Client Overview
The client is a business owner in the hardware industry with a basic understanding of technology. They initially hosted their WordPress site with a third-party provider but found it difficult to manage regular web maintenance tasks.
Project Challenges
The main challenge was the lack of control over the hosting environment, leading to difficulties in managing the website’s performance and maintenance. The client wanted a more hands-on approach to managing their WordPress site, and they had a Synology NAS available but were unsure how to use it to host their website.
Proposed Solution
The solution I proposed was to leverage the client’s existing Synology NAS to host their WordPress site. By utilizing Docker on the NAS, we could create a containerized environment for WordPress and its database, allowing more control over the hosting. Additionally, using Cloudflare Tunnel, we could make the website globally accessible under the client’s custom domain, without exposing the NAS directly to the internet.
Implementation Steps
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Setting up Docker on Synology NAS:
- Installed Docker through Synology’s Package Center.
- Pulled the official WordPress and MariaDB Docker images.
- Configured the necessary Docker Compose file to spin up the WordPress container with a MariaDB backend.
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Migrating the WordPress Site:
- Exported the WordPress site’s content and database from the third-party hosting provider.
- Imported the database to the new MariaDB container and set up the WordPress files within the Docker container.
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Configuring Cloudflare Tunnel:
- Set up a Cloudflare Tunnel to securely expose the WordPress container to the internet.
- Configured the client’s custom domain on Cloudflare, allowing their WordPress site to be accessed globally.
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Testing and Validation:
- Tested the website to ensure smooth migration, including performance checks, database connections, and domain configuration.
- Ensured the website was fully operational with SSL/TLS security provided by Cloudflare.
Project Outcome
By migrating their WordPress site to their local Synology NAS, the client gained full control over the hosting environment, which allowed them to manage updates and maintenance more easily. The integration with Cloudflare Tunnel ensured that their website remained secure and accessible from anywhere using their custom domain.
This solution provided a cost-effective way for the client to manage their WordPress site independently, while also ensuring high availability and security for their online presence.
Client Review
Client: Business Owner
Feedback:
Great Service, I was thoroughly impressed with the swift and professional setup of my Synology NAS Server. The NAS is running smoothly, and the value for the investment is clear. I appreciate your expertise and would recommend your services to others seeking tech solutions.
Thank you
Rating: ★★★★★