How to Install WordPress Plugins
Once you’ve installed WordPress, it’s time to install some plugins to increase your website’s functionality.
What is a WordPress plugin?
A WordPress plugin is a package of code that completes a function.
For example, some plugins allow you to create contact forms, while other plugins allow you to embed your social media feed on your website.
The benefit of using a plugin is that you don’t need to write the code. The standard code has already been written and turned in to a plugin you can install and customize.
In this step by step guide, we’ll walk through how to install free WordPress plugins and paid or premium plugins.
Install Free Plugins Using WordPress Plugin Search
You can install any free WordPress plugin from inside your website using the Plugin Search page.
- Log in to your secure WordPress login page.
2. Look for Plugins in the left-hand menu, right below Appearance. Click on Plugins.
3. Click on Add New at the top of the page.
4. Use the Search field to type in the name of plugin or the function (i.e. ‘contact forms’, ‘security’, ‘social media embed’)
5. After selecting the right plugin, click on Install Now.
6. Once installed, the Install Now button will change to Activate. Click on Activate to turn on the plugin.
7. Customize the plugin to your preference.
Install Plugins (Paid) in WordPress (Zip File)
If you want to use a paid or premium plugin, then you’ll need to install it manually.
The WordPress plugin search function is for free plugins only.
1. Purchase the plugin from the website of the developer.
2. Download the plugin as a zip file to your desktop or laptop.
3. Log in to your secure WordPress login page.
4. Look for Plugins in the left-hand menu, right below Appearance. Click on Plugins.
5. Click on Add New at the top of the page.
6. In the top left corner, click on Upload Plugin.
7. Upload the file and click Install and then click Activate on the next screen.
Conclusion
WordPress plugins are an easy way to add extra functionality to your website without the need to write code yourself or paying a web developer to write it.