When a WordPress site moves to a new domain or server, old URLs and other strings may remain in its database. Better Search Replace Pro runs search and replace in the WordPress admin using WordPress native database functions. It supports serialized data across all tables, and you can choose particular tables to limit an operation. A running WordPress installation is the only server requirement.

Check the expected scope and completed changes

A dry run shows how many fields would be updated. That count helps you review the expected scope; after a search and replace is complete, Pro can display exactly what changed.

Pro also includes database backup and import during a search-and-replace operation. An incorrect search or replacement string can damage the database, so check both values and make or import an appropriate backup before applying changes.

Save settings for repeat work

Custom profiles shop search and replace settings that you can load for similar tasks later. Pro includes priority email support from the developer, plus support and updates for one year.

Multisite access

On a WordPress Multisite network, subsite administrators can search and replace only within tables belonging to their own subsite, from that subsite’s WordPress admin. Network administrators (Super Admins) and administrators of the primary site can work across all tables from the primary site’s admin.

Install and run a replacement

Install and activate the plugin in WordPress, then open Tools > Better Search Replace. Enter the search and replacement values, select the tables to process, and start with a dry run. Review the expected field count, make a backup, and apply the operation only after checking the entries carefully.

Change a site URL after a move

1. Back up the database on the current site.
2. Install the database on the new host.
3. On the new host, define the new site URL in wp-config.php.
4. Log in at the new admin URL and replace the old site URL with the new one.
5. Remove the site_url constant you added. You may also need to regenerate .htaccess by opening Settings > Permalinks and saving the settings.