer method: You can opt for either cPanel’s File Manager or an SFTP client like FileZilla.
- Transfer the
/wp-content/folder: Using your chosen transfer method move the/wp-content/folder from your Local site’sapp/public/directory to the root directory of your remote WordPress installation.
Managing the Database
While SFTP handles the file transfer you’ll need a database management tool to handle the database migration.
Many hosting providers utilize phpMyAdmin a popular web-based database management tool.
Follow these steps to manage your database:
- Access your database manager: Log in to your web hosting control panel and locate the database management tool often labelled as “phpMyAdmin” or a similar name.
- Identify existing tables: Once you’re in your database manager note the WordPress database tables already present. These tables typically begin with the
wp_prefix. - Drop existing tables: Before importing your Local database you’ll need to drop the existing WordPress database tables.
- Import your database: Using your database management tool import the database backup from your Local site. This will bring all the data from your Local database to your remote server.
Important Considerations:
Tired of manually transferring files and databases? 😩 Try Local Connect for a one-click push to your WP Engine or Flywheel site! 🚀
- Database compatibility: Ensure that your local database and the remote database are compatible. If they use different versions of MySQL you might encounter issues.
- URL replacements: It’s crucial to replace any occurrences of your Local site’s URL within the database with the URL of your remote site. This ensures that links and other elements point to the correct location after the migration.
Advantages and Disadvantages of SFTP and Database Management
Pros:
- Greater control: You have complete control over every step of the migration process allowing you to fine-tune the transfer and database management.
- No reliance on plugins: This method avoids the complexities and potential conflicts associated with using third-party plugins.
Cons:
- Technical expertise required: Familiarity with SFTP and database management tools is essential for a successful migration.
- Time-consuming: The process can be more time-consuming compared to automated solutions especially for larger sites with extensive data.
Method 2: Deployment with Migration Plugins
For a more streamlined approach migration plugins offer a semi-automated way to move your WordPress site from Local to your remote server.
These plugins simplify the process by handling the file transfer and database migration reducing manual effort.
Popular migration plugin options include All-in-One WP Migration WP Migrate DB and Duplicator.
Using All-in-One WP Migration
All-in-One WP Migration is renowned for its user-friendly interface making it an excellent choice for non-technical users.
Let’s walk through the steps involved in deploying a site from Local using All-in-One WP Migration:
Exporting your Local site:
- Install the plugin: Install and activate the All-in-One WP Migration plugin on your Local WordPress site.
- Configure settings: Navigate to the plugin’s settings page and adjust any necessary configuration options such as the maximum file size for exports.
- Export files and database: In the plugin’s interface select the “Export” option. This will create a compressed file containing your site’s files and database. The free version allows you to export to a local file while paid extensions offer export options to cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Importing to your remote site:
- Install the plugin: Install and activate All-in-One WP Migration on your remote WordPress site.
- Import the exported file: Go to the plugin’s “Import” section and upload the exported file you created earlier.
- Complete the import: The plugin will process the import transferring the files and database from your exported file to your remote server.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Migration Plugins
Pros:
- Simplified process: The plugins handle most of the complexities reducing the need for manual steps.
- User-friendly interface: These plugins are designed with ease of use in mind even for those without extensive technical skills.
Cons:
- Plugin dependency: You rely on the plugin to function correctly. Any issues with the plugin can hinder your migration process.
- Limited features in the free version: Free versions of these plugins might have limitations on file size or other features requiring a paid upgrade for more advanced options.
Method 3: The Ultimate Automation – Local Connect
For an incredibly smooth and efficient deployment Local Connect takes the crown.
It allows you to push your Local site directly to your remote server with a single click eliminating the need for manual file transfers or database management.
However Local Connect currently supports only WP Engine and Flywheel hosting platforms.
Here’s how Local Connect streamlines your deployment:
- Connect to your host: From your Local dashboard click the “Connect” icon and choose “My Hosts.” Log in to your WP Engine or Flywheel account to establish a connection.
- Connect your Local site: Once you’ve logged into your hosting account you’ll see a list of your connected sites. Choose the Local site you want to migrate and select the remote server (WP Engine or Flywheel) and environment you want to push your site to.
- Push your site: A simple click on the “PUSH” button initiates the deployment process. Local Connect handles all the steps transferring files and databases to your remote server.
The Benefits of Local Connect:
- Effortless automation: One click is all it takes to deploy your site simplifying the entire process.
- Seamless integration: Local Connect works seamlessly with WP Engine and Flywheel making deployments incredibly straightforward.
- Reduced risk of errors: Automation minimizes the possibility of human error during the migration process.
Limitations of Local Connect:
- Limited hosting platform support: Currently Local Connect only supports WP Engine and Flywheel limiting its application to other hosting providers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right method for deploying your Local WordPress site depends on your specific needs and comfort level with technical procedures.
SFTP and database management offer hands-on control but require technical expertise while migration plugins provide a semi-automated solution with user-friendly interfaces.
However for ultimate ease and efficiency Local Connect stands out with its one-click push feature a must for developers using WP Engine or Flywheel.
No matter which method you choose remember to always back up your local site before initiating any migration process.
This will ensure you have a copy of your data and files in case of unexpected issues.
With careful planning and a clear understanding of the different methods available you can confidently deploy your WordPress site from Local to your chosen hosting environment.