What is the process for updating a website built with Webflow after exporting the code and hosting it on your own servers? What are the options for handling form submissions on a self-hosted Webflow website? How can a back-end page be created for employees to make changes to the website? What happens to website designs if the Webflow subscription ends?
If you've built a website with Webflow and have exported the code to host it on your own servers, updating it requires a few steps. Here is the process:
1. Make changes in the Webflow Designer: If you need to update the website's design or content, you can do so within the Webflow Designer. This is the easiest and recommended way to make updates.
2. Export the code: Once you're done with the changes in the Designer, export the updated code from Webflow. This will provide you with a clean, updated version of your website's codebase.
3. Upload the updated code: Take the exported code and upload it to your own web hosting server. If you're using a hosting service, follow their instructions on how to upload the code. If you have a web developer or IT team managing your hosting, they can help you with this step.
4. Test and verify changes: After uploading the code, thoroughly test your website to ensure that the updates are working correctly. Check for any broken links, missing images, or other issues that may have occurred during the exporting or uploading process.
Form submissions on a self-hosted Webflow website can be handled in a few ways:
1. Webflow's form handling: If you continue to use Webflow's form handling feature, which sends form submissions to your Webflow account, you'll need to keep your Webflow subscription active. This allows you to receive and manage form submissions through Webflow's form dashboard.
2. Exported form handling: When exporting the code, you can choose to export form submissions to a custom URL. This means that instead of relying on Webflow's form handling, form submissions will be sent to a custom API endpoint or a script on your own server. You'll need to set up a backend solution to receive and process these form submissions.
To create a back-end page for employees to make changes to the website, you'll need to develop a custom content management system (CMS) or use an existing CMS solution. This will involve:
1. Setting up a database: You'll need to create a database to store the website's content, such as pages, blog posts, images, and any other data that needs to be managed or updated.
2. Creating a user authentication system: Implement a user authentication system to allow employees to log in securely and access the back-end page.
3. Building a back-end interface: Develop a user-friendly back-end interface where employees can make changes to the website's content. This interface should have the necessary features and permissions to manage different types of content.
When a Webflow subscription ends, several things happen to the website designs:
1. Websites hosted on Webflow servers: If you were using a Webflow hosting plan, your website will no longer be accessible once the subscription ends. This means that the website's design, content, and functionality will no longer be available to visitors.
2. Exported websites: If you exported the website code and hosted it on your own servers, the design and functionality won't be affected when the subscription ends. However, you'll no longer have access to the Webflow Designer or Editor, which makes it challenging to make future design or content updates without the help of a developer.
It's important to note that without an active Webflow subscription, you won't receive any updates, bug fixes, or new features from Webflow. Additionally, you'll lose access to Webflow's hosting infrastructure and support services. If you anticipate needing ongoing updates or support, it's recommended to maintain an active subscription or explore alternative solutions.