Before making any changes, it's important to back up your WordPress website, including the database and all files. You can use plugins like UpdraftPlus or BackWPup for this purpose.
Make sure you have a hosting plan that supports WordPress. If you don't have one, you'll need to sign up with a hosting provider. Popular options include Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator.
Your hosting provider will provide you with details such as FTP credentials, database information, and control panel access (often cPanel).
Use an FTP client (such as FileZilla) to connect to your hosting server using the provided FTP credentials. Upload all your WordPress files to the appropriate directory, usually the public_html folder.
In your hosting control panel (often cPanel), create a new MySQL database and user. Note down the database name, username, and password.
In the root directory of your uploaded WordPress files, locate the wp-config.php
file. Update the database information (database name, username, password) to match the details you created in the previous step.
In your hosting control panel, often using phpMyAdmin, import the database backup you created earlier.
If your domain name has changed or if you're moving from a development environment, you might need to update URLs in the database. This can be done using tools like the Better Search Replace plugin.
If you're using a new domain, update your DNS settings to point to your hosting provider. This might take a few hours to propagate globally.
Visit your domain in a web browser to ensure your website is working as expected. Check various pages, links, and functionality.
Set up an SSL certificate for your website to ensure secure browsing. Many hosting providers offer free SSL certificates through Let's Encrypt.
In your WordPress dashboard, go to Settings > Permalinks and make sure your desired permalink structure is set up correctly.
Install and activate any plugins and themes you were using on your local or previous website.
Ensure your website looks and functions correctly on different devices, such as desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Double-check that all your content, images, and media files have been properly transferred.
Remember, the steps might vary slightly depending on your hosting provider and the specific details of your website. If you're unsure about any step, don't hesitate to reach out to your hosting provider's support for assistance.