How to Change WordPress Domain URL Safely

Updating the site URL requires careful database search-and-replace operations and proper SSL configuration to avoid broken links and redirect loops.

Based on 7 community reports.

Linked sources: 7.

Known Issues

• Broken image links after migration
• SSL certificate errors
• Redirect loops
• Database path mismatches

Community Q&A

How do I change my WordPress site URL?

You can update the site URL in the WordPress settings, via the wp-config.php file, or by using a search-and-replace plugin to update the database.

Why are my images broken after changing my domain?

Images often break because the database still contains hardcoded references to the old domain URL; use a search-and-replace tool to fix these paths.

Do I need to keep the old domain active after a move?

Yes, it is recommended to keep the old site active with 301 redirects for a few weeks to ensure search engines and users transition correctly.

How do I fix SSL issues after changing my domain?

Ensure your SSL certificate is reissued for the new domain and check your wp-config.php settings to force HTTPS connections.

Reddit Sources

• Do I keep the site with the old brand name parent URL alive, or not? (r/webdev)
• Migrating 3.100 URLS from a 14 year old Wordpress site - fear and loathing in Redirect spreadsheet (r/webdev)
• How does SSL work with redirected blog? (r/webdev)
• How to have sub pages with unique URLs on my site? (r/webdev)
• How can I fix my broken images after migrating WordPress website? (I know the problem, just not how to fix it) (r/webdev)
• Help needed in moving WordPress website URL (r/webdev)
• How do I deploy a Django App on a hosting service? (r/webdev)