How to Migrate a WordPress Website Without Contacting the Old Developer

Migrating a WordPress website might sound like something only a developer can do. But what if your old web designer is unresponsive, vanished, or left you with limited access? The good news: you can still migrate your site safely and securely — without needing to contact the original developer. Here’s how.

Why Would You Need to Migrate Without the Developer?

This is more common than you think. Some typical scenarios:

• You’ve lost touch with your previous web agency.
• The old developer won’t give you the time of day.
• You were never given full access (FTP, cPanel, or WordPress admin).
• You’re moving to a new hosting provider for better speed, support, or price.

In any case, here’s a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know — even if you only have limited login credentials.

✅ Step 1: Determine What Access You Do Have

Before anything else, inventory your access:

💡 Tip: If you don’t have WP admin access, try password reset through the login screen using your known admin email.

🧰 Step 2: Choose Your Migration Method

Depending on the access you have, choose one of these options:

🔌 Plugin-Based Migration (Easiest)

If you can log into the WordPress dashboard:

• Use a plugin like:
  • All-in-One WP Migration
  • Duplicator
  • UpdraftPlus
• Steps:
  1. Install the plugin on the old site.
  2. Export the site as a backup.
  3. Install WordPress on your new host.
  4. Install the same plugin and import the backup.

📂 Manual Migration (If You Have Hosting or FTP Access)

If you don’t have WordPress admin access:

1. Use FTP or File Manager to download all files.
2. Use phpMyAdmin to export the database.
3. Upload files to the new host via FTP.
4. Import the database.
5. Update wp-config.php to match new DB credentials.

⚠️ Be sure to update the siteurl and home values in the database (wp_options table) if the domain or directory path is changing.

🛠️ Step 3: Point the Domain to the New Host

Once the site is live on your new server:

• Log into your domain registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.).
• Update the DNS records (A record or nameservers) to point to your new hosting provider.
• Allow 2–24 hours for full propagation.

💡 Check propagation with tools like whatsmydns.net.

🔒 Step 4: Secure and Clean the New Site

Once live, lock down your migrated site:

• Delete unused users or plugins from the old setup.
• Change all admin passwords.
• Install a security plugin like Wordfence or iThemes Security.
• Run a malware scan before going public.

❓FAQ

❓What if I don’t have WordPress admin access?

If you have hosting or FTP access, you can reset the password directly in the database via phpMyAdmin (wp_users table). Or, create a new admin user by editing functions.php.

❓Can I migrate only parts of my site (like just the blog)?

Yes, using plugins or manual exports, you can migrate only specific content types like posts, media, or theme files. WordPress’s built-in exporter (under Tools → Export) can help here.

❓Will migrating hurt my SEO?

Not if done correctly. Keep:

• The same URLs/Permalinks.
• A 301 redirect plan if structure changes.
• Google Search Console updated with the new site.
• Your sitemap resubmitted post-migration.

❓What if I don’t have domain access either?

You may need to:

• Prove ownership to your domain registrar (through billing or ID).
• Use legal action if the domain is locked by the previous developer.

🚀 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Stuck

Not having access to the old developer doesn’t mean you’re locked out of your site forever. With some basic access, the right tools, and careful planning, you can migrate your site confidently.

💬 Make sure your new host won’t leave you in the same situation ever again. You have a free and simple way out with us – that’s a promise. All our hosting and support plans are month-to-month, so we only retain 100% happy clients.