Table of contents

From the directoryUsing admin uploadFTPFAQsGetting startedAdditional resources

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How to install WordPress plugins: 3 methods

Enhancing your website’s functionality and performance is essential, and utilizing plugins is a significant step in that direction.

(Please note that plugins are only available for WordPress.org sites, not WordPress.com. If you’re looking to add new features, boost SEO, or improve security, understanding how to install plugins is vital.)

Let’s look at three effective methods for adding plugins: directly from the WordPress directory, manually via the admin upload, and using FTP.

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1. How to install WordPress plugins from the WordPress directory

Installing WordPress plugins from the directory is straightforward and can significantly enhance your website’s functionality. Follow these steps to get started:

Log into your WordPress dashboard: Navigate to your website’s URL followed by ‘/wp-admin’ and enter your credentials. Ensure you have the right permissions to make changes to plugins.
Navigate to the plugins section: In the dashboard, find the ‘Plugins’ option on the left-hand menu and click on it. Here, you can see all currently installed plugins and their status.
Click on ‘Add New’: On the plugins page, click the ‘Add New’ button at the top to access the WordPress Plugin Directory. This section offers a wealth of options to enhance your site’s functionality.
Search for your desired plugin: Use the search bar to find the plugin you want. Browse through featured, popular, or recommended plugins, or type the name directly. Reading user reviews can also help in making informed decisions.
Install the plugin: Click the ‘Install Now’ button next to your chosen plugin. WordPress will automatically download and install it, making the process seamless.
Activate the plugin: After installation, click ‘Activate’ to enable the plugin on your site. Some plugins may require additional setup before you can fully utilize their features.

2. How to manually install WordPress plugins using the admin upload

Manually installing WordPress plugins is simple. Here’s how to do it using the admin upload method:

Download the plugin zip file: Download the plugin from a reputable source, ensuring the file is in .zip format. Always verify the source to avoid security issues.
Log into your WordPress admin dashboard: Access your dashboard by entering your website’s URL followed by ‘/wp-admin’ and logging in. Make sure to have your credentials handy for a smooth entry.
Navigate to the plugins section: Once logged in, find the ‘Plugins’ option in the left-hand menu and click on it. Then select ‘Add New’ to start the installation process.
Upload the plugin zip file: On the Add Plugins page, click the ‘Upload Plugin’ button at the top. Browse your computer for the downloaded .zip file, select it, and click ‘Install Now’. Ensure that the file is compatible with your current version of WordPress.
Activate the plugin: After installation, click ‘Activate’ to enable the plugin on your site. You may want to check the settings to customize its functionality according to your needs.

3. How to install WordPress plugins using FTP

Installing WordPress plugins using FTP (file transfer protocol) is reliable, especially if you encounter issues with standard installations. This method involves manually uploading plugin files to your WordPress directory through an FTP client. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Install an FTP client: Popular options include FileZilla and Cyberduck. Install your chosen client on your computer to facilitate file transfers efficiently.
Connect to your server: Use your FTP credentials, which can be obtained from your hosting provider, to securely connect to your server and manage files.
Navigate to the plugins directory: In your FTP client, go to the ‘wp-content’ directory, and then locate the ‘plugins’ folder where all your site’s plugins are stored.
Download the desired plugin: Obtain the plugin from the WordPress Plugin Repository. Extract the .zip file to access the necessary plugin folder for installation.
Upload the plugin folder: Using your FTP client, upload the extracted plugin folder to the ‘plugins’ directory on your server to make it available for activation.
Log into your WordPress admin dashboard: Navigate to the ‘Plugins’ section to see the newly uploaded plugin and check for any additional settings.
Activate the plugin: Click ‘Activate’ beneath the plugin’s name to enable its functionality on your site, enhancing your website’s features and performance.

This method is particularly useful for troubleshooting or when working with large plugins that may not upload correctly through the WordPress interface.

Plugin installation FAQs

Can I install plugins on free WordPress?

No, the free version of WordPress.com does not support the installation of custom plugins. If you need to use plugins, consider setting up a self-hosted WordPress.org site, which allows for complete control and the ability to add plugins for enhanced functionality.

How do I download an installed plugin from WordPress?

To download a plugin that is already installed, go to the ‘Plugins’ section in your WordPress dashboard. However, WordPress does not offer a direct option to download installed plugins. Instead, you can visit the plugin’s page in the WordPress Plugin Directory, search for the specific plugin, and click on the ‘Download’ button to get the ZIP file of the latest version. This is useful for backups or for installing the plugin on another site.

Next steps for installing WordPress plugins

WordPress.org is a powerful platform that powers over 40% of the web. This self-hosted version of WordPress allows complete control over your website, from customization options to the ability to install plugins that enhance functionality.

With an array of themes and plugins available, WordPress.org is ideal for creating a unique online presence, whether for a blog, portfolio, or e-commerce site. Before diving into plugin installation, ensure your WordPress.org account is set up correctly and that you are hosting your site on a reliable platform.

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