How do I install and edit an existing site on my computer but not change hosts?

  • I feel like a complete newbie in this case. I have done other sites and been running this one for a while but I just do not understand what I am reading for this issue. I have never had to install it on my computer for a wordpress existing site, it is nothing like what I have done.

    We have an existing www.ads-software.com site, hosted at laughing squid.
    I did not create the site and have previously done all my editing online using the dashboard and admin login.
    The board wants a complete overhaul to the site now, so I need a sandbox to test a new theme and create the site.

    I have read a lot of instructions and answers and understand some things but I am having trouble connecting it to my issue. I am not creating a new site. I do not want to change hosts. I have never installed it on this new computer. and for after I get the sandbox working (assuming I do.) I do not see how to upload the pages back to the site.

    I am uncertain I am even asking the right question since I really am at a loss here but:

    I have the install an existing site instructions here but they talk about changing host…how does that apply in my case? I have a host but do not work from their site.
    How do I put the files in the website if I do get it installed? There is no upload page section in the WP admin login dashboard.
    Would I be better getting something like pressable or just using the www.ads-software.com download and the XAMPP?

    What am I not asking that would give me the missing link. I know there is just something I am missing that this should make sense but I am lost.

    The page I need help with: [log in to see the link]

Viewing 4 replies - 1 through 4 (of 4 total)
  • Moderator Steven Stern (sterndata)

    (@sterndata)

    Volunteer Forum Moderator

    For creating a local site (on your computer), I recommend Local By Flywheel. It’s a one or two click solution for creating development sites. When done, you can use plugins like Duplicator to move your site onto a public host.

    Thread Starter howan67

    (@howan67)

    okay, let me look into these and see.
    My main issue has been that I have an existing site that I need to get on to my computer and I have an existing host but I don’t know how to upload to the host.

    Moderator Steven Stern (sterndata)

    (@sterndata)

    Volunteer Forum Moderator

    Install a WP site in Local by Flywheel and use Duplicator to clone from your production site into the local sandbox. When you’re done, reverse the process.

    I am pretty sure that Laughing Squid has a clone/staging feature, and I know for a fact Pressable does. Honestly, that is much easier than a local install in most cases. I would advise contacting them as they will be happy to assist with getting the staging/clone site set up.

    • This reply was modified 6 years, 3 months ago by Host Magi.
Viewing 4 replies - 1 through 4 (of 4 total)
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