If you're new to using WordPress, you may have a question: what is a WordPress plugin? Reading the WordPress manuals, you probably see the word everywhere. And even if you've already installed the software, you may still be unsure what a plugin is and what it's for.
Plugins are essential for enhancing the functionality of your WordPress site. In this guide, you'll learn what a WordPress plugin is, what it does, and find answers to other frequently asked questions related to the topic.
What is a WordPress plugin, and how does it work?
A WordPress plugin is a piece of code that is 'embedded' into your WordPress site. Simply put, it's an extension to your site that modifies and enhances the core features of WordPress.
Rather than editing the original code, using plugins is the best solution for enhancing WordPress features. It's easier to download and install plugins than to customise a long set of codes. Working with code is a difficult task.
With plugins, all you have to do is 'plug in' additional codes to modify the original ones. When the changes are no longer needed, you can "disable" them by disabling the plugin.
The great thing about WordPress is that there are thousands of pre-designed plugins available. Using plugins correctly will not only increase the functionality and usability of your site, but also improve your workflow.
What can a plugin do?
Plugins are modifiers that turn an ordinary blog into a website of any form and functionality. With a few simple steps plugins will turn your website into an e-shop, magazine, portfolio, learning management system whatever you can think of!
For example, if you're making an online shop - WooCommerce is your new best friend. Want to make a website for a booking system? Check out Bookly.
Maybe you're a photographer who wants to showcase your work on your website? The Envira Gallery plugin is the perfect choice.
While some plugins will completely transform your site, others act as simple changes behind the scenes. You may not see it change, but the plugins optimize the site.
For example, you can add WPSmush to compress your images. W3 Total Cache will improve the performance of your site. Plugins such as WordFence will improve your site's security.
Where can I find plugins for WordPress?
There are several places where you can find WordPress plugins. However, be careful where you choose where to download plugins. Plugins released by unreliable developers can be detrimental to your site.
The WordPress directory is the best place to find plugins. You can choose from over 50,000 plugins.
You can also invest in buying premium plugins. There are WordPress plugin marketplaces that provide premium plugins, such as Code Canyon, MOJO Marketplace or Creative Market.
To install plugins from the WordPress directory, you can go to Plugins - Add New in the admin panel.
How to install plugins for WordPress
There are three ways to install plugins. First, you can install it directly through the WordPress directory. Second, you can upload a .zip plugin file to your site. Finally, you can upload plugins via FTP.
Free or Premium Plugins
Since there are free and paid plugins, you may ask yourself which one you should choose. Do free plugins only work for short-term purposes? Are premium plugins better at supporting your future growth?
Well, if you have to pay more, it doesn't mean you'll get better quality. There are hundreds of free plugins that offer premium quality. So if you simply can't afford to pay for a premium plugin, you can always find a free option.
Here are some points to consider when choosing between a free and a paid plugin
Features: While there are many free plugins available in the WordPress repository, some key features may only be available in their professional version. Double check whether you really need the features or not. If no free plugins provide the required option, you need to upgrade your plugin to premium.
Support: Premium plugins usually offer ongoing support. So if your plugin is not working properly, or if you need advice on how to use it, you can contact support for help. With most free plugins, you will have to do the research yourself.
Documentation files: Paid plug-ins usually come with documentation files. These files are similar to a handbook. You can find how to configure all functions in the plugin and possibly some settings to optimise it.
Before installing plugins in WordPress
Before installing any plugins, there are a few things you need to consider.
First, you need to know what your site really needs. Don't go to a WordPress repository without knowing what you'll need, and don't install everything you like. This is inefficient and time-consuming.
Secondly, research the internet for plugin recommendations. This step is useful if you already know what you need, but don't know which plugins will help you achieve your goals.
Finally, you need to check the plugin's compatibility with your WordPress version and theme. Some plugins may not support an older or newer version of WordPress. And if your theme doesn't support the plugin of your choice, installing it can cause serious problems.
Why can't I add plugins to my WordPress?
Some newbies aren't aware that there are two versions of WordPress: WordPress.com and WordPress.org. While the .org version gives you the freedom to use any plugin you want, the .com version does not.
Only users who have purchased the WordPress.com Business Plan can add plugins to their sites. However, the number of plugins available for installation is limited.
Can too many plugins harm my website?
Technically, the number of plugins installed has no effect on the performance of your site. However, poorly coded plugins can cause errors or slow down your site.
Remember one thing: everything you add to your site will take up your disk space. So if you install a huge number of plugins, you will run out of space sooner.
What's more, some plugins can conflict with each other and cause unwanted problems on your site. So choose a sufficient number of necessary plugins and use them.
Conclusion
In short, if it weren't for plugins, WordPress wouldn't be as powerful as it is today. Plugins enhance the functionality of your site, protect it and generally maximise its potential.
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