WordPress, the most well-known content management system, is a publishing tool that is utilized by new and seasoned website owners. The program is considered a free and open source. The product depends on peer support to address customer issues and test new versions before each release goes live. Users favor the modernized system for its range of features that enable them to personalize their websites and the easy step-by-step instructions given to build a platform.
WordPress has several popular applications that enhance the online profiles of individuals and businesses, as well as simplify user ability. Plug-in architecture, for instance, is defined as a series of software components that help customize applications. WordPress users are given access to this feature in order to increase their website’s functionality in distinctive ways. Popular plug-in editions include widgets, Adobe Flashplayer, SEO, and more.
Another common application in WordPress is the multi-user and multi-blogger tool. This feature allows users to manage and alter multiple blogs at their discretion. Themes also offer support for WordPress users, enabling them to change the physical appearance of their site and re-position or add templates without removing information altogether. Individuals may opt to utilize this feature by uploading theme folders or taking advantage of the dashboard assistance tool.
Similarly, widgets are provided to help users drag and manipulate content. Other WordPress features include, but aren’t limited to, partnering mobile applications, article arrangement capabilities, and tool that authorize the tagging of links, articles, and photos.
How WordPress Evolved
WordPress was initially introduced on the market in the middle of 2003 by a then-freshman undergraduate student. The system was a spin-off of b2 or cafelog, a blogging platform that was dropped months before the development of its successor.
Since then, WordPress has enjoyed more success than its competitors and has been downloaded by millions of users worldwide. There have been several releases that promote better versions of the system throughout the years. The latest development, version 3.2, was released in the summer of 2011.
Challenges
Although it’s considered to be one of the top web inventions in today’s information age, WordPress isn’t without its drawbacks. The system is noted for falling victim to security issues in the past.
A specific instance involved an attacker exploiting a code to get access to downloads of WordPress. The incident prompted the release of a newer version and an advisory statement that encouraged users to upgrade immediately to safeguard their information. WordPress’s vulnerabilities were later said to be a result of running outdated and unreliable software. The system’s development team is now taking precautions by ensuring that the latest versions are protected.
How To Use WordPress
Using WordPress is easy once you’ve completed the initial steps to get started. First, you must install the system which can be done directly or with the help of a web host. It typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes to download. Afterwards, you should log into the administration screen and take a tour of the site’s various features to learn its capabilities.
You may then want to set up distinct categories on your site to categorize your posts before you begin submitting material. Lastly, you can enhance your platform by customizing your theme, creating a distinct look, adding plug-ins and arranging widgets.
Addressing Myths about WordPress
1. Blogger templates are easily transferable to WordPress.
Since the coding for WordPress templates differs from that of standard templates, it’s impossible for users to transfer web content from another platform or vice versa.
2. WordPress is solely for informal use.
WordPress is utilized by individuals from all backgrounds. Many professionals, as well as hobbyists or amatuers, benefit from promoting their services or products via the system.
3. WordPress builds websites.
Many people mistakenly assume that WordPress constructs websites. However, this isn’t the case at all. Although WordPress contains enhancement tools that can make content resemble a website, the system’s primary purpose is to create a platform for blogging.
Additional Key Facts
- The WordPress management team host frequent gatherings for the purpose of networking, celebrating recent accomplishments, and addressing system-related issues. The series of informal and formal events are called ‘Word Camp’. Conferences have taken place in San Francisco, CA, Beijing and other places around the world.
- An array of graphic design colleges teach students how to create and manage the technical and aesthetic elements of content managment systems that are related, or perform similarly to, WordPress.
- Different releases for WordPress have addressed a large host of issues, including uploading capabilities, plug-in identification headers, security corrections, better editing tools, internal linking processes, and faster tagging.
If you have a keen interest in the professional use of WordPress or related CMS tools, it’s crucial to begin reviewing an education that could make you marketable for web design careers. Classes in this industry will provide an in-depth understanding of complex processes, such as content placement, lucrative marketing trends, and technical operations.