WP Engine Migration: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

<h1>WP Engine Migration: A Complete Guide (2025)</h1> Are you tired of slow-loading websites, poor customer support, or constant downtime? Maybe it's time to move your WordPress site to a better home.  WPEngine is one of the most reliable hosting providers for WordPress websites. If you're thinking about switching, this article will walk you through the WP Engine migration process step-by-step. Whether you're a beginner or a tech-savvy user, we promise—this guide will make your move easier. <h2>Why Choose WP Engine for Hosting?</h2> Let’s start with the big question: Why move to WP Engine? Here are some solid reasons: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Speed & Performance: WPEngine offers lightning-fast servers with built-in caching, making your website load in seconds.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Top-Notch Security: It provides daily backups, malware scanning, and automatic updates.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">24/7 Expert Support: Get help anytime, especially during migration.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Free CDN and SSL: Secure and speed up your site without extra costs.</li> </ul> According to BuiltWith, over 1.5 million websites are hosted on WP Engine as of 2025. That says something, right? And if you’re thinking of making the switch, don’t forget to check out a <a href="https://github.com/WP-Engine-Coupon-Code/">WP Engine coupon code</a> to save some money while getting premium hosting. A great deal on top-tier performance? That’s a win-win. <h2>Pre-Migration Checklist</h2> Before you begin, let's make sure you're ready: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Backup Your Site: Even though WPEngine offers backups, take one from your current host just in case.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Update WordPress & Plugins: Make sure everything is running the latest version.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Check Plugin Compatibility: Some plugins may not be needed or compatible on WPEngine.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Take Notes of Custom Settings: This includes DNS settings, email configs, and redirects.</li> </ul> Trust us, a few minutes spent on this will save hours later. <h2>How to Migrate Your Site to WP Engine?</h2> There are three main ways to migrate. Let’s start with the easiest one. <h3>1. Use the WPEngine Automated Migration Plugin</h3> This is the most beginner-friendly option. <h4>Steps:</h4> <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Install the WPEngine Automated Migration Plugin from the WordPress Plugin Directory.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Get your SFTP credentials and destination site URL from your WP Engine dashboard.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Enter the details in the plugin and start the migration.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Wait for it to complete. It usually takes 30–60 minutes.</li> </ol> Pros: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">No technical skills needed.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Quick and reliable.</li> </ul> Cons: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">It might not work well with custom server setups or very large sites.</li> </ul> And here’s a bonus: if you're moving your site soon, don’t forget to use a <a href="https://github.com/john9953/Web-Hosting/blob/main/Deals/WP%20Engine%20Coupon%20Code%202025%20%7C%2060%25%20OFF%20%2B%204%20Months%20Free.md">WP Engine discount code</a>. It’s a simple way to save while upgrading to premium hosting without the hassle. <h3>2. Manual Migration (For Advanced Users)</h3> If you love full control, this is for you. <h4>Steps:</h4> <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Export your database using phpMyAdmin.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Download all your files via FTP.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Upload files to WPEngine via SFTP.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Import your database in WPEngine's phpMyAdmin.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Update wp-config.php with new database credentials.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Point your domain to WPEngine's DNS.</li> </ol> Note: You may face downtime if you miss any steps. Be careful! <h3>3. Hire an Expert or Use WPEngine Support</h3> If you're not confident, don’t stress. <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">WPEngine offers free migration support for many users.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">You can also hire a freelancer from places like Upwork or Fiverr.</li> </ul> This might cost $50 to $200, depending on complexity, but peace of mind? Priceless. <h2>Common Problems During Migration (And How to Fix Them)</h2> Migrating a site can feel scary. Here are issues you might face and how to fix them: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Broken Links or Images: Use a plugin like Better Search Replace to update URLs.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">DNS Propagation Delays: Wait 24–48 hours after changing your DNS settings.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Mixed Content Warnings: Make sure all URLs are HTTPS after migration.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Login Issues: Clear your browser cache or reset passwords.</li> </ul> And remember, WPEngine’s support is always there. Don’t hesitate to chat with them. <h2>After Migration: What to Do Next</h2> Congratulations! Your site is now on WP Engine. Here’s what to do next: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Check Every Page: Look for layout or loading issues.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Test Forms and Checkout (if any): Make sure everything works.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Update Your Sitemap: And resubmit it to Google Search Console.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Set Up Redirects: Especially if URLs have changed.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Enable CDN and SSL: Both are free with WP Engine.</li> </ul> This is also a great time to clean up old plugins and improve site speed. <h2>How Long Does WPEngine Migration Take?</h2> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">With the plugin: 30–90 minutes.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Manual migration: 1–3 hours (or longer).</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Professional help: Depends on availability.</li> </ul> If your site is large (1GB+), expect slightly longer times. <h2>Special Tips for WooCommerce Sites</h2> Running an online store? Here’s what you need to know: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Migrate during low traffic hours (like midnight).</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Use a staging site to test before going live.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Keep your old host active for 48 hours, just in case.</li> </ul> Real-time orders are important. A glitch can mean lost sales. 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Give your website the home it deserves. <h2>FAQs</h2> Q: Will my SEO be affected during migration? A: If done right, no. Just make sure URLs and metadata remain the same. Q: Is WPEngine migration free? A: Yes, if you use their plugin. Otherwise, manual or expert help may cost you. Q: Can I migrate multiple sites? A: Yes, WPEngine supports multiple installations, especially on higher-tier plans. Q: Will there be any downtime? A: Minimal to none, especially if you use the automated plugin.