OUR LOCALHOST TO STAGING DEVELOPMENT WORKFLOW USING WORDPRESS, GITHUB, PLESK, AND WP MIGRATE PRO

Effective Site Migration from Localhost to Staging

Introduction

Site migration from localhost to staging is a critical step in web development. Over the years, various methods have emerged, but this article explores a preferred approach that has proven successful. We’ll delve into the process, tools, and best practices to ensure a seamless transition.
Whether you’re an experienced developer or just starting out, this guide will help you create your own migration strategy based on proven techniques. Our focus will be on using AWS with Plesk, but with some modifications, this process can be adapted to other setups.

1. Understanding the One-Way Process

Before we dive into the migration process, it’s essential to understand that the method outlined here is primarily for transitioning from localhost to staging. This approach is not suitable for post-production use. We’ll explore the reasons for this limitation and alternative methods for production deployments.

2. Setting Up the Repository

To initiate the migration process, the first step is to create a repository. This section outlines the repository setup, including what to include and exclude. We’ll discuss the importance of a .gitignore file and provide recommendations for optimizing your repository.

3. Installing WP Migrate Pro

WP Migrate Pro is a valuable plugin for database migration. In this step, we’ll guide you through installing and configuring WP Migrate Pro on your localhost site. We’ll also discuss its benefits and additional features.

4. Configuring Git and SSH

Properly configuring Git and SSH is crucial for a successful migration. This section covers adding your repository to Plesk using SSH and setting up SSH keys on GitHub. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth setup process.

5. Automating Updates with Webhooks

To streamline the migration process, we’ll explore how to set up Webhooks on GitHub. This automation ensures that your server is notified of any new commits, allowing for automatic retrieval of updates. We’ll address potential issues and workarounds for servers with SSL limitations.

6. Synchronizing the Database

With the repository and automation in place, it’s time to sync the database. This section provides guidance on navigating the WordPress setup screen and configuring WP Migrate Pro to push the database changes. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from database setup to synchronization.

7. Finalizing the Staging Site

Once the database is synchronized, your staging site should mirror your localhost copy. This includes active plugins, themes, and other database-related elements. We’ll discuss the significance of this final step and provide tips for troubleshooting any potential issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, migrating a site from localhost to staging is a crucial aspect of web development. The process outlined in this guide, tailored for AWS with Plesk, offers a reliable and efficient way to achieve this transition. Understanding the limitations and best practices associated with this method is essential for a smooth migration experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently migrate your sites and ensure they are in sync with your development environment.