Managing multiple WordPress websites is a common challenge for developers, agencies, and power users. One task that comes up repeatedly is moving plugins from one site to another. Traditionally, this required FTP access, manual file downloads, and re-uploading — a process that is slow and error-prone.
Fortunately, there is now a much simpler way. In this guide, you will learn exactly how to transfer WordPress plugins between sites without FTP, using a free tool called Transfer Press.
Why Avoid FTP for Plugin Transfers?
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a legacy method that comes with several drawbacks:
- Requires an FTP client like FileZilla to be installed
- You need server credentials, which are not always readily available
- Downloading and re-uploading large plugin folders is slow
- Risk of file corruption or incomplete transfers
- Not beginner-friendly
If you are managing client sites or staging environments, these obstacles add unnecessary friction. There is a better way.
The Easiest Way: Use Transfer Press
Transfer Press is a free WordPress plugin available in the official WordPress Plugin Directory. It lets you download any installed plugin as a ZIP file directly from your WordPress dashboard — no FTP, no cPanel, no command line.
Step 1: Install Transfer Press on the Source Site
- Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard on the site with the plugin you want to transfer
- Go to Plugins → Add New
- Search for Transfer Press
- Click Install Now, then Activate
Step 2: Download the Plugin as a ZIP
- Go to Plugins → Installed Plugins
- Find the plugin you want to transfer
- Click the Download ZIP button added by Transfer Press
- Save the ZIP file to your computer
Step 3: Install the Plugin on the Destination Site
- Log in to the destination WordPress site
- Go to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin
- Upload the ZIP file you just downloaded
- Click Install Now, then Activate
💡 That’s it. No FTP, no server access, no technical knowledge required. The entire process takes under two minutes.
When Would You Need to Transfer WordPress Plugins?
Here are some common scenarios where this method is extremely useful:
- Moving a plugin from a staging site to a live site
- Copying a custom or premium plugin to a client’s website
- Setting up a new WordPress site that mirrors an existing one
- Backing up a specific plugin before updating or deleting it
- Sharing a plugin with a colleague who does not have access to your server
Is It Safe to Transfer Plugins This Way?
Yes. Transfer Press downloads the exact plugin files directly from your WordPress installation, producing a standard ZIP file identical to what you would get from the plugin developer. The plugin does not transmit your files through any third-party server — everything happens locally within your WordPress dashboard.
Of course, always ensure your plugins are from trusted sources and that you are licensed to use them on multiple sites if applicable.
Benefits of Using Transfer Press Over Other Methods
- 100% free — no premium plan required
- Works entirely inside the WordPress dashboard
- No additional software or server credentials needed
- Compatible with WordPress 5.2 and above
- Works for any installed plugin, including custom-built ones
Final Thoughts
Transferring WordPress plugins between sites does not have to be complicated. With Transfer Press, you can skip the FTP setup entirely and move plugins in just a few clicks. Whether you are a developer managing dozens of sites or a site owner setting up a new project, this tool will save you significant time and effort.
Download Transfer Press for free from the WordPress Plugin Directory: https://wordpress.org/plugins/transfer-press/