How to change the WordPress site URL in MySQL

Accessing any WordPress website is dependent on the URL. The URL is a crucial component to keep the website running. By default, WordPress installs with a default URL. However, situations may arise where you may need to alter your website URL. To change your WordPress site URL, some steps need to be followed. One of the steps includes updating the WordPress site URL in MySQL. This article will delve into how to change the WordPress site URL in MySQL.

Understanding MySQL

The first thing to note is that MySQL is a database management system. It primarily utilizes SQL to manipulate data. Together with PHP, MySQL forms the fundamental building block of WordPress.

Instances you need to update the WordPress site URL

Before diving into the steps to update the WordPress site URL in MySQL, you need to understand scenarios that call for updating the WordPress site URL. They include:

• Migrating your website to a new domain name: When you have a new domain name, you need to migrate your website and, in turn, update the URL in MySQL.
• Changing the URL structure: When you decide to alter the URL architecture of your website, you need to update the URL in MySQL.
• Upgrading from HTTP to HTTPS: When securing your website with SSL/TLS protocols, you need to switch from HTTP to HTTPS. It, therefore, necessitates updating the URL in MySQL.

Steps to change the WordPress site URL in MySQL

To update the WordPress site URL in MySQL, the following steps need to be followed:

Step 1: Back up your website

Before making any adjustments to your website, it’s urgent to back up your database files. Any minor modifications can lead to the loss of critical information. Backing up helps prevent data loss, ensuring you maintain a functional website. You can use tools such as phpMyAdmin, Adminer, or WP-CLI to back up your database.

Step 2: Access the MySQL database

Accessing the MySQL database involves logging into your hosting account, navigation to the control panel, and locating the MySQL database settings.

Step 3: Locate the WordPress database in MySQL

Using phpMyAdmin, locate your WordPress database and open it ready for modifications.

Step 4: Change the WordPress site URL in the MySQL database

In the wp_options table, modify “siteurl” and “home” options, which contain your site URL. Add the protocol and the “www” prefix if any while updating the new URL to ensures the updated URLs are functional.

Step 5: Clear the cache

Once you update the WordPress site URL in MySQL, clear the cache of your website, browser, and any caching plugins you may have installed. This is necessary as cached copies of your website may still contain the old URL, which can lead to confusion and errors.

Step 6: Test your website

Finally, it’s essential to test your website to ensure it’s functioning as expected. If any errors are noted, revisit the changes made in the previous steps to ensure everything is set up correctly.

Conclusion

Changing the WordPress site URL in MySQL is crucial for a functional and error-free website. Take a backup of your website to avoid data loss. Understand the URL modifications needed and follow the steps outlined to successfully update your WordPress site URL in MySQL. With these steps, you are good to go.