WordPress is a powerful, free, and open-source content management system (CMS) that allows you to create, manage, and modify websites without needing extensive technical knowledge. It’s highly versatile and can be used to build anything from personal blogs to complex business websites and online stores. Many people wonder, “what is WordPress used for?” The platform is primarily used to design websites, manage content, and enable eCommerce, thanks to its flexibility.
Is WordPress free? Yes, the core software is free, but you will need hosting and a domain name to launch your site. To get started, how to use WordPress involves choosing a hosting provider, installing WordPress, and customising your site. So, what is WordPress and how does it work? It simplifies website creation and management.
What is WordPress?
WordPress is a free and open-source content management system (CMS) that allows anyone to easily create and manage websites. It was launched in 2003 by Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little as a new version of the b2/cafelog blogging tool. WordPress has developed from a simple blogging platform into a powerful website builder. It is released under the GNU General Public License, which gives users the freedom to use, customise, and distribute the software as they wish.
Today, when people ask what is WordPress, they are talking about the world’s most popular CMS. It powers over 43.5% of all websites on the internet. The massive library of themes and plugins, combined with a strong global community, makes it a flexible and beginner-friendly platform for everything from blogs and portfolios to complex eCommerce stores.
Why Should You Use WordPress?
What is WordPress? Over 43.6% of all websites on the internet run on it, including major names like Microsoft and even the White House. But beyond the stats, what is WordPress? And more importantly, why should you consider using it for your next website?
Whether you are building a personal blog, a portfolio, an online store, or a corporate site, there are many reasons to choose WordPress. Let’s break down the biggest ones:
1. WordPress Is Free and Open Source
When people ask, “What is WordPress?” one of the best things to point out is that it is free and open-source. Unlike other platforms that charge a monthly fee just to use their builder, like Squarespace or Wix, WordPress software is completely free. However, you will still need to pay for hosting, but using WordPress itself will not cost anything.
Plus, being open source means developers around the world contribute to it constantly, creating new tools, features, and improvements. You also get access to thousands of free themes and plugins to customize your site.
2. WordPress Is Extensible and Customisable
Another reason why WordPress is such a popular choice is that the platform is incredibly extensible. Here you don’t need to be a coder to build something powerful. They have themes to help you customize the look of your site.
These plugins have extended your website’s functionality starting from SEO tools and contact forms to full eCommerce systems like WooCommerce. CMS comes with over 50,000 plugins and 5,000 free themes, where you can have options to build exactly what you need.
3. WordPress Is Easy to Install
WordPress is very easy to install, and it is easy to use. Most hosting providers let you install WordPress in just a few clicks. Many even preinstall it for you, so you can start building right away.
For example, with a hosting service like Kinsta, you can create a WordPress site easily by clicking “Add Site” in the dashboard. Tools like DevKinsta also let you install WordPress on your Mac or PC, so you can try things out safely without affecting your live site.
4. WordPress Is Incredibly Flexible
Wondering what WordPress is best used for? If you say the real answer is everything. WordPress started as a blogging platform, but now it has grown into a complete content management system (CMS). Today, you can use it to create:
- Blogs
- Business websites
- Online stores
- Portfolios
- Forums
- Membership sites
- Even social networks
The great thing about WordPress is that it will not limit you it will help your site grow. If you want to add a community feature? Just install bbPress or BuddyPress.
5. WordPress Has a Massive Support Community
Another big advantage of using WordPress is the huge amount of support available. If you ever get stuck, there’s no shortage of help:
- Thousands of blogs and tutorials to guide you.
- There is an active support forum for quick solutions.
- Facebook groups and online communities for advice.
- Freelancers and developers worldwide who can assist.
In short, when you ask, “What is WordPress?” you are really asking about one of the most widely supported platforms on the web.
Is WordPress Free?
Yes, WordPress is free to use. The software is open source and available for anyone to download from WordPress.org. This means you can build, customise, and manage a website without paying for the WordPress platform itself.
However, while the software is free, running a WordPress website still requires a few basic services. To launch a live site, you will need to purchase web hosting where your site files are stored and a domain name (your website’s address). These are separate costs and are not provided by WordPress directly. Optional expenses may include premium themes, plugins, or developer support, but there are also thousands of free options available.
How to Create a New Website on WordPress
If you are looking to create a website without needing to learn coding, WordPress is an excellent platform for you. It is a user-friendly content management system that powers over 43% of all websites. Whether you want to start a blog, build a business site, or create an online store, how to use WordPress is simple. Below are the basic steps to get started with WordPress:
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Get Hosting and Domain
To begin, you need a domain name, e.g., www.yoursite.com, and a hosting plan. Most hosting providers offer easy integration with WordPress. Some even provide one-click installation for WordPress, making this step simple.
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Install WordPress
After purchasing hosting, most providers will allow you to install WordPress with a few clicks. If you are not sure how to install WordPress, your hosting provider’s support will usually have a guide. Alternatively, you can install it manually by downloading it from WordPress.org.
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Log Into the Dashboard
Once WordPress is installed, you can access the admin dashboard by visiting www.yoursite.com/wp-admin. Here, you will be able to manage all aspects of your website, from content creation to design and settings.
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Choose a Theme
What is WordPress without a theme? The theme controls the overall appearance of your website. WordPress offers thousands of free and paid themes. To choose a theme, go to the “Appearance” section in the dashboard, click “Themes,” and select one that fits your needs.
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Customise Your Site
After selecting your theme, you can further customize it. Go to the “Customise” option under “Appearance” to tweak settings like colours, fonts, logo, and layout. Most themes offer easy-to-use customization options without needing to code.
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Create Content
Now, it is time to add content to your site. What is WordPress and how does it work? It allows you to create posts typically used for blogs and pages for static content like About or Contact pages. In the dashboard, navigate to “Posts” or “Pages” to add new content.
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Install Plugins
To extend the functionality of your WordPress site, you can install plugins. Plugins allow you to add features like contact forms, SEO tools, security measures, and more. Simply go to the “Plugins” section in the dashboard, search for plugins, and click “Install” to add them.
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Publish Your Site
Your site is ready to go live after customising your theme, adding content, and installing necessary plugins. You can publish your posts and pages and share your website with the world.
Type of Websites Can WordPress Make?
WordPress is a flexible platform that can be used to create a wide variety of websites. Here are some of the most popular types of websites you can build with WordPress:
1. Blogs
WordPress originally started as a blogging platform and remains one of the best options for creating a blog. As we have talked earlier in depth it comes with customisable themes, easy-to-use post editors, and built-in content management tools.
2. Business Websites
WordPress is great for small businesses and startups looking to create a professional, branded website. You can add features like service pages, team bios, and contact forms.
3. E-Commerce Stores
You can also add plugins like WooCommerce, and WordPress can easily transform into a fully functional online store, supporting product pages, payment gateways, inventory management, and more.
4. Portfolios
Whether you are a photographer, designer, writer, or artist, WordPress lets you showcase your work through customizable portfolio themes and galleries.
5. News Websites and Magazines
WordPress is perfect for content-heavy websites like news outlets or online magazines. It can handle multiple categories, posts, and even user-generated content with ease.
6. Membership Sites
You can create membership sites with restricted content using WordPress. Plugins like MemberPress allow you to manage subscriptions, member profiles, and access to premium content.
7. Forums
WordPress can be used to create online forums or communities. Plugins like bbPress or BuddyPress make it easy to set up discussion boards, user profiles, and social features.
8. Non-Profit Websites
Many non-profits use WordPress for their websites due to its ease of use and the availability of donation plugins. It allows you to display your mission, events, and donation options seamlessly.
9. Educational Websites (LMS)
WordPress, with the help of plugins like LearnDash or LifterLMS, can be used to create online courses and educational websites that allow you to sell courses, track progress, and interact with students.
10. Real Estate Websites
WordPress can be used to create property listing websites. Plugins like WP Property allow real estate agents to showcase properties, add search filters, and display detailed property listings.
11. Event Websites
Whether it is for a wedding, conference, or festival, WordPress can help you create an event website. Plugins can handle RSVPs, event schedules, ticket sales, and more.
12. Directories
WordPress allows you to create directory websites, whether for local businesses, listings of services, or niche categories. You can add custom search filters and submission forms for listing users.
13. Job Boards
You can create a job listing or recruitment site on WordPress. With plugins like WP Job Manager, employers can post job listings, and job seekers can apply directly.
14. Booking Systems
WordPress can be used for websites that require online booking. Whether you’re running a hotel, salon, or consulting service, you can integrate booking forms and payment options into your website.
What are WordPress plugins?
WordPress plugins are tools that extend the functionality of your website. It allows you to add specific features or enhance existing ones without needing to write code. For example, you can use plugins to add a contact form, improve website performance, or integrate external services like Google Analytics.
The official WordPress plugin repository contains over 59,000 free plugins, covering a wide range of features for different website needs. If you are looking for more advanced tools or specialised functionalities, you can also find premium plugins available on marketplaces like CodeCanyon.
To answer what is WordPress in the context of plugins, they are essential for making your WordPress site more versatile, as they allow you to easily add almost any feature you need, all with just a few clicks.
What are WordPress Themes?
WordPress themes are pre-designed templates that allow you to customise the design of your website without the need for coding. These themes control your site’s visual elements, including colour schemes, typography, and the layout of pages, blog posts, or product listings.
The official WordPress theme directory offers over 11,000 free themes suited for different types of websites, such as blogs, online stores, and corporate sites.
If you are looking for more advanced features, you can explore premium themes available on platforms like ThemeForest. These often come with added functionality and dedicated customer support to assist you with setup.
For beginners, Astra is an excellent choice for a WordPress theme. It is known for its fast performance and minimalist design, making it an ideal starter theme. If you’re curious about more options, check out our list of the best free WordPress themes.
Difference Between WordPress.org and WordPress.com
It is important to understand that WordPress.org and WordPress.com are two different platforms that cater to different user needs. Below is a table that outlines the key differences between WordPress.org and WordPress.com
|
Feature |
WordPress.org | WordPress.com |
|
Customizability |
It offers full control with access to thousands of themes and plugins. | It comes with limited customisation and the most themes and plugins require a premium plan. |
| Hosting | You must purchase hosting separately from a third-party provider. | Hosting is included with the subscription. |
| Pricing | The WordPress software is free, but hosting and a domain must be purchased. Hosting plans from providers like Hostinger range from ₹149 to ₹899/month. | Free for basic use; premium plans range from $5 to $63/month. |
| eCommerce | It has full eCommerce platform with plugins like WooCommerce. | It requires the Commerce plan ($63/month) to enable eCommerce features and storefront customisation. |
| Monetization | You get complete freedom to monetise through any ad network or affiliate program. | You can easily monetisation via WordAds, available with the Premium plan or higher. |
| Support | There is no direct support; however, there is a large community and assistance from your hosting provider. | There are free plan users who have access to documentation and forums. Paid plans offer email and live chat support. |
| Learning Curve | Steeper learning curve but offers more scalability and flexibility. | Easier for beginners, thanks to managed hosting and simpler options. |
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What is WordPress And How to Create a New Website on WordPress FAQs
How does WordPress work?
WordPress operates through a simple interface that allows you to create, edit, and manage content with ease. You can add custom themes to change the design and install plugins to enhance the functionality of your site. It uses a database to store all your website’s content, settings, and media.
Can I create an eCommerce website with WordPress?
Yes, you can create an eCommerce website using WordPress. With plugins like WooCommerce, WordPress can easily be transformed into a full-fledged online store, complete with product pages, payment gateways, and order management.
What is WordPress used for?
WordPress can be used to build a variety of websites, including blogs, business sites, portfolios, online stores, and even membership or forum sites. It offers extensive features through themes and plugins, making it a highly versatile platform.
