Easily start using Wordpress.org for your business website! It can be a little overwhelming to understand all the moving parts within Wordpress, but I’m here to break it down for you. Plus, help you understand how to make Wordpress easier for you to use.
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Understanding WordPress.com vs WordPress.org
Before we start, it’s crucial to understand the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org. They are two different platforms, and many beginners often confuse the two. WordPress.com is ideal for bloggers who don’t intend to monetize their blogs. On the other hand, WordPress.org is the go-to platform for business owners or bloggers who want to monetize their blogs due to its extensive functionality. This guide is specifically about WordPress.org.
Choosing Your Website Host
The first step in setting up your WordPress.org site is choosing a website host. Think of your host as the neighborhood where your website lives. I recommend Flywheel or SiteGround, but there are dozens of other options out there. Once you’ve set up your hosting account, you can install WordPress and start building your site.
Selecting a Theme
Once WordPress is installed, the next step is to select a theme. WordPress offers many free themes, but they can be limited in functionality. There are also premium themes available that offer more creative freedom. Make sure to choose a theme that is widely used, well-known, and has good support.
Setting Up Your Pages and Posts
After installing your theme, it’s time to set up your pages and posts. WordPress has two different sections for this: posts are for your blog feed, and pages are for static content like your homepage, about page, and contact page. You’ll need to create a new page for each page you want on your website.
Using the WordPress Gutenberg Editor
When it comes to building your pages and posts, WordPress has its own built-in editor called Gutenberg. It allows you to have columns, drag and drop things, and add different elements. However, it can be a bit limiting, which is why many people opt for a page builder like Divi, Elementor, or Beaver Builder.
Enhancing Functionality with Plugins
Plugins are like apps for your website. They add extra functionality and can be both free and premium. You can find a wide range of plugins within WordPress, or you can search for them online. Remember to keep your plugins up-to-date to ensure your site runs smoothly and securely.
Conclusion:
That’s your overview of WordPress for beginners. Remember, you have your host, theme, pages, posts, and plugins to build your website. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Happy WordPressing!