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Converting Your WordPress Site to a Static Site

WordPress sites are dynamic by default, meaning they rely on PHP and a database to generate pages. While this is powerful, it can sometimes slow down performance and increase security risks. On ruachost.com, you can convert your WordPress site into a static site to serve pre‑generated HTML files instead.

Why Convert to a Static Site?

Section titled “Why Convert to a Static Site?”
  • Performance: Static sites load faster because they serve plain HTML/CSS without querying a database.
  • Security: No PHP or database calls → smaller attack surface.
  • Scalability: Easier to host on lightweight servers or CDNs.
  • SEO Benefits: Faster load times improve search engine rankings.

When Not to Use a Static Site

Section titled “When Not to Use a Static Site”
  • E‑commerce sites (e.g., WooCommerce) → require dynamic content.
  • Forums or membership sites → rely on user interaction and databases.
  • AJAX widgets or live content → may not function properly in a static environment.

Steps to Convert WordPress to Static

Section titled “Steps to Convert WordPress to Static”

  1. Set up a staging site

    Section titled “Set up a staging site”
    • Use a subdomain or addon domain for staging.
    • Keep your primary domain for the static version.

  2. Install a static site generator plugin

    Section titled “Install a static site generator plugin”
    • Recommended: Simply Static plugin.
    • Go to Plugins → Add New → Search “Simply Static” → Install → Activate.

  3. Configure plugin settings

    Section titled “Configure plugin settings”
    • In the dashboard, go to Simply Static → Settings.
    • Choose output options (local files, ZIP archive, or remote deployment).
    • Adjust URL replacements if needed.

  4. Generate static files

    Section titled “Generate static files”
    • Go to Simply Static → Generate.
    • Click Generate Static Files.
    • Monitor the Activity Log for progress.

  5. Deploy static files

    Section titled “Deploy static files”
    • Upload generated files to your primary domain via FTP or File Manager.
    • Alternatively, deploy to a CDN for faster global delivery.