Wix is a website builder that allows users to create websites without knowing how to code. It is an excellent tool for beginners that offers little flexibility. On the other hand, WordPress is an open-source platform that allows for a high degree of customization.
There are some reasons why you should switch from Wix to WordPress. For example, you might want to:
- Have more command over your website’s design and services.
- Use plugins and themes that are not available on Wix.
- Have access to a broader range of customization options, including code-level changes.
- Use a platform that is more SEO-friendly and better for search engine optimization.
- Take advantage of the large community of developers and users who can offer support and advice.
Of course, there are also some downsides to switching from Wix to WordPress. For one thing, the process can be time-consuming and complicated, particularly if you have a large website. Additionally, you may need to invest time and money in learning WordPress and setting up your new site.
Overall, however, many users find that the benefits of using WordPress outweigh the challenges.
Comparing Wix and WordPress
Before converting your Wix site to WordPress, it’s worth taking a closer look at some key differences between these two platforms.
Design and Customization Options
Wix offers a wide range of templates to create your site. While these templates are customizable, you may find that they are limited in terms of the design and functionality options they offer.
WordPress, on the other hand, offers a wider range of templates and more customization options. Using code, you can use a premade theme or create your own custom design. WordPress provides a wider range of plugins and widgets that can add functionality to your site.
Ease of Use
Wix is designed to be easy to use, even for beginners. The drag-and-drop interface makes creating and editing your site simple, and there is no need to know how to code.
On the contrary, WordPress has a more vertical learning curve. While the platform is user-friendly, it does require some technical knowledge to use effectively. Additionally, more steps are involved in creating and managing a WordPress site.
Pricing
Wix offers a range of pricing options, starting from as low as $14 per month. This includes hosting and access to the platform’s templates and features.
On the other hand, WordPress is a self-hosted platform, meaning you will need to purchase your hosting and domain. While free themes and plugins are available for WordPress, you may need to invest in premium options to get the features and functionality you need.
SEO
Wix offers basic SEO features, such as adding meta tags and descriptions. However, it may not be as SEO-friendly as WordPress.
WordPress offers more advanced SEO options, including installing SEO plugins and making code-level changes to optimize your site.
Converting Your Wix Site to WordPress: A Comprehensive Guide
Now that you understand the critical differences between Wix and WordPress, let’s learn how to convert your Wix site to WordPress. Converting your Wix site to WordPress involves three major stages: pre-migration, migration, and post-migration. The entire migration process can be easily done. However, you need to attentively follow the below-written steps that are practised by the developers of the leading WordPress web development agencies.
Purchase the Web Hosting
The primary step that you need to take is purchasing web hosting. Many hosting providers are available; you need to choose a suitable one for your site. After selecting a hosting provider and type of hosting, you need to choose a plan according to your requirements. It includes bandwidth, storage, and security required for the site.
Create a Temporary Domain
The second step is to create a domain for your new site. Your Wix site is still alive, so that you can set up a temporary domain for your WordPress site.
WordPress Installation
After setting up the domain, you can install WordPress software in your hosting account. Some hosting providers may offer an auto-installation system; this will help you to complete the process more efficiently. After completing the installation process, you need to do a few steps to complete the converting process.
Set up Your New Site’s Permalink
After the installation of WordPress, you need to change the permalink structure. This will help to optimize your new site’s search engine. To do that, you need to log in to your account and navigate to your admin control panel. You will redirect to the WordPress admin dashboard and select the “Post name.” You can change it according to your requirements.
Choose and Install a Theme
Before importing content, this is the last step you need to follow before importing content. You must understand that your other content, like posts, pages, and media, can be exported from your Wix site and imported to your WordPress site. However, your template can not be a part of this exchange.
You need to find and install a new theme for your WordPress site. The good news is there are lots of free themes provided by WordPress. You can go to the “Appearance” menu and select a theme from the WordPress dashboard. You can add a new theme and install it for your site with one click.
Migrate Content
After setting the new platform ready, you need to bring your old content to this site. This migration process can be done in two significant ways. One is by using an RSS feed, and another is by using an automated migration plugin. Depending on your choice, you can use either of these options to migrate your content to your new site.
Purchase or Transfer Custom Domain
After completing the migration process, you must purchase a new domain from your hosting provider. However, if you used a purchased custom domain in your Wix site, you can transfer and register it to your new WordPress site. This will replace the temporary domain you set up at the beginning of this process.
You must go to your Wix account and open the domain page to do this transfer. There you will see the required options for initiating the process. After starting the transfer process, Wix will send you a confirmation email with a code. This code will authorize the transfer to your new register.
After this, you only need to confirm the registration on your WordPress site. Further clicking on the “domain transfer,” you will get the domain status. There you need to enter your domain name and wait for approval. After that, you need to provide the code emailed by Wix. This will complete the transfer of your domain. You can customize it accordingly.
Summing Up
Now you know the excellent benefits of WordPress for your website. Also, you have learned the easy process of converting your Wix account to a WordPress account without losing a single piece of content. Now make your decision which will benefit your business.