How to Install WordPress Plugin

Wondering how to install WordPress plugins on your new site? Here is a step-by-step guide for your convenience.

Have you ever wanted to add extra functionality to your WordPress website?

Well, look no further!

In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the process of installing a WordPress plugin. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this step-by-step guide will help you enhance your website with just a few clicks.

Preparing for Installation

Before diving into the installation process, there are a few things you need to consider:

1. Research: Start by exploring the vast collection of plugins available in the official WordPress Plugin Directory or reputable third-party websites. Read reviews, check ratings, and ensure that the plugin is compatible with your current version of WordPress.
2. Backup: It’s always wise to create a backup of your website before installing any new plugins. While most plugins are harmless, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Check Compatibility: Verify if the plugin you intend to install is compatible with your theme and other active plugins. Some plugins may conflict with each other or have compatibility issues that could affect your website’s performance.
4. Update WordPress: Make sure you are running the latest version of WordPress before proceeding with the plugin installation. Updates often contain bug fixes and security patches that can prevent potential conflicts during installation.

Installing a Plugin from the Official WordPress Plugin Directory

Now that you’re ready to take the plunge and add some awesome features to your website, let’s install a plugin from the official WordPress Plugin Directory:

1. Accessing Plugins: Login to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to “Plugins” on the left-hand menu.
2. Click “Add New”: On the top-left corner of the Plugins page, click on “Add New.”
3. Search for Your Desired Plugin: In the search bar on the right side of the page, type in keywords related to the functionality you’re looking for in a plugin (e.g., “contact form,” “SEO,” “social media sharing,” etc.). Hit Enter or click the search icon.
4. Review Plugins: Browse through the search results and click on the plugin that catches your eye. Take a moment to read the description, check ratings, and reviews to ensure it meets your requirements.
5. Install the Plugin: Once you’ve found the perfect plugin, click on the “Install Now” button next to its name.
6. Activate the Plugin: After installation is complete, click on “Activate” to enable the plugin’s functionality on your website.

Installing a Plugin from a Third-Party Source

Sometimes, you may come across a premium or custom plugin that is not available in the official WordPress Plugin Directory. Here’s how you can install such plugins:

1. Downloading the Plugin: Obtain the plugin files from a reliable source as instructed by the developer or provider. The file will typically be in .zip format.
2. Accessing Plugins: Login to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to “Plugins” on the left-hand menu.
3. Click “Add New”: On the top-left corner of the Plugins page, click on “Add New.”
4. Upload Plugin: At the top of this page, instead of searching for a plugin in WordPress’s directory, click on “Upload Plugin.”
5. Choose File: Click on “Choose File” and select the .zip file you downloaded earlier from your computer.
6. Install and Activate: Click on “Install Now.” Once installed successfully, activate it by clicking on “Activate.”

Install WordPress Plugin Using FileZilla

This is another method which is very useful when you couldn’t install WordPress plugin using WordPress dashboard. You simply download the WordPress plugin from WordPress plugin library, unzip it and upload it to your WordPress plugin library using FTP software or cPanel. Access the path (/wp-content/plugins/) and upload files there.

The above screenshot is of FTP software known as FileZilla. Once you have uploaded, then you would need to click on the Plugins tag in your WordPress admin panel. You will see the plugin you just uploaded. Click on the Activate button and you are done.

Conclusion

Congratulations!

You’ve successfully learned how to install WordPress plugins like a pro. Remember, installing plugins can greatly extend your website’s functionality and enhance user experience, but be cautious not to overload your site with unnecessary plugins that may slow down performance or cause conflicts.

Choose well-reviewed plugins from reputable sources, keep them up-to-date, and regularly evaluate their necessity for optimal results.

Now go ahead and explore the vast world of WordPress plugins – there’s something out there for everyone! Happy plugin hunting!