Table of Contents
WordPress Plugin Explained
Core Concept and Functionality
How Plugins Interact with the WordPress Core
Benefits from Using WordPress Plugins
Are WordPress Plugins Free or Do You Need to Pay for Them?
Where Do You Get WordPress Plugins?
How Plugins Impact Website Speed
Plugin Compatibility
Managing Your Plugins
WordPress is by far, the most popular web publishing platform in the world, and for many good reasons. One of those reasons is the ability to utilize “plugins”. But, what exactly is a WordPress plugin you ask?
WordPress Plugin Explained
A WordPress plugin is a self-contained piece of software that provides additional functionality, features and capabilities, to your WordPress website. Plugins can be installed in your website, by going to plugins section of the WordPress dashboard to search for a free plugin you would like to use, then, either use the built-in, one-click installation method or you can upload any plugin (free or paid) as a zip file, directly from your computer.
Conceptually, WordPress plugins can also be described as being similar to an app for your mobile device, as both plugins and mobile apps are software components that expand the capabilities and features of the core application or platform of each.
Core Concept and Functionality
A WordPress plugin starts with simple PHP files. These files talk to your website’s database and adjust how pages load and function. Plugins extend what WordPress can do out of the box, from pulling in social media feeds to creating an online store and much, much, more.
How Plugins Interact with the WordPress Core
Plugins use action hooks that enable it to run code at key moments during the WordPress code execution process, for example, when a page loads.
Benefits from Using WordPress Plugins
Expands Core Capabilities
One of the benefits from using plugins is that it enables you to add features or functionalities to your WordPress website that are beyond what the native WordPress core software comes with. Want a contact form? There are plugins for that. Want turn your website into an online store? There is a popular eCommerce plugin for that too. If you need a specific capability, chances are, a WordPress plugin already exists for that. But, even if you have a need for a unique feature or functionality, you can always hire a plugin developer to build you a custom plugin.
Improves User Engagement and User Experience
Another benefit from utilizing plugins is that it can noticeably improve user engagement because it gives your website more robust features and functionality which lead to a better user experience.
Tailors Functionality for Niche Requirements
Not every WordPress website has the same needs. Plugins let you build for functionality specific industry needs. Say you run martial arts classes, plugins can enable you to install a booking system that syncs schedules. Or what is you would like to create a membership component for your professional association’s website that creates membership tiers, such free trials and/or paid access to special content? There are plugins for that.
Are WordPress Plugins Free or Do You Need to Pay for Them?
WordPress plugins can be free or paid, with many free plugins offering an upgrade to a “premium” version or extension for which an annual fee is charged. Some premium plugins offer the capability of paying for a one-time, lifetime license.
Where Do You Get WordPress Plugins?
Your WordPress Dashboard or at WordPress.org
You can get plugins from within your WordPress Dashboard under “Plugins” then click on the “Add Plugin” button at the top left of the page. These plugins come from the WordPress.org plugin directory and are generally considered safe to install.
Premium Plugins and Marketplaces
For a greater range of premium plugins that offer more advanced capabilities, you can search Google for the best plugin that suits your needs and go directly to the websites of premium plugin developers. Additionally, there are websites that serve as “marketplaces” such as CodeCanyon, where you can browse numerous premium plugins.
That said, before buying or installing any plugins, it is recommended that you first check reviews for the plugin you are interested in.
How Plugins Impact Website Speed
Too many plugins can really slow down your website. As such, you may want to try keeping plugins to the minimum necessary.
Plugin Compatibility
Plugins can conflict with other plugins or your WordPress theme. So, if after installing a new plugin you notice that your WordPress website no longer functions correctly, you may want to deactivate that new plugin to see if the issue goes away.
Managing Your Plugins
It is a good idea to be diligent about keeping your WordPress plugins updated and be aware of any issues that may crop up once a plugin update has been installed.
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