Find and replace for WordPress with a text editor
You can replace data within a database, such as the domain name, by exporting it and doing a "Find & Replace" with a text editor.
- Export your WordPress Database.
Warning: Make two exports and keep one as a backup in the event you need to restore to the original state.
- Open the .sql file in a text editor, such as NotePad++ or Sublime Text.
- Access the 'Find & Replace' feature in the text editor (usually Ctrl + F).
- Enter the domain/data you want to replace in the Find field (or respective field).
- Enter your new domain/data in Replace field (or respective field).
- Run the 'Find & Replace'.
- Save the updated .sql file.
- Before importing the .sql file, you must drop the tables in your database.
- Import your database.
Your WordPress site will now be updated to use the new domain or data.
Related steps
- If you using this process to change your domain name, then you may also need to update the domain on your hosting account.
More info
- Find and replace with a WordPress plugin.
- Back up your database. (
cPanel / Plesk / Web Hosting / VPS ) - If you need any assistance with a find and replace, our WordPress Premium Support team can do that for you.