WordPress pre-launch checklist: 7 steps
Most problems in the first weeks can be prevented with a few simple checks. The seven steps we go through before launching a WordPress site.
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Launching a WordPress site looks like pressing "Publish". In practice, most problems in the first weeks can be prevented with a few simple checks. This list is a trimmed-down version of what we go through before every launch.
1. Take a backup and test the restore
Back up the files and the database. Then restore that backup once and confirm it works. An untested backup is not a backup. Store it somewhere other than the server the site runs on.
2. Update, then delete what you don't use
Update WordPress core, the theme and plugins. Don't just deactivate unused plugins and themes, delete them. Every plugin that stops getting updates can become a security hole.
3. Set permalinks and redirects
Pick a readable structure under Settings › Permalinks, such as post name. If you are moving from an old site, point important old URLs to the new pages with 301 redirects, so you keep your search rankings.
4. Make sure search engines are not blocked
The "Discourage search engines from indexing this site" option, switched on during development, is the most commonly forgotten setting. Check it is off under Settings › Reading, then submit your sitemap to Google Search Console.
5. Test forms and email
Send the contact form to a real address and confirm the message arrives. On shared hosting, emails sent by WordPress can land in spam. An SMTP plugin with correct SPF and DKIM records usually fixes this.
6. Turn on caching last
Enable the caching plugin last. Then test forms, menus and the cart page again, if you have one. Resizing images to their display size before upload often makes more difference than any plugin.
7. Browse on a phone and a desktop
Go through the whole site on at least one phone and one desktop browser. Pay attention to:
- Links in the menu and footer
- Forms and thank-you messages
- External links and downloadable files
- Legal pages: privacy and cookie policy
The first week after launch
Check error logs and form messages. Small problems are easy to catch at this stage. If the site feels slow, read why is your site slow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important step before launch?
The backup. Everything else can be fixed later. Without a working backup, a small mistake can turn into a big loss.
Can I do these checks myself?
Yes, most of the steps happen in the admin panel. If you get stuck on redirects or email settings, we handle them as part of our WordPress service.