WordPress Information

This guide gathers the essential WordPress information you need to get started. To install a WordPress themeThemeA collection of templates and styles that controls how your site looks., you must first have a working version of WordPress already installed. If you need help installing WordPress, follow the instructions in the WordPress Codex. Below are all the useful links to set up and learn your new site.

Essential WordPress Information and Links

• WordPress Codex – General information about WordPress and how to install it on your server.
• First Steps With WordPress With Classic Editor or First Steps with WordPress – A step-by-step guide through your WordPress website that shows how the different functions work and how to make your new site your own.
• FAQ New To WordPress – The most frequently asked questions about WordPress.
• First Site Guide – Easy to follow step-by-step guides, tutorials, video tutorials, and useful blog articles to help you get online and be successful.

What You Need Before Installing a Theme

Before you apply any theme, make sure your WordPress install is up to date and that you have admin access to the dashboard. A current version avoids compatibility issues and keeps your site secure. Once WordPress is ready, you can upload a theme from Appearance > Themes > Add New in just a few clicks.

To use a WordPress theme, you need a WordPress installation on your web server from Download WordPress.org.

If you want to use a theme on WordPress.com, then you must have a WordPress Business/eCommerce plan. With the Free, Personal, or Premium plan, WordPress.com does not allow you to install custom themes and pluginsPluginA package of code that adds features to a WordPress site without altering core files..

Self-Hosted vs WordPress.com

This is the most common point of confusion for new users. Self-hosted WordPress, from WordPress.org, gives you full control to install any theme or plugin you like. WordPress.com, on the other hand, only allows custom themes on its paid business tiers. Therefore, if your goal is to run a custom theme, a self-hosted install is the most flexible and recommended option.