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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:
You are trying to register WPML in a local development environment using Docker containers for nginx, PHP, MySQL, etc., but encounter an error stating that the site key doesn't match.
Solution:
If you're experiencing this issue, it's likely because the URL of your local environment differs from the one registered with the site key. We recommend obtaining a new site key for the new URL. You can follow the instructions here to re-register: How to re-register a site key for a new URL.
Additionally, consider using the automatic WPML registration feature, which might be more suitable for your setup. Details can be found here: Automatic WPML Registration Using PHP.

If this solution does not apply to your case, or if it seems outdated, we highly recommend checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. Should you need further assistance, please open a new support ticket at WPML Support Forum.

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This topic contains 1 reply, has 0 voices.

Last updated by Bruno Kos 1 week, 4 days ago.

Assisted by: Bruno Kos.

Author Posts
May 9, 2025 at 8:22 pm #17017864

kaitlinG

Background of the issue:
I am trying to get WPML working in our developers' local environments. We are using a WordPress VIP local environment created by setting up Docker containers for nginx, PHP, MySQL, etc. The proxy endpoint is exposed to us, and we created a site key for it.

Symptoms:
When trying to register WPML for our local dev environments, it errors out and says the site key doesn't match.

Questions:
How can I register WPML for a local development environment?
Why does the site key not match when registering WPML in a local environment?

May 12, 2025 at 6:02 am #17021007

Bruno Kos
WPML Supporter since 12/2018

Languages: English (English ) German (Deutsch ) French (Français )

Timezone: Europe/Zagreb (GMT+02:00)

Hi,

If the URL is different, you need a different key as well:
https://wpml.org/faq/how-to-remove-the-this-site-is-registered-on-wpml-org-as-a-development-site-notice/#what-if-the-notice-still-appears-after-moving-to-production

So you need to follow this to re-register a key for the new URL.

You can also check this:
https://wpml.org/faq/automatic-wpml-registration-using-php-for-easy-moves-between-production-development-and-staging/

Maybe that would fit your setup.