Removing a Domain Name from WordPress: A Perplexing and Bursting Experience

Oh, the trials and tribulations of managing a WordPress site! Sometimes, it becomes necessary to remove a domain name from your WordPress site. Perhaps your business name has changed, or maybe you no longer need that particular domain. Whatever the reason, fear not! There are several ways to remove a domain name from WordPress, and we’ll explore them here, providing a step-by-step guide.

Option 1: Delete Your Entire WordPress Site

Now, this may seem like an extreme solution, but hear us out. Sometimes, deleting your entire site may be necessary in certain situations. Follow these steps:

1. Step 1: Back Up Your WordPress Site

It’s crucial to back up all your files and data before deleting your site. Use a backup plugin like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy, or your web host’s backup service.

2. Step 2: Log In to Your WordPress Site

Log in to your site using your administrator credentials.

3. Step 3: Go to Tools > Export

On your WordPress dashboard, go to Tools and click on Export.

4. Step 4: Choose What to Export

Select what parts of your site you want to export, like posts, pages, comments, and media.

5. Step 5: Download the Export File

Download the export file that contains all the data you’ve chosen to export.

6. Step 6: Disable Your Domain Name

Disable your domain name through your domain registrar.

7. Step 7: Delete Your WordPress Site

Go to your web host’s cPanel and find the option to delete your site, or use an FTP client to remove all site files.

Option 2: Remove the Domain Name From Your WordPress Site

If deleting your site sounds too extreme, there’s a less drastic way to remove your domain name:

1. Step 1: Log In to Your WordPress Site

Use your administrator credentials to log in.

2. Step 2: Go to Settings > General

On your WordPress dashboard, click on General under Settings.

3. Step 3: Change the WordPress and Site Address URLs

Under General Settings, you’ll see both your WordPress and Site Address URLs. Change both to the new domain name you want to use.

4. Step 4: Save Changes

Make sure to click on Save Changes.

5. Step 5: Update Your .htaccess File

If you have an .htaccess file, update it with your new domain name by changing instances of your old domain name to the new one in a text editor.

6. Step 6: Update Your wp-config.php File

In a text editor, change instances of your old domain name to the new one in your wp-config.php file.

7. Step 7: Update Your Database

Finally, use a plugin like Velvet Blues Update URLs or manually edit your database using phpMyAdmin to update your database with the new domain name.

Option 3: Use a Plugin to Change Your Domain Name

Don’t want to mess around with manual updates? Use a plugin:

1. Step 1: Install and Activate the Plugin

Choose a reputable plugin like Better Search Replace, Velvet Blues Update URLs, or All-in-One WP Migration. Install and activate it.

2. Step 2: Go to the Plugin Settings

On your WordPress dashboard, go to the tab Settings and click on the plugin you’ve installed.

3. Step 3: Enter Your Old and New Domain Names

In the plugin settings, enter your old domain name and your new domain name.

4. Step 4: Run the Plugin

Run the plugin and let it update your website’s database with your new domain name.

Conclusion

Removing a domain name from WordPress may seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you can do it! Whether you want to delete your entire site, remove the domain name, or use a plugin, the task is now within reach. Manage your WordPress site with ease, and fear no more!