Introduction to WordPress

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1. Introduction to WordPress

  • What is WordPress?

    • A powerful content management system (CMS) used to create websites and blogs.

    • WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet.

  • History of WordPress:

    • Launched in 2003 by Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little as a blogging platform.

    • Evolved into a full-featured website building tool with plugins, themes, and customizable features.

  • Key Features:

    • Open-source software.

    • Easy to use with a user-friendly dashboard.

    • Highly customizable through themes and plugins.

2. Why Use WordPress

  • Ease of Use:

    • User-friendly interface; no need for coding skills.

  • Customizability:

    • Thousands of free and premium themes and plugins to extend functionality.

  • Cost-Effective:

    • Free to use, although premium themes, plugins, and hosting may come at a cost.

  • SEO Friendly:

    • Built-in features like permalinks and tags help improve SEO.

  • Large Community and Support:

    • A large community of developers and users to provide support and advice.

  • Security:

    • Regular updates and security plugins make WordPress a secure platform when maintained properly.

3. What is Hosting and Domain

  • What is Hosting?

    • Hosting is the service that makes your website accessible on the internet.

    • It stores all the files and data needed for your website to function.

    • Types of Hosting:

      • Shared Hosting: Most affordable, multiple websites share a server.

      • VPS (Virtual Private Server): A step up from shared hosting, offering more control and resources.

      • Dedicated Hosting: You get an entire server to yourself, offering maximum control.

      • Managed WordPress Hosting: Hosting optimized specifically for WordPress.

  • What is a Domain?

    • A domain name is your website’s address on the internet (e.g., www.example.com).

    • You need to register a domain through a domain registrar.

    • Domains usually have an annual renewal cost.

3. What is Hosting and Domain

  • What is SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)?

    • A security protocol that encrypts data between your website and users, protecting sensitive information.

    • SSL certificates are essential for secure browsing and indicate your website is safe (shows as “HTTPS” in the URL).

  • Why is SSL Important?

    • Improved Security: It protects user data from being intercepted during transmission.

    • SEO Benefits: Google gives preference to sites with SSL, improving search rankings.

    • Trustworthiness: It shows visitors that your website is secure, increasing trust.

    • Required for E-Commerce: SSL is mandatory for any website handling sensitive data, like payment information.