Guide: Change URL in WordPress Effectively

Changing the URL in WordPress is a common task that website owners may need to undertake for various reasons. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change URL in WordPress effectively. Whether you are changing domains, migrating from HTTP to HTTPS, or moving your site to a subdomain, we will discuss different methods that you can use to update WordPress URL.

These methods include changing the URL via the admin dashboard, modifying the wp-config.php file, editing the database directly, and using WP-CLI. By following the instructions in this guide, you will be able to successfully change the URL of your WordPress site.

Changing the URL in WordPress can have a significant impact on your site’s accessibility and functionality. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, this guide will walk you through the process of updating WordPress URL using different methods. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how to change the URL in WordPress effectively. Let’s get started!

Changing WordPress URL via the Admin Dashboard

One of the easiest and most common methods to change the URL in WordPress is through the admin dashboard. To do this, you need to access the general settings screen by going to Settings > General in the admin menu. From there, you can update the WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) fields to reflect the new URL. It is important to ensure that both URLs match, unless you are giving WordPress its own directory.

After saving the changes, it is crucial to check that you have entered the correct URL as your WordPress dashboard will now only be accessible via the new URL. If you accidentally enter the wrong URL, you can override the settings by editing your wp-config.php file. Additionally, it is recommended to clear your WordPress cache to avoid any redirect errors.

Changing WordPress URL with wp-config.php File

Another effective method to change the URL in WordPress is by modifying the wp-config.php file. This file is typically located in the root directory of your WordPress site and can be accessed via FTP, SSH, or WP-CLI. By adding specific lines of code to the wp-config.php file, you can define the new WordPress Home and Site URLs.

These values in the wp-config.php file will override the settings in the admin screens, providing a more direct way to change the URL. However, it’s important to handle this file with care and ensure that you have a backup before making any modifications.

To change the WordPress URL with the wp-config.php file:

1. Access your WordPress site files via FTP, SSH, or WP-CLI.
2. Locate the wp-config.php file in the root directory.
3. Open the wp-config.php file using a text editor.
4. Add the following lines of code to define the new WordPress Home and Site URLs:
   

   define(‘WP_HOME’, ‘https://www.example.com’);
   define(‘WP_SITEURL’, ‘https://www.example.com’);

Replace ‘https://www.example.com’ with your desired new URL.

5. Save the wp-config.php file.
6. Verify that the new URLs are now grayed out in the General settings screen in the admin dashboard.

If you need to regain access to the URL settings in the admin dashboard, simply remove the lines of code from the wp-config.php file.

Remember to always handle the wp-config.php file with caution and create a backup before making any modifications. This ensures that you can revert to the previous settings if necessary.

This method provides a powerful way to change the URL in WordPress, giving you more control over your site’s address configuration.

Summary

By choosing the method that best suits your needs and technical capabilities, you can effectively change the URL in WordPress and ensure that your site remains accessible and functional.

Conclusion

Changing the URL in WordPress is a crucial step for website owners who need to make domain changes, migrate to HTTPS, or shift to a subdomain. It is important to select the method that best fits your requirements and technical capabilities. The admin dashboard method is the most user-friendly option, allowing direct URL updates in the settings screen. If the URLs are hardcoded in the wp-config.php file, specific lines of code can be added to modify them. Editing the database directly using phpMyAdmin is a more advanced approach that should be approached with caution. For developers, WP-CLI offers a command-line solution for URL updates.

Whichever method you choose, it is crucial to backup your site before making any changes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to effectively change the URL in WordPress and ensure the accessibility and functionality of your site.

Remember that maintaining an effective online presence requires keeping your WordPress URL up to date. Whether it is a domain change, migration to HTTPS or a subdomain shift, following the methods mentioned above will ensure a seamless transition and a fully functioning website. Choose the method that suits your needs and capabilities, backup your site, and safely change your WordPress URL today.