Why move?
- WordPress.com is beginner-friendly but restrictive (e.g., limited themes, plugins, and monetization).
- Self-hosted WordPress.org offers full control over your site and unlimited customization.
Preparation
- Choose a Hosting Provider and Domain
- Recommended: Bluehost for reliability and WordPress compatibility.
-
Options:
- Transfer an existing domain.
- Register a new domain via your hosting provider.
-
Set Up Hosting
- Register with your hosting provider.
- Install WordPress (most providers, like Bluehost, offer one-click installations).
Migration Process
1. Export Your WordPress.com Blog
- Log in to your WordPress.com account.
- Navigate to Settings > General > Export.
- Choose "Export All" to download an XML file containing posts, pages, comments, and other data.
- Download media files separately if needed.
2. Import into WordPress.org
- Log in to your self-hosted WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Tools > Import and install the "WordPress Importer" plugin.
- Upload the exported XML file.
- Choose whether to assign existing authors or create new ones.
- Select "Download and import file attachments" to migrate images and other media.
3. Handle Blogroll Links (if applicable)
- Use the Link Manager plugin to export and import sidebar links.
4. Redirect or Manage Old Blog
- Redirect Visitors (recommended for established blogs):
- Use WordPress.com’s paid redirection service ($13/year).
- Other Options:
- Set the old blog to private.
- Delete the old blog if it’s not needed.
Post-Migration Steps
- Test Your Site
- Check posts, pages, menus, and comments for errors.
-
Ensure all links and media are functional.
-
Choose a Theme
- Select a fresh design for your new blog.
-
Consider themes from reliable providers like Elegant Themes.
-
Install Plugins
-
Enhance functionality with plugins (e.g., SEO, performance optimization, and security).
-
Keep Your Site Maintained
- Regular updates for WordPress, themes, and plugins.
- Use tools to monitor and improve website performance.
FAQs
1. What happens to my old WordPress.com blog?
You can redirect it, set it to private, or delete it.
2. Can I keep my subscribers?
Yes, use the Jetpack plugin to migrate them.
3. How long will the migration take?
The process is seamless, and your old site remains active until the migration is complete.
4. Do I need a new domain?
No, you can transfer your existing domain to the new host by updating the nameservers.
To Sum Up
Migrating from WordPress.com to WordPress.org opens up endless possibilities for customization and growth. Test your new site, choose a theme, and enhance it with plugins. For help, refer to tutorials and guides to keep your blog thriving.
Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
