Moving a WordPress database

My capstone class this semester built a client web site using WordPress. Design of the site needed to be well under way prior to the client acquisition of a hosting account. To progress with the site design and template construction we opted to create the site on a development server and then move it just before going live on the client’s hosting site. The development server was owned by one of my students and housed through goDaddy.com.

After the site design was completed, it was time to move the site, and corresponding database, to its new location. Moving the site files was easy, simple copy and paste of template files. Since the new site had a fresh installation of WordPress, we did not need to worry about the configuration file. To copy the database, I exported it to an external text file with the intention of a simple import into the production server. The instructions on how to do this are explained at the following links on the WordPress Codex:

Oh, if only it were that easy. Over the next several posts, I will describe what I ran into and how I overcame the obstacles. I will split the articles into the obstacles that I had to overcome.

  1. Obstacle: The SQL export text file was too big to import
  2. Obstacle: The database value pointed to the wrong site URL

2 thoughts on “Moving a WordPress database”

  1. Have you ever considered about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is fundamental and all. Nevertheless think of if you added some great visuals or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and clips, this blog could certainly be one of the greatest in its niche. Terrific blog!|

  2. Thanks a bunch for your kind words. I always have every intention of adding visuals, and then life happens. Since I’m an Assistant Professor, my time is limited. I usually start by creating the content, and know I’ll get back to polishing up the article. Yeah, that doesn’t always happen. I’m pleased to know that you have found my insights helpful.

Comments are closed.