Last
Updated: 05/21/2021
( 6 minutes reading )
Are you someone who would like to move their blog from WordPress.com to WordPress.org? Is it possible? Yes, entirely so. And HostArmada is here to help!
Many beginners often start with WordPress.com, but they soon realize its limitations and want to switch to a self-hosted solution. A self-hosted solution like HostArmada provides with our WordPress hosting packages. Check them out if you haven’t yet! On a WordPress.com blog, you have limited ability to monetize, can’t install plugins, third-party ads are displayed to your users, and even more detriments are included with that.
In this step-by-step tutorial, we will be showing you how to properly move your blog from WordPress.com to a HostArmada self-hosted web hosting solution!
Here are the steps that you should take to ensure a seamless transition between WordPress.com and your self-hosted solution with HostArmada.
*Note: You will need a web hosting package and a domain name to start. Fortunately, you get that when you sign up for any of our packages. And if you already have a domain name purchased from WordPress.com, you can use that one as well.
Step 1. You will have to install a fresh WordPress installation on your HostArmada web hosting solution.
For direct installation, you can access the tutorial here.
And if you’d like to install it in a sub-directory, here is another tutorial.
*Note: You must install the new WordPress application with the same theme that you use on your WordPress.com blog. Additionally, you can also change the theme if you have your WordPress already installed by logging into your admin area and going to Appearance → Themes → Then changing it from there.
Step 2. Then you will want to make sure that your self-hosted WordPress installation uses the same permalink structure as your WordPress.com website.
By default, WordPress.com websites use the “Day and name” permalink structure.
For you to mimic this permalink structure on your HostArmada self-hosted WordPress solution, you have to log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Settings → Permalinks → Then choose the option for “Day and name” and save your changes.
Step 3. After you’ve done the preparations, what is next is to export your content from WordPress.com.
To export your site’s content, go to the WordPress.com dashboard for your site. Click the “Settings” option in the sidebar. Then, scroll down to the bottom and find the Export option under Site Tools.
On the next screen, click the “Export All button” next to Export your content.
This will then allow you to receive a download link in your email. Alternatively, you can click the Download link in the interface.
Step 4. Whether you get the download through your e-mail or directly through the link, you will need to unpack it. The download will be a ZIP file on your desktop. Once the download finishes, you need to extract the ZIP file. If you’re using Windows, you can do that by right-clicking and choosing “Extract here”.
When the extraction of the ZIP file’s contents is complete, you should be able to open a folder that contains a .xml file. Make sure to keep that on hand because you will need it for the next steps!
Step 5. Now you are ready to import the content to the new WordPress.org website that you have set up with HostArmada. To do that, visit the Tools → Import page.
Then click on the “Install Now” button below WordPress. WordPress will now install the WordPress importer for you.
Once it’s done, you need to click on the “Run Importer” link to continue.
It will take you to a screen where you will be asked to upload your WordPress.com XML file that you downloaded earlier in the tutorial and unpacked in step four.
When you start importing, you will be given the option of assigning imported content to an existing user or to create a new user. We suggest selecting the option to assign posts to an existing user and selecting your username from the drop-down.
You’ll also have the option to import file attachments. It is imperative that you check this box so your image files are imported properly.
Step 6. After that, all you have to do is to click “Submit,” and Once the process finishes, you should see a success message.
Congratulations, you did it!
Taking your WordPress.com website to the next stage in its evolution is an excellent time to be inspired by all the possibilities that come with having a self-hosted WordPress. Our wish is that this tutorial can provide you with help during this transition between web hosting solutions and make it as seamless as possible. Regardless, if you still encounter issues during the process or have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact our technical support team at any time. HostArmada remains ready to be deployed 24/7!
Daniel, our Content Manager, joined HostArmada with over five years of experience under his belt in the web hosting sector in various roles, including customer care, sales, and technical support. His passion for writing and communications and his experience makes him the ideal person for the job. He is devoted to spreading wisdom and knowledge about the web hosting sector so that both clients and colleagues can benefit greatly. In his words, serving and educating others is the way to mutual prosperity.
Learn more about Wordpress in the other tutorials that we have:
