Streamline WordPress database replacements
Better Search Replace Pro is designed for WordPress site moves where database values need to be changed from one string to another. This is commonly required when moving a site to a new domain or server, especially when the site URL appears throughout the database.
The plugin brings search and replace tools into the WordPress admin and uses WordPress native database functions. It supports serialized data across all tables, helping replacement operations account for values stored in serialized formats. You can also select specific tables instead of applying an operation indiscriminately across the entire database.
Review and control each operation
Before making changes, run a dry run to see how many fields would be updated. This gives you an opportunity to review the intended scope before applying the replacement. In the Pro edition, you can also view exactly what changed during a completed search and replace, making it easier to inspect the result.
Better Search Replace Pro adds database backup and import while running a search and replace. This places backup handling within the same workflow as the database operation. Because an incorrect search or replacement string can damage a database, create or import an appropriate backup and check the values carefully before proceeding.
For recurring work, save custom profiles containing your preferred search and replace settings. Profiles can be loaded later, which helps reduce repetitive setup when performing similar operations on multiple occasions.
Useful migration scenarios
- Domain changes: replace an old site URL with a new one after moving a WordPress installation.
- Server migrations: update database values after installing a site on a different host or server.
- Targeted updates: select particular tables when a full-database operation is not required.
- Multisite administration: work within the access boundaries provided for subsites, network administrators, and primary-site administrators.
- Repeatable maintenance: save profiles for search and replace tasks you expect to run again.
On a WordPress Multisite network, subsite administrators can search and replace within tables belonging to their own subsite. Network administrators and administrators of the primary site can work across all tables from the primary site’s WordPress admin.
Pro support and updates
The Pro version includes priority email support from the developer and support and updates for one year. These paid features complement the operational tools for reviewing changes, handling database backups, and repeating established replacement workflows.
Installation and use
Install and activate Better Search Replace Pro in WordPress. After activation, open Tools > Better Search Replace in the WordPress admin. Choose the search and replacement values, select the tables to process, and begin with a dry run. Review the expected fields, make a backup, and apply the operation only after checking the entries carefully.
