A plugin is a piece of software that can be added to WordPress to extend its functionality. There are thousands of free and paid plugins available for WordPress. Before learning how to add one to your Website dashboard, you need to familiarize yourself with the term plugin.
What is a WordPress Plugin?
A WordPress plugin is a crucial component that can be installed on a WordPress website to enhance its functionality. It is essentially a set of code written in the PHP programming language, which can include scripts, stylesheets, and other resources.
By adding new features, modifying existing ones, or performing specific tasks, WordPress plugins allow site owners to customize their websites to meet their unique needs. With a vast array of both free and premium plugins available, individuals and organizations can easily find plugins that cater to their specific requirements.
Read: Essential WordPress Plugins
Why You Should Install Plugins
Plugins can enhance your website's functionality and capabilities.
Performing specialized tasks is possible by using specific types of plugins, such as creating contact forms or managing SEO.
They can add new features to your website that are not available in the core WordPress platform.
Plugins can improve your website's security, performance, and SEO.
You can easily find a plugin that suits your needs among the vast collection of both free and premium plugins available.
They offer a high degree of customization and flexibility, allowing you to tailor your website as per need.
Plugins can help you stay up-to-date with the latest web design and development trends.
Using plugins can aid in achieving your business objectives by boosting user engagement, increasing conversions, and driving revenue.
They are easy to install and use, even for those with little or no coding experience.
How to Add a Plugin in WP Admin
Log in to WP Admin and go to Plugins Screen
To add a plugin into your website, follow these simple steps.
The first step is to log in to your WP admin dashboard. Then hover over to Plugins and hit the Add New option from the submenu.
After that, you can install a plugin in two different ways:
Method 1- Install Plugin from WordPress Plugin Library
Method 2- Install Plugin by Uploading Them Directly
Method 1
Search for the Plugin
The next step is to search for the plugin you want to add. You can either search for a specific plugin by name or browse the plugin directory to find a suitable plugin.
To search for a plugin by name, simply enter the name of the plugin in the search bar and press enter from your keyboard.
Install and Activate the Plugin
Once you have found the plugin you want to add, click on the "Install Now" button to begin the installation process. WordPress will then download and install the plugin on your website.
After the installation is completed, you will see an "Activate" button in the same place. Click on it to make the plugin activate.
Method 2
Upload a Plugin from Your Drive
In the Add New page, click the Upload Plugins button on the screen.
Start browsing for the plugin in your drive by clicking the button Choose file. After selecting the plugin click the Install Now Button.
When the plugin gets installed in your WP admin dashboard, click on the Active button.
Configure the Plugin (Both Methods)
Once the plugin is activated, you can configure it to meet your needs. This will vary depending on the plugin you have installed. Some plugins may require you to enter some configuration settings, while others may work straight out of the box.
By following any of these methods, you'll be capable of installing a new plugin onto your WordPress website.
How to Update a Plugin
When a plugin requires an update, a notification will appear next to the "Plugins" option in the left-side menu. Click on "Plugins" to view all installed plugins.
Plugins in need of an update will display a notification, which includes a hyperlink to details about the new update and an "Update Now" button to proceed with the update.
How to Delete a Plugin
To permanently remove a plugin, navigate to the page displaying all your installed plugins by following the process mentioned above. Select the plugin you wish to delete. If it's currently active on your dashboard, click on the "Deactivate" button first.
After deactivating, the "Delete" button will become visible. Click on it, and a pop-up will appear asking for confirmation, such as "Are you sure you want to delete Pretty Links?" Click "OK" to permanently delete the plugin.
In Conclusion
Plugins offer unparalleled flexibility and customization, allowing users to create dynamic, engaging, and high-performing websites. However, it is important to exercise caution when selecting and installing plugins, as they can affect site security and performance. Nevertheless, with the right plugins and proper care, WordPress users can create powerful and dynamic websites that effectively serve their intended audience.