Change Root site

[WilfiR]

Hi ,

I have  a root site which isn't using the modern UI, I've created a new communications site. which I would like to set as my root site.

I'm am worried about making this change as I have a number of subsites which currently hang off the current root site. 

Can I change the root site without impacting on the existing subsites? 

Thanks

[#2]

Hello @WilfiR 

see more informations here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sharepoint/modern-root-site

This item is listed under limitations https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sharepoint/modern-root-site#limitations :

• Replacing the root site with another site replaces the entire site collection with the new site collection. If your current root site has subsites, they'll be archived.

Best, Dave

[#3]

Thanks - if the subsites are archived, can I edit their URL to hang off the new root site?

[#4]

Hi @Wildlifer780 

you need to move it, best with third party tools like sharegate.

Best, Dave

[#5]

Thanks - could I simply edit the url to reflect the root site change?

[#6]

How does a root site change impact on sites linked to Teams Channels / Groups?

[#7]

Hi @Wildlifer780 

it will automatically create redirects. Also in the article:

- If you disabled site redirects, you'll need to update sharing links and any apps or files (like the OneDrive sync app and OneNote files) to refer to the new URL.

Best, Dave

[#8]

Thanks @David Mehr 

[#9]

Hi wilfiR, I want to clarify that you can make a modern user interface by replacing your classic root site with a modern root site using SharePoint admin center/PowerShell. But after swapping, the subsites within your current root site will be archived.
Furthermore, get to know more about site swapping by taking a glance at this blog.
https://m365scripts.com/microsoft365/a-complete-guide-on-how-to-replace-the-root-site-in-sharepoint-...