WIKI webhosting

Why Changing URL Address Causes Problems

Changing the URL address of a website in Wordpress settings is a common practice, often motivated by various reasons such as transitioning to a secure version of the website (from HTTP to HTTPS), changing domains, or migrating the website to a new hosting provider. While it may seem like a simple task, it often leaves undesirable side effects, especially concerning login issues.

When an administrator changes the URL address in WordPress settings, existing links and file paths may become invalid. This includes links used for logging in and managing session cookies crucial for user authentication. If these paths are not updated correctly or inconsistencies appear in the database, users may experience difficulty logging in.

How to Resolve Issues

1. Accessing wp-config.php File: One way to address this issue is by directly editing the wp-config.php file via an FTP client or file manager on your hosting. By adding the following lines of code, you can enforce WordPress to use the correct URL addresses for your site:

   define('WP_HOME','http://example.com');
   define('WP_SITEURL','http://example.com');
   ​

   Replace http://example.com with the current URL address of your website.

2. Database Modification: If editing the wp-config.php file does not help, it may be necessary to directly modify values in the WordPress database. This primarily involves the wp_options table, where you need to update values for siteurl and home. This modification can be performed through phpMyAdmin or another database management tool.

3. Using URL Change Plugins: There are specific plugins available that can simplify and automate the URL address change process, minimizing the risk of issues. These plugins typically offer user-friendly interfaces for updating links and addresses throughout the website, including the database.

Preventing Problems

To prevent issues associated with changing the URL address, it's important to plan ahead and proceed with caution. Backing up the website and database before making any changes is essential to restore the original state if needed. Additionally, it's advisable to perform the change during off-peak hours to minimize the impact on user experience.

Changing the URL address of a website in WordPress can pose not only technical challenges but also opportunities for improving performance and security. The key to success lies in careful preparation and understanding of potential pitfalls.