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# How can I create a WordPress staging site?

Creating a staging site allows you to test new settings, plugins, and themes without affecting your live website. This process is essential for maintaining the integrity of your main site while you make changes. We recommend using a subdomain rather than a folder for a clearer separation of environments. Follow the steps below to create a staging WordPress website.

##### Create a Subdomain

To create a staging site, you will need a subdomain. Here's how to do it:

1. **Log into cPanel**.
2. In the **Domains section**, click on **Domains**.
3. Click **Create a New Domain**.
4. Enter the subdomain name (e.g., staging.exampledomain.co.za).
5. **Untick** the **Share document root** option to point the subdomain to a different directory than your main website.
6. Click **Submit**.

|| The domain must utilize our name servers; otherwise, you will need to manually add the DNS record (e.g., via Cloudflare).

##### Create the Staging Site

After setting up your subdomain, follow these steps to create the staging site:

1. **Go to cPanel** and select **WordPress Manager by Softaculous**.
2. Expand the WordPress installation you wish to clone.
3. Click on **Staging**.
4. The **Live Installation URL** will be automatically populated. In the **Choose Domain** dropdown, select your staging subdomain (e.g., staging.exampledomain.co.za). Ensure that the **In Directory** field is left blank.
5. Click **Create Staging**.
6. Wait for the progress bar to reach 100% before leaving the page.

Your new staging site is now ready! You can log in to the WordPress dashboard to test new features, plugins, and themes safely.

|| The admin/user account login details will remain the same as the source installation.

##### Enable AutoSSL for the Staging Subdomain

To secure your new staging subdomain with AutoSSL, follow these steps:

1. Go to **cPanel** and click on **SSL/TLS Status**.
2. Select the checkbox next to your new staging subdomain.
3. Click the **Run AutoSSL** button.

Your SSL certificate will be generated and installed automatically.

##### Push Your Staging Site to Live

Once you're satisfied with the changes made on your staging site, you can push it live:

1. **Go to cPanel** and select **WordPress Manager by Softaculous**.
2. Expand the staging site you want to push live.
3. Click on **Push to Live**.
4. Confirm by clicking **Push to Live** again.
5. Wait for the progress bar to reach 100% before leaving the page.

Your staging changes will now be reflected on your live website!

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact our [support team](https://my.elitehost.co.za/submitticket.php?step=2&deptid=14) or email helpdesk@elitehost.co.za.