What Is WordPress: Essential Guide to Website Building

Frustrated with building a website that fits your needs? Finding the right platform can make all the difference. 

You’ve probably heard the word WordPress, but what is WordPress exactly? It's a powerful and versatile tool that makes website building easy for beginners and experts. 

Choosing the right platform can make all the difference, and WordPress stands out as a leading option. Its user-friendly interface, extensive customisation options, and supportive community make it the go-to choice for millions of users worldwide.

Let’s explore in detail how WordPress can help you build a website of your choice. 

What is WordPress?

WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) used to create websites and blogs. It powers over 40% of all websites on the internet.

History and Evolution of WordPress

WordPress was launched in 2003 by Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little. Initially, it was a simple blogging tool. Over the years, it has evolved into a full-fledged CMS. Today, it supports various websites, from e-commerce stores to personal blogs.

Key Features and Benefits of Using WordPress

What is WordPress known for? Its user-friendly features include but are not limited to

• Extensive theme and plugin library
• SEO-friendly structure
• Strong community support

These features make it easy for anyone to build and maintain a website.

WordPress.org Vs. WordPress.com

Overview of WordPress.org

WordPress.org is the self-hosted version. You download the WordPress software and host it on your server. This option provides more flexibility and control.

Features

• Full control over your website
• Access to all themes and plugins
• Ability to monetise your site

Flexibility and Customisation

WordPress.org offers unlimited customisation. You can modify code, install plugins, and choose any theme.

Costs Involved

While the WordPress software is free, you need to pay for hosting, domain registration, and premium themes or plugins.

Overview of WordPress.com

WordPress.com is a blog hosting service provider. They manage the hosting and maintenance for you. It’s ideal for beginners who want a simple setup.

Features

• Easy to use with minimal setup
• Hosting included
• Regular updates and backups managed by WordPress.com

Ease of Use and Setup

WordPress.com is straightforward to set up. It’s perfect for users with limited technical skills.

Pricing Plans

WordPress.com offers several plans, from free to premium. Higher-tier plans provide more features and customisation options.

How to Choose Between WordPress.org or WordPress.com?

Factors to Consider

When deciding between WordPress.org and WordPress.com, consider:

• Budget: WordPress.org requires more initial investment.
• Technical Skill Level: WordPress.com is easier for beginners.
• Purpose: WordPress.org offers more flexibility for complex sites.

Pros and Cons 

WordPress.org

• Pros: Complete control and extensive customisation.
• Cons: It requires technical knowledge and higher costs.

WordPress.com

• Pros: Easy setup, managed hosting.
• Cons: Limited customisation, less control.

Use Cases and Recommendations for Different Types of Users

• Beginners and Hobbyists: WordPress.com is a great start.
• Businesses and Developers: WordPress.org offers the flexibility needed for growth.

In summary, what is WordPress best for? It depends on your needs. Evaluate your budget, skills, and website goals to make the best choice.

How to Use WordPress?

Setting up Your Account (WordPress.com)

To start using WordPress.com, you need to create an account. 

Visit WordPress.com, click Get Started, and follow the prompts. 

You'll choose a plan and set up your profile.

Navigating the WordPress Dashboard

Once logged in, you’ll see the WordPress dashboard. This is your control center. It includes menus for posts, pages, media, and settings. Spend some time exploring the dashboard to familiarise yourself with the layout.

Basic Functionalities and Settings Overview

In the dashboard, you can create posts and pages, manage media files, and adjust site settings. Key settings include reading, writing, and discussion options. Make sure to configure these to match your needs.

How to Build a WordPress Website?

Here are the key steps to build WordPress website 

Select a WordPress Plan (WordPress.com)

WordPress.com offers several plans, from free to business options. The free plan has basic features, while premium plans offer more customisation and tools. 

Choose a plan that fits your budget and needs.

Set Up Your Domain Name and Hosting Provider

A domain name is your website’s address. Choose a memorable and relevant name. For WordPress.org, you need a hosting provider. 

Reliable options include Bluehost, Hostgator and SiteGround. After purchasing, link your domain to your hosting account. To run WordPress effectively, ensure your hosting provider supports:

• PHP version 7.4 or higher
• MySQL version 8.0 or higher, or MariaDB version 10.4 or higher
• HTTPS support
  

When choosing a hosting provider for your WordPress site, confirm they meet all these criteria for optimal performance.

Install WordPress

For WordPress.org, installation is required. Most hosting providers offer one-click installation. Alternatively, you can install it manually by downloading WordPress from WordPress.org and following their instructions.

Choose Your Theme

What is WordPress without a great theme? Themes determine your site's look. Go to the Appearance menu and select Themes. Browse available options and install one that matches your vision. Customise it to fit your style.

Add Posts and Pages to Your Website

Posts are for blog entries, while pages are static content like About and Contact pages. In the dashboard, select Posts or Pages and click Add New. 

Write your content and publish. Organise with categories and tags.

Customise Your Website

Use the WordPress Customiser to personalise your site. Access it through the Appearance menu. Here, you can change colors, fonts, and layouts. Add widgets to your sidebar or footer and create custom menus.

Install Plugins

Plugins extend your site’s functionality. In the dashboard, go to Plugins and click Add New. Search for plugins and install those you need. Essential plugins include Yoast SEO, Jetpack, and WooCommerce.

Optimise Your Website to Increase Page Speed

Website speed is crucial for user experience and SEO. Optimise images, use caching plugins like W3 Total Cache and minimise code. 

Regularly test your site’s speed with tools like Google PageSpeed Insights.

Get Inspired from WordPress Website Examples

Looking for inspiration? 

• Check out successful WordPress sites. 
• Study their design and functionality.
•  Implement similar strategies to enhance your site. 

Conclusion

The key takeaway is that WordPress is a versatile and powerful tool for building your website. We've covered what WordPress is, its main features, and the differences between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. 

With this knowledge, you're ready to choose the best option for your needs, set up your site, and customise it. 

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FAQs

What are WordPress limitations?

WordPress has some limitations, including concerns about scalability for very large sites, potential security vulnerabilities, and the need for regular maintenance and updates.

What is special about WordPress?

WordPress stands out because of its open-source nature, extensive plugin ecosystem, and large supportive community, making it highly customisable and versatile.

How many pages does WordPress allow?

WordPress allows you to create an unlimited number of pages. You can build as many pages as needed without any restrictions.