# Configuring a WordPress testing sandbox

> Set up a WordPress testing sandbox by cloning your site, so you can try themes, plugins and changes without touching the live site.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/configuring-a-wordpress-testing-sandbox/

A **WordPress testing sandbox** is a safe environment where you can experiment with themes, plugins, and customizations without affecting your live site. On **ruachost.com**, you can configure a sandbox using cloning tools like **ManageWP** or staging features in your hosting panel.

## Why Use a Sandbox?

- Test new themes or plugins without risking downtime.
- Experiment with custom code safely.
- Ensure updates won’t break your live site.
- Create a staging environment that mirrors your production site.

## Steps to Configure a WordPress Sandbox (Using ManageWP)

1. ### Prepare Database and FTP Access

   - Log in to your hosting panel.
   - Create a new MySQL database and user.
   - Create an FTP account for the sandbox site.
2. ### Install ManageWP Worker Plugin

   - Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
   - Go to **Plugins → Add New**.
   - Search for **ManageWP Worker**, install, and activate it.
3. ### Clone Your Site in ManageWP

   - Sign in to your ManageWP account.
   - Add your WordPress site to ManageWP.
   - Go to **Backup/Migrate → Clone/Migration Wizard**.
   - Select your existing site as the source.
   - Choose **New Website** as the destination.
   - Enter the sandbox site’s URL, FTP details, and database credentials.
4. ### Finalize Setup

   - Test the connection.
   - Run the cloning process.
   - Visit your new sandbox site (e.g., `sandbox.example.com`).

✅ You now have a fully functional sandbox that mirrors your live site.

## Important Notes

- Place the sandbox in a **subdomain** (e.g., `sandbox.yoursite.com`) or subdirectory.
- Always discourage search engines from indexing the sandbox (Settings → Reading → “Discourage search engines”).
- Use strong credentials for the sandbox to prevent unauthorized access.