Add Custom Domain and support HTTPS in local WordPress development with Studio

WordPress Studio continues to evolve to provide an even more powerful and flexible experience in creating local websites, and in the latest version 1.3.9, it has added the feature that many have been waiting for:Custom Domain settings and support for secure connections via HTTPS

What is Studio?

Studio is a local WordPress development tool that is free and open source. It is designed to be lightweight and user-friendly, supporting workflows for both creating and expanding WordPress websites without the hassle of complex installations.

Why do we need a Custom Domain and HTTPS?

In developing a local WordPress websiteSimulating an environment that closely resembles the actual server is important.

Many plugins or themes may require a specific domain or connection via HTTPS to function correctly.

Previously, Studio used localhost and port for access, which might limit testing capabilities, but now you can:

• Set a custom domain name, such as my-site.wp.local
• Test features that require a real domain.
• Develop a secure website with HTTPS.
• Simulate the environment to be closer to the real thing.

How to enable Custom Domain and HTTPS in Studio

Create or edit a website in Studio

Go to the Settings tab and click the Edit site or Create new site button.

Open advanced settings

In the window that appears, select the Advanced settings option.

Enable Custom Domain and HTTPS

• Enable "Use custom domain"
• Set a domain name that ends with .local (e.g., my-site.wp.local)
• If you want to connect securely, enable "Enable HTTPS"

Save settings

• Click "Add site" or "Save" and allow Studio to modify the hosts file on your system.
• Studio will automatically install the Root Certificate Authority for HTTPS.
• For macOS users, you may need to install the certificate manually (see instructions in the documentation).

Start using the set domain.

What's next for Studio?

The WordPress team is continuously developing Studio based on feedback from real users.The Custom Domain and HTTPS features are just the beginning — more features are coming soon.