By Introduction to WordPress:
WordPress, which was founded in 2003, is a powerful content management system (CMS) that enables users to easily create and manage websites. Millions of websites all over the world use this highly customizable and user-friendly CMS. WordPress can be used to create everything from simple blogs to complex e-commerce platforms and corporate websites. It allows website owners to easily create and edit content, manage media files, organize pages and posts, and control various aspects of their site’s design and functionality.
WordPress is built on PHP and uses a MySQL database to store website content. In WordPress, themes are responsible for a website’s overall appearance and feel, whereas plugins add extra functionality and tailor websites to specific needs such as contact forms, social media integration, website optimization, and e-commerce capabilities.
In this WordPress guide, we have provided a comprehensive roadmap for learning WordPress from scratch. We’ve outlined the steps and resources you’ll need to guide you through the learning process and master the various aspects of WordPress. You will be well-equipped to create, manage, and optimize dynamic and engaging websites using the powerful WordPress platform if you follow this complete WordPress roadmap and continue to expand your knowledge and skills.
Types of WordPress CMS:
When it comes to building a website using WordPress, you have two main types to consider: WordPress.org and WordPress.com. Let’s explore the differences between these two platforms:
1. WordPress.org
WordPress.org is a self-hosted solution that provides you with the freedom to customize and control every aspect of your website. You have complete access to the WordPress software and can install it on your own hosting server. This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred hosting provider, customize the website’s design and functionality using themes and plugins, and even modify the underlying code if needed. With WordPress.org, you have the opportunity to fully monetize your website and implement advanced features to suit your specific requirements.
2. WordPress.com
In contrast, WordPress.com is a hosted platform that takes care of the technical aspects of running a website. It offers a simplified interface and handles tasks like hosting, security, and updates, making it an ideal choice for beginners or users who prefer a hassle-free experience. While WordPress.com provides a range of themes and plugins to choose from, customization options are more limited compared to WordPress.org. The available features depend on the pricing plan you choose, and monetization options may have certain restrictions.
The blog will use WordPress.org because it provides more flexibility and control over the design and functionality of the website, as discussed above.
WordPress Installation:
There are two primary methods to get started with WordPress:
- Using Local Server
- Using Hosting Platform
Method 1: Installing WordPress on Local Server:
Installing WordPress on a local server allows you to build and test your website offline before making it live. This is ideal for developers or individuals who want to experiment with themes, plugins, and website customization without affecting their live site. Here’s a general overview of the process:
Step 1: Choose a local server environment:
Popular options include XAMPP (for Windows, macOS, and Linux), MAMP (for macOS), or WampServer (for Windows). Download and install the appropriate server software for your operating system.
Step 2: Set up the local server:
Launch the server software and start the necessary services (Apache and MySQL). This will create a local web server and database on your computer.
Step 3: Download WordPress:
Visit the official WordPress website (wordpress.org) and download the latest version of WordPress.
Step 4: Extract and move the WordPress files:
Unzip the downloaded WordPress file and move the entire contents to the appropriate folder within your local server’s document root directory.
Step 5: Create a database:
Access the server’s control panel and find the database management tool (e.g., phpMyAdmin). Create a new database and take note of the database name, username, and password.
Step 6: Configure the wp-config.php file:
Rename the “wp-config-sample.php” file in the WordPress directory to “wp-config.php”. Open the file and enter the database details you created in the previous step.
Step 7: Run the WordPress installation:
Open a web browser and navigate to “localhost” or “127.0.0.1” followed by the folder where you installed WordPress. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the WordPress installation.
Method 2: Installing WordPress on Hosting Platform:
Installing WordPress on a hosting platform allows you to create a live website accessible to the public. Here’s a general overview of the process:
Step 1:Choose a hosting provider:
Select a reputable hosting company that suits your needs in terms of pricing, performance, features, and customer support. Examples include Hostinger, Bluehost, SiteGround, or DreamHost.
Step 2: Register a domain name:
If you don’t already have a domain name (e.g., www.tachfocus.hometrendz.pk), register one either through your hosting provider or a separate domain registrar.
Step 3: Set up a hosting account:
Sign up for a hosting account with your chosen provider. Follow the instructions to set up your account and make any necessary payments.
Step 4: Access the hosting control panel:
Log in to the hosting control panel that your hosting company has provided. This may be cPanel, Plesk, or a custom control panel.
Step 5: Find the “WordPress” or “Website” installer:
Look for a tool like Softaculous or QuickInstall within the control panel. These tools offer easy, one-click installations of WordPress.
Step 6: Run the WordPress installer:
Click on the WordPress installer tool and follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll be prompted to enter basic information such as your website name, admin username, password, and email address.
Step 7: Complete the installation:
After submitting the installation details, the installer will create the necessary database and install WordPress on your hosting account. Once the process is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation message.
Step 8: Access your WordPress dashboard:
Navigate to your domain name (e.g., www.tachfocus.hometrendz.pk) and append “/wp-admin” to the URL. Enter the admin username and password you set during the installation process to access your WordPress dashboard.
By following the appropriate method based on your needs, you’ll be able to successfully install WordPress either on a local server for development purposes or on a hosting platform for a live website. Remember to regularly update WordPress, themes, and plugins.
Conclusion:
In this first lesson of the WordPress beginner’s guide, we discussed the introduction, application, and significance of WordPress, as well as its two main types, wordpress.org and wordpress.com, and the entire installation process via local server installation or hosting platform method.
The following lesson will go over the fundamentals of WordPress, including key components such as themes, templates, and plugins, as well as basic terminologies such as pages, posts, widgets, and menus, as well as the various user roles in WordPress.