If you are moving to a new domain, switching to HTTPS, or moving out of a subfolder, you need to update your WordPress site URL. Doing it correctly avoids broken links and login problems. This guide explains the safe way.
The two URL settings #
WordPress stores two addresses under Settings > General:
- WordPress Address (URL): where WordPress core files live.
- Site Address (URL): the address visitors use.
For most sites these are the same. Update both to your new domain, including https, and save.
Do not forget the database #
Changing those two settings is not enough on its own, because old URLs remain scattered through your content, in links and image paths. After changing the domain you should run a search-and-replace across the database to update every old URL to the new one. A dedicated plugin makes this safe and simple.
Step-by-step for a domain change #
- Point the new domain to your site and enable SSL.
- Update both URLs under Settings > General.
- Run a search-and-replace for the old domain to the new one.
- Set up redirects from the old domain if it stays registered.
- Clear all caches and test.
If you get locked out #
Setting the URLs wrong can lock you out of the dashboard. If that happens, you can correct the values in wp-config.php or via the database in phpMyAdmin.
Troubleshooting #
- Broken images or links: run the search-and-replace for old URLs.
- Redirect loop or lockout: fix the URLs in wp-config.php.
- Mixed content warnings: ensure everything uses https.
Need help? #
Changing a site URL has a few moving parts. Our support team can help you do it cleanly over live chat.
