What Is WordPress and How To Use It?

February 1, 2025

What is WordPress?

More than 40% of all websites on the internet are powered by WordPress, making it one of the most widely used content management systems (CMS) available today. WordPress offers an easy-to-use platform with extensive customization options, whether to create a personal blog, an eCommerce store, or a business website.

WordPress is open-source software that allows users to build and manage websites without advanced coding skills. It offers two versions:

1) WordPress.com – A hosted solution where WordPress manages everything for you, including hosting and security.

2) WordPress.org – A self-hosted option that provides full control over your website, allowing you to install custom plugins, and themes, and modify the site’s code.

Is WordPress Free?

Yes, you may download and use WordPress for free. However, building a website with WordPress may require purchasing a domain, hosting services, premium themes, and plugins.

How to Use WordPress?

Using WordPress involves several steps, from installation to customization and management. Here is a detailed how-to for getting started:

• Choose WordPress Hosting

A web hosting provider is required to operate a WordPress website.  Some popular WordPress hosting providers include:

1) Hostinger WordPress – Affordable hosting with excellent performance

2) Bluehost – Recommended by WordPress.org

3) SiteGround – Known for its speed and security

4) GoDaddy WordPress Hosting – Ideal for beginners

• Install WordPress

Most hosting providers offer a one-click WordPress download and installation process. If you’re installing WordPress manually, follow these steps:

1) Download WordPress from WordPress.org.

2) Upload the files to your web server.

3) Create a MySQL database and user.

4) Run the WordPress installation script by visiting your website URL.

• WordPress Login and Dashboard

Once installed, just go to yourdomain.com/wp-admin to view and access your website’s dashboard easily. Enter your credentials to log in.

After logging in, you’ll be taken to the WordPress dashboard, where you can manage content, install themes, and add plugins.

• Choosing WordPress Themes

WordPress themes determine your website’s design and layout. You can browse thousands of free and premium WordPress themes in the WordPress Theme Directory or purchase one from third-party marketplaces like ThemeForest.

To install a theme:

1) Go to Appearance > Themes in your dashboard.

2) Click Add New and search for a theme.

3) Click Install, then Activate.

• Adding WordPress Plugins

WordPress plugins extend the functionality of your website. Some must-have plugins include:

1) Yoast SEO – Yoast SEO is a search engine optimization tool.

2) Elementor – A drag-and-drop page builder.

3) WooCommerce – For eCommerce functionality.

4) Jetpack – Security and performance enhancements.

5) UpdraftPlus – For backups.

To install a plugin:

1) Go to Plugins > Add New.

2) Search for the plugin you need.

3) Click Install Now, then Activate.

• Creating Content

WordPress makes it easy to create content through Posts (for blogs) and Pages (for static content like About and Contact pages).

To create a post:

1) Go to Posts > Add New.

2) Enter a title and write your content.

3) Add images, categories, and tags.

4) Click Publish.

To create a page:

1) Go to Pages > Add New.

2) Enter the page title and content.

3) Click Publish.

• Customizing Your WordPress Website

You can personalize your site by navigating to Appearance > Customize, where you can:

1) Change the site title and tagline

2) Set a homepage layout

3) Customize colors and fonts

4) Add widgets and menus

Read Also: Ways to Make Your WordPress Website Mobile-Friendly

• How to Backup a WordPress Site?

Regular backups are essential for website security. You can back up your WordPress site manually or use plugins like UpdraftPlus.

To back up manually:

1) Download a copy of your website files via FTP.

2) Export your database using phpMyAdmin.

• How to Duplicate a Page in WordPress

Duplicating a page can save time when creating similar content. You can use plugins like Duplicate Page or manually copy and paste the content into a new page.

• How to Use WordPress with GoDaddy

GoDaddy provides a simple WordPress setup. You can:

1) Purchase a hosting plan.

2) Use GoDaddy’s one-click WordPress installation.

3) Customize your site using themes and plugins.

Wix vs WordPress: Which One to Choose?

Both Wix and WordPress are popular website-building platforms. Here’s a comparison:

Feature	WordPress	Wix
Flexibility	High	Moderate
Ease of Use	Moderate	High
Cost	Varies	Fixed monthly fees
SEO	Advanced	Basic
Customization	Extensive	Limited

WordPress is ideal for users looking for full control and scalability, while Wix is better for beginners who want a simple drag-and-drop solution.

• Is WordPress Easy to Use?

For beginners, WordPress has a learning curve, but with thousands of online tutorials and support forums, it’s easy to get started. The platform offers flexibility for both beginners and advanced developers.

Conclusion

WordPress is a powerful and versatile platform that allows anyone to create a website, whether for a blog, business, or online store. With the right WordPress hosting, themes, and plugins, you can build a professional-looking website in no time. While there’s a learning curve, the flexibility and scalability make WordPress the top choice for web development.