Switch a WordPress website to HTTPS

Transitioning your WordPress website to HTTPS is essential for safeguarding user data and enhancing site security. While the process involves several steps, utilizing WordPress plugins and manually editing the database or using SSH and WP-CLI can streamline the transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to switching your WordPress website to HTTPS using various methods:

1. Choose a Method:

Multiple methods exist for switching a WordPress website to HTTPS, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an overview of the three main methods:

• Plugin-based Method: Using a dedicated SSL plugin is the most straightforward approach. Popular options like Really Simple SSL, SSL Insecure Content Fixer, and Jetpack handle SSL certificate installation, configuration, and redirects automatically.
• Database Editing Method: While more technical, editing the WordPress database manually provides greater control over the process. This method involves modifying database entries to replace HTTP URLs with HTTPS counterparts.
• SSH and WP-CLI Method: Utilizing SSH and WP-CLI offers a command-line based approach for switching to HTTPS. This method is suitable for experienced users who prefer working with terminal commands.

2. SSL Plugin Method:

1. Choose an SSL Plugin: Select an SSL plugin from the available options, considering factors like ease of use, features, and reputation.
2. Install and Configure the Plugin: Follow the plugin’s installation and configuration instructions, typically involving uploading the certificate and private key files provided by your Certificate Authority (CA).
3. Enable SSL in WordPress: Update the Site Address (URL) and WordPress Address (URL) settings in WordPress to reflect HTTPS URLs.
4. Force HTTPS Redirects: Enable the plugin’s option to force HTTPS redirects to ensure all traffic is redirected to the secure protocol.

3. Database Editing Method:

1. Access the WordPress Database: a) Connect to your WordPress database using a database management tool like phpMyAdmin. b) Access phpMyAdmin through your web hosting control panel or install it directly on your server.
2. Locate Relevant Database Entries: a) Navigate to the WordPress database in phpMyAdmin. b) Identify the database tables that contain HTTP URLs. These tables may include wp_posts, wp_postmeta, wp_links, and wp_options. c) Use the “Search” feature in phpMyAdmin to search for specific columns or patterns in these tables that indicate HTTP URLs.
3. Replace HTTP with HTTPS: a) For each HTTP URL identified, locate the corresponding database entry. b) Click on the edit icon for the selected entry. c) In the text editor, replace all instances of http:// with https://. d) Click on the “Apply” button to save the changes.
4. Save Database Changes: a) Repeat the process for all identified HTTP URLs. b) Ensure all changes have been saved before exiting phpMyAdmin.

4. SSH and WP-CLI Method:

1. Initiate an SSH Connection: a) Establish an SSH connection to your WordPress server using the appropriate credentials. b) Use a terminal application like ssh or Putty to connect to the server.
2. Install WP-CLI: a) Install WP-CLI on your local machine if it is not already installed. b) Download the WP-CLI installer from the official website and follow the instructions to install it. c) Add the WP-CLI executable to your system’s PATH environment variable.
3. Use WP-CLI Commands: a) Open a terminal window and navigate to the root directory of your WordPress installation. b) Use the wp command followed by the appropriate subcommand to manage SSL settings for your WordPress website. c) Common commands include:
   1. wp ssl enable to enable SSL on the website.
   2. wp option update siteurl https://YOUR_DOMAIN.com to update the Site Address (URL) to HTTPS.
   3. wp option update home https://YOUR_DOMAIN.com to update the WordPress Address (URL) to HTTPS.
   4. wp option update permalink_structure "[https://YOUR_DOMAIN.com]/%postname%/"' to update permalinks to HTTPS.
   5. wp rewrite flush to clear permalink cache.
4. Verify HTTPS Connection: a) Open your website using the HTTPS protocol (https://YOUR_DOMAIN.com). b) Check that the website is loading securely and that all links are using HTTPS.

Additional Considerations:

• Test for Mixed Content: After switching to HTTPS, use browser developer tools to check for any mixed content (HTTP links) that may still be using the insecure protocol.
• Validate SSL Certificate: Use a free online tool like SSL Labs to verify the validity of your SSL certificate and identify any potential issues.
• Notify Users: Inform your website visitors about the switch to HTTPS and encourage them to update their bookmarks.