Moving a WordPress site used to be a difficult task that involved manual database exports and slow file transfers. With BackupEase Pro, you can move an entire website from one server to another using a simple Migration Key. You do not need technical knowledge or FTP access to make this work.

How the Migration Works

BackupEase Pro uses a secure “Pull” method. Instead of you trying to push files to a new server, the new server reaches out and grabs everything it needs from the old one. It automatically handles the file transfer, the database import, and even updates all your links to match the new domain name.

Step 1: Generate a Key on the Source Site

The “Source Site” is the old website that you want to move. Follow these steps on your old site:

  • Log in to your old WordPress site.
  • Go to BackupEase > Migration.
  • Locate the section labeled Generate Migration Key.
  • Click the Generate Key button.
  • A long string of text will appear. Copy this key immediately.

Important Security Note: The key is only valid for 24 hours. For your security, the key works exactly one time. After a migration is successful, the key is automatically deactivated.

Step 2: Start the Migration on the Destination Site

The “Destination Site” is your new WordPress installation where you want the site to land. Follow these steps on your new site:

  • Log in to your new WordPress site.
  • Go to BackupEase > Migration.
  • Find the box labeled Enter Migration Key.
  • Paste the key you copied from the old site into this box.
  • Click the Start Migration button.

Step 3: Monitor the Progress

Once you click start, BackupEase Pro will take over the work. You will see a progress bar indicating several phases:

  • Connecting: The new site verifies the key with the old site.
  • Pulling Files: All your images, themes, and plugins are transferred over.
  • Pulling Database: Your posts, pages, and users are transferred.
  • Search and Replace: The plugin automatically finds your old website link and replaces it with the new one so your site works perfectly.
  • Finalizing: The plugin finishes the setup so you can log in.

Important Considerations and Caveats

  • SSL Security: Both the old site and the new site must have an SSL certificate. This means your website link must start with “https”. This ensures your data stays private while it moves between servers.
  • Disk Space: Your new server needs enough room to hold the entire site. If your site is 5GB, make sure your new hosting plan has at least 10GB of free space to allow room for the move.
  • Keep Your Browser Open: Keep your computer on and the browser tab open while the migration is running. If you accidentally close it, just go back to the Migration page and click Start again. The plugin will resume where it left off.

Pro Feature: High Speed Migration

If your new server supports it, BackupEase Pro will automatically use a tool called WP-CLI to handle the database move. This is much faster for very large websites. If your server is on basic hosting, the plugin will automatically use a standard mode that processes the data in smaller pieces to prevent crashes.

Next Steps

Once your migration is finished, your new site should look exactly like the old one. We recommend checking your images to make sure they load and testing your contact forms to ensure they still send emails.