Cloning Websites with WordPress: A Comprehensive Guide

Cloning a WordPress website can be a straightforward process, especially if you have the right tools and plugins. This guide will walk you through the steps to clone a WordPress site using the Duplicator plugin or a hosting platform like Cloudways. The instructions provided here are designed to help both technical and non-technical users achieve their goals efficiently.

Why Clone a WordPress Site?

Cloning a WordPress site is a useful technique for creating backup copies, staging sites for development, or migrating to a new server. It can help you maintain your original website while testing changes or developing new features before they go live. Additionally, it ensures that no data is lost during the migration process.

Cloning with Duplicator Plugin

One of the most efficient and user-friendly ways to clone a WordPress site is by using the Duplicator plugin. Duplicator works seamlessly with WordPress, allowing you to create and deploy clones with just a few clicks. Here are the detailed steps:

Step 1: Install and Activate Duplicator Plugin

The first step is to install and activate the Duplicator plugin. This can be done directly from the WordPress admin panel.

Step 2: Create a WordPress Backup Package

Once the Duplicator plugin is installed, you can create a backup package. To do this:

Visit the Duplicator Packages page. Click on the ‘Create New’ button at the top of the page. Follow the wizard and click on ‘Build’ to start the backup process.

Duplicator will scan your site and create a backup package containing your database, images, templates, and all other files. You will be provided with a download link once the process is complete.

Step 3: Upload Backup Files to New Location

Upload the backup files to the new location. This can be either a live website or a local server. For a local server, copy the files to a subfolder in the htdocs or www folder. For a live site on a different WordPress host, upload the files using an FTP client.

Ensure that the new location is completely empty and contains only the necessary files and the backup zip file.

Step 4: Run the Duplicator Installer Script

Visit the new website in a web browser and add ?actionduplicator-install at the end of the URL. Replace with your own domain name or the localhost address of your new site.

You will see the Duplicator installer script on the screen. It will automatically detect the backup files and basic configuration settings. Go ahead and click on the ‘Next’ button to continue.

The next step is to enter the database information for the new cloned site. Make sure to click on the ‘Test Database’ button to verify the correct details. Then, click on the ‘Next’ button to proceed.

Duplicator will now import your database and files. It will automatically fill the URL Path and Title fields based on the changes. Click on ‘Next’ to continue.

Once the installation is complete, you will be prompted to click the admin login button to access the new cloned site’s WordPress admin area.

Step 5: Test and Finalize

Test both the admin area and the front end of your cloned site to ensure all data is imported correctly and the website is working as intended. Once you are satisfied, delete the installation files to clean up your new site.

Go to the Duplicator Tools page and click on the ‘Remove Installation Files’ button.

Now you have successfully cloned a WordPress site using the Duplicator plugin.

Alternative Method: Using Cloudways Hosting

Another efficient way to clone a WordPress site is by choosing a hosting provider like Cloudways. Cloudways simplifies the process with a single click, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer automation.

Conclusion

Cloning a WordPress site with the Duplicator plugin or Cloudways can be a painless process, ensuring that your website duplicates perfectly. Whether you are a technical user or a non-technical one, following these steps will guide you through the process with ease.

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