How to create a test website (your staging site!)

Hey there, digital adventurer!

Ever made a change on your website and instantly wished you could hit “undo”? Maybe you clicked one little button and; BAM! Your whole site looked like a picasso painting. Been there, done that, got the panic sweats.

In this blog, we will create a test website (a staging site) so you can practice, update, and fix errors without any stress. No more panicking when you accidentally click the wrong button. Your real website will stay safe! Even if all you know is how to log in and install a plugin, you can totally do this. Just follow along, click, and you're good to go!

1. Why bother with a test website (or staging site)?

A test website, or staging site, is like your website’s private dressing room. You get to try on new looks, test out wild ideas, and fix all those “oops” moments, without anyone peeking. Testing new things and debugging (that’s just a fancy word for finding and fixing problems) is so much less scary when you’re not working on your live site. Trust me, your stress levels will thank you.

2. Before we start: Quick check! (don't skip this!)

Some hosting companies (that’s the place where your website lives) are super nice and already have a “staging” button built in. Before you do anything else, check if your host offers this. If they do, use it! It’s usually the easiest way. If not, no worries. We’ll use a plugin that does all the heavy lifting for you.

3. How to make a staging site with WP Staging ( It's easier than you think)

If you know how to log into WordPress website and install a plugin, you’re already halfway there. Pinky promise!

Step 1: Install the WP Staging Plugin
- Go to your WordPress dashboard (that’s the main screen after you log in).
- In the menu (usally on the left of your screen) find “Plugins” on the left, then click “Add Plugin”
- Type “WP Staging” in the search box in the right upper corner of your screen.
- When you see it pop up, click the “Install now” button.
Once it’s installed, hit the blue “Activate” button (Look at you go!)

Step 2: Create your staging website (The magic part)
- After installation you’ll find “WP Staging” in your dashboard menu. Click "Staging Sites" in the submenu!
- Then click on the blue button “Create Staging Site.”
- Give your staging site a name. Something simple like “test” or “my staging site” works great.
- Click the big blue “Start Cloning” button.
- Now, just wait a bit. Depending on your site size (and your snack situation), this can take a few minutes. Perfect time for a stretch or a quick dance break.

Step 3: Visit your new staging site!
When it’s done, you’ll see a message. Click on the link for your staging site. You’ll be whisked away to your brand new, secret test site.
Bonus: your login details are the same as your real site. Don't forget to save the link in your browser favorites.

And just like that, you’ve got a safe place to debug, test, and experiment. No more live site panic attacks. You did it!

Need help picking your first few plugins? I’ve got a free resource guide for you! Click here for your free plugin inspiration.

Love,
Miss Clicks-a-Lot