How to Install a WordPress Plugin – Step by Step Guide for Beginners

by Audrey Cruz Content Writer, SEO Executive

After installing WordPress, the first thing that comes to mind is how to add features in the WordPress such as table, contact form, slideshow, etc. WordPress has the solution for this problem, and the solution is called Plugin. Plugins allow you to add new functionality to WordPress. There are many free or paid plugins available for WordPress. In this article, we will get step by step guide on how to install plugin for wordPress. Note: You can’t install plugins for wordpress.com because it has its limitations. You only install plugins on WordPress.com unless you upgrade to its business plan. But on the other hand, you can install any plugin of your choice on the self hosted wordpress.org website right out of the box. If you want to switch from wordpress.com to wordpress.org, then read the article on how to properly move from WordPress.com to wordpress.org.

How to install a WordPress Plugin

The easiest way of installing a WordPress plugin is to use the plugin search in the WordPress admin. The downside of this option is that paid plugins are not listed in the WordPress plugin directory and it is limited to only free plugins.

First thing you have to do is go to your WordPress admin area and click on Plugins >> Add New.

Type the name and functionality on the search bar to find the plugin you are looking for.

Upon typing the plugin name, you will see a bunch of listings of the related functionality.

WordPress will download and install that plugin for you. After this, you will see the success message with a link to activate the plugin or return to the plugin installer.

You can choose the plugin that is best for you. If you have no idea about the plugin which is best for you then have a look on the rating and choose the best one. Now, click on the install button now.

The selected WordPress plugin is installed. Now, you will see the success message with a link to activate the plugin or return to the plugin installer.

Activate a WordPress plugin

A WordPress plugin will not work unless you activate it. So, activate the plugin on your WordPress website. You have successfully installed the WordPress plugin. The next is to configure the plugin settings.

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