How To Change Permalinks In WordPress Without Breaking Links

Changing permalinks in WordPress can improve your website’s SEO and user experience. However, if not done correctly, it may cause broken links. Here’s how to change permalinks safely:

1. Backup Your Website

Before making any changes, create a full backup of your WordPress site, including the database, using a plugin like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy.

2. Change Permalink Structure

1. Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.

2. Go to Settings > Permalinks.

3. Choose a new permalink structure (e.g., “Post Name” for better SEO).

4. Click Save Changes.

3. Set Up Redirects to Prevent Broken Links

After changing permalinks, set up redirects so old URLs point to the new ones.

Using a Plugin (Recommended)

1. Install and activate the Redirection plugin.

2. Go to Tools > Redirection.

3. Add a new redirect:

   • Source URL: Enter the old permalink format.

   • Target URL: Enter the new permalink format.

4. Click Add Redirect.

Using .htaccess (Advanced Users)

If you prefer manual changes, edit your .htaccess file:

1. Go to cPanel > File Manager or use an FTP client.

2. Find and edit the .htaccess file.

3. Add a redirect rule like:

   Redirect 301 /old-url/ https://yourwebsite.com/new-url/

4. Save the file and test the redirects.

4. Update Internal Links & Sitemap

• Use a plugin like Better Search Replace to update old links in posts and pages.

• Regenerate and submit your new XML Sitemap in Google Search Console.

5. Test Your Website

• Visit your old URLs to check if they redirect properly.

• Use a broken link checker plugin or Google Search Console to identify any issues.

By following these steps, you can safely change permalinks without breaking links or affecting SEO.