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How to Export and Import Sliders in Smart Slider 3

27 threads Sep 9, 2025 Plugin → Smart slider 3

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Exporting and importing sliders is a common task for Smart Slider 3 users who want to move their work between websites or create backups. This guide explains the two primary export methods and how to use them correctly.

Understanding the Two Export Types

Smart Slider 3 offers two distinct export functions, each serving a different purpose. Confusing them is a common source of errors.

1. Export as .SS3 (For Importing Back into Smart Slider)

This is the standard method for moving a slider from one WordPress site to another. It creates a proprietary .ss3 file that contains all your slider data, including layers, settings, and slide content.

How to Export an .SS3 File:

  1. Navigate to Smart Slider 3 > Dashboard.
  2. Hover over the slider you want to export and click the Edit button (pencil icon).
  3. Inside the slider editor, click the Actions button (three dots).
  4. Select Export from the menu. This will download the .ss3 file.

How to Import an .SS3 File:

  1. On the new WordPress site, go to Smart Slider 3 > Dashboard.
  2. Click the New project button.
  3. In the window that appears, choose the Or Import Your Own Files option.
  4. Select your downloaded .ss3 file to import it.

Important Note: For a successful import, it is highly recommended that both the source and destination websites use the same version of Smart Slider 3 to avoid compatibility issues.

2. Export as HTML (For Use Outside of WordPress)

This function exports your slider as a standalone package of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, along with the images it uses. This is intended for use on static HTML websites or other platforms where Smart Slider 3 is not installed. This export cannot be imported back into the plugin.

How to Export as HTML:

  1. Edit your slider as described above.
  2. Click the Actions button.
  3. Select Export as HTML. This will download a .zip file containing all the necessary files to run the slider independently.

Troubleshooting Common Export/Import Issues

  • "No Import Option": The import function is accessed through the New project button, not from the main dashboard.
  • Bulk Export Creates a .ZIP File: When using the bulk action to export multiple sliders, the plugin will output a .zip file. Inside this ZIP archive, you will find the individual .ss3 files for each slider you selected.
  • Bulk Import is Not Available: Due to technical limitations, you can only import sliders one at a time. There is no functionality to bulk import multiple .ss3 files simultaneously.
  • Export Doesn't Work for PowerPoint: Neither export method will output your slides as JPEG images or a format compatible with PowerPoint. The exports are designed for web use only.

By understanding the difference between these two export methods, you can efficiently move your sliders between WordPress installations or deploy them on static sites.

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