Powered By Network Solutions: WordPress - How to Install a Plugin
How to Install a WordPress Plugin
- Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
- Go to Plugins.
- Click on Add New.
- Use the screen that appears to find a plugin of your choice.
- Click Install Now for the plugin you want to install.
- Click Activate to turn the plugin on.
- Based on the plugin, you may need to configure the plugin further to use it with your WordPress site.
PRO-TIPS WHEN SELECTING A PLUGIN
- Compatible with your version of WordPress: Select a plugin that has been tested and verified to work with your WordPress version to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance with your core WordPress files.
- Last Updated: Select a plugin that is being maintained and updated by the plugin’s developer. An outdated plugin may not work or function correctly with your updated WordPress version or theme.
- Active Installations: A plugin’s popularity often signals that others have found it helpful and reliable; however, remember that newer plugins might still be valuable even if they haven’t gained widespread recognition.
- Star Rating: Look at the plugin's rating and the number of reviews. A 5-star rating with only 1 review is different from a 4.5-star rating with 633 reviews.
How to Manually Install a WordPress Plugin
Important: Plugins downloaded directly from the internet typically come in a compressed zip file. You can unzip the file on your local computer before uploading it, or unzip it after uploading it.
- Locate and download the plugin of your choice.
- Connect to your hosting files FTP: How to Connect to Your Website.
- Upload your plugin file(s) into the /wp-content/plugins/ folder.
- Log in to your WordPress Dashboard and activate the plugin.
Want to learn more about WordPress
WordPress: Tutorial Videos: To help you easily grasp the basics of creating a WordPress website, we have created several free tutorial videos. These videos were designed to be followed in order, but you are welcome to view whichever one best suits your needs.
You can always check out WordPress.org and browse their codex or online help forums.
Support for Plugins
If you encounter any issues during the installation of a WordPress plugin, please contact us for assistance.
If you have any questions about the plugin's functionality, we highly recommend that you contact the plugin developer, as they will be best equipped to assist you. The developer's contact information is listed on the plugin's page at WordPress.org.
Prior to installing and activating any plugin, we strongly encourage you to consider backing up your WordPress website and researching the plugin to see if it may have compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or the WordPress version associated with your site.