How to Add Your Website to Local from Pressable
Adding your Pressable website to your local development environment can be a lifesaver for testing new features, experimenting with code changes, or even just working offline. This process allows you to replicate your live website locally so you can work on it without affecting your live site. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to add your Pressable website to your local environment using tools like WordPress and Local by Flywheel.
Understanding the Process
Before diving into the steps, let's understand what's involved in adding your Pressable website to your local environment.
1. Downloading and Installing the Site: The initial step involves getting a copy of your website's files and database. You can use Pressable's backup tools or FTP to acquire these.
2. Setting up a Local Development Environment: This means having the necessary software on your computer to run a local version of your site. Tools like Local by Flywheel or MAMP are common choices.
3. Configuring Your Local Environment: Once your local environment is set up, you need to configure it to correctly host your Pressable website. This involves setting up the database, defining website URLs, and ensuring your website's files are properly placed.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a detailed guide to add your Pressable website to your local environment:
1. Set up Local by Flywheel
- Install Local by Flywheel: Download and install Local by Flywheel from their official website.
- Create a New Site: Open Local by Flywheel and click "Add New Site." Choose a site name, your preferred web server (usually Apache or Nginx), and a site URL (this can be a temporary address like "yoursite.local").
- Database: During site creation, Local by Flywheel will prompt you to create a database. Select a name and create the database.
2. Download Your Website's Files and Database
- Pressable's Backup Tools: Use Pressable's built-in backup tools to download your website's files and database. This is usually a zip file that contains everything you need.
- FTP: Alternatively, you can use an FTP client (like Filezilla) to connect to your Pressable server and download the files manually. You will also need to export your database through phpMyAdmin or similar tools.
3. Import the Files and Database
- Files: Extract the downloaded files from the zip file. You should see your website's folders and files (like wp-config.php, wp-content, and so on).
- Database: In Local by Flywheel, click on your new site. You will see a "Database" tab. Click on "Import Database." Locate the downloaded database file (usually a .sql file) and import it into the database you created in step 1.
4. Configure Your Local Environment
- WordPress: If your website is powered by WordPress, ensure the 'wp-config.php' file's database settings (host, username, password, and database name) match the settings you configured in Local by Flywheel.
- Site URL: Edit the site URL (both 'WordPress Address' and 'Site Address') in your WordPress Dashboard (Settings > General) to match the local URL you defined in Local by Flywheel.
5. Start Your Site
- Local by Flywheel: Click on the "Start" button for your site in Local by Flywheel.
- Website Access: Your website should now be accessible in your browser. The URL will be the local address you defined (e.g., yoursite.local).
6. Make Changes and Test
You are now free to make changes to your website's files, content, or plugins. This is a safe environment to experiment without affecting your live site.
7. Deploying Changes
Once you are satisfied with your changes, you can deploy them back to your live Pressable site.
Troubleshooting
1. Database Connection Errors: If you encounter issues connecting to your database, double-check the database settings in 'wp-config.php' and ensure they match the local database configuration.
2. Site URL Errors: Check if the site URL is correctly configured in your WordPress dashboard. If it doesn't match the local URL, you might see errors.
3. Permission Issues: Sometimes, files might have incorrect permissions, preventing your website from working. Check the file permissions and ensure they are correct.
4. File Transfer Issues: If you're downloading files using FTP, ensure you have the correct access credentials and check for any connection issues.
Tips for Working Locally
- Utilize a Version Control System: Use tools like Git to track your changes, making it easier to revert to previous versions or collaborate with others.
- Use a Local Development Plugin: Plugins like "WP Local Server" or "Local Environment" can help you easily switch between local and live environments.
- Keep your Local Environment Updated: Regularly update Local by Flywheel, your web server, and other related software to ensure compatibility and security.
Conclusion
Adding your Pressable website to a local environment is a valuable technique for developers and website owners alike. It allows you to work independently without affecting your live site, test changes before deploying, and develop new features with greater confidence. Remember to follow the steps carefully and always keep a backup of your website for safety.
