How to Migrate WordPress to Cloudways

Migrating WordPress to Cloudways is a predictable process if you split it into backup, upload, database import, DNS, SSL, and testing. This guide is the operational version.

Before migration

Check current disk usage.
Export files and database.
Write down active plugins.
Put the store in maintenance mode if needed.

Step 1: Export the database

mysqldump -u DB_USER -p DB_NAME > backup.sql

If your host does not provide SSH, use phpMyAdmin or a migration plugin.

Step 2: Upload files

Create a Cloudways application, then upload the wp-content folder to the new public_html directory. Cloudways official site

Step 3: Import the database

mysql -u DB_USER -p DB_NAME < backup.sql

Update the database name, user, password, and host in wp-config.php.

Step 4: Replace old URLs

wp search-replace 'oldsite.com' 'newsite.com' --all-tables

If WP-CLI is not available, use a migration plugin or the host migration service.

Step 5: Point DNS and enable SSL

Update the A record to the Cloudways server IP, wait for DNS propagation, then enable SSL and force HTTPS.

Step 6: Test the site

Check pages, images, and menus.
Test WooCommerce checkout.
Verify redirects and sitemap.
Remove migration plugins after stability.