How to install a WordPress Plugin

Simple guide that helps to install a WordPress plugin in 3 popular methods. WordPress tops the list of most used blogging platforms and one of the main reasons behind that is availability of free plugins. In this article we will clearly explain What a Plugin is ? How to install a plugin ? and How to update a plugin ? in WordPress.

This tutorial is meant for beginners who have no knowledge on plugins. Learn how to install a WordPress plugin and unlock the power of WordPress by diving into World of plugins, which are absolutely free to use.

What is a Plugin ?

A WordPress plugin is composed of php scripts and it helps to add some additional features. Often plugins are used to enhance the user experience and are considered as add-ons. Most the WordPress plugins are free to use and developed by open-source contributors. Check out official plugin repository for more information

WordPress Plugins »

It is Necessary to use a Plugin ?

This completely depends on the requirement and in most of the cases there is no need to use plugins. Some plugins like Akismet are recommended to use, as they help to prevent SPAM automatically, saving a lot of time for you. Also, plugins like Jetpack, Holly Dolly etc comes by default (in deactivated mode) with every fresh installation of WordPress and are optional to use.

Now, lets move to the guide that helps to install a plugin in WordPress blog.

Check How to Get Free Akismet API Key in WordPress

Automatically Install a Plugin from WordPress Dashboard

The most popular and commonly use method on WordPress. Follow the below steps to automatically install a plugin on your WordPress blog without any hassle.

Step 1: Login to WordPress Dashboard and go to Plugins Menu. To install a plugin click on “Add New” Button.

Step 2: Using the form Search for the desired plugin  (In this case Akismet is chosen).

Step3: After the results are displayed, click on “Install Now” Link.

Step4: Plugin will be automatically installed and you need to activate it by clicking on “Activate Plugin” link.

Step5: After activating plugin, you will be redirected to the plugins page.

You have successfully installed plugin by following automatic method and if you want to know how to install a WordPress plugin manually, follow below steps.

Manually Install a WordPress Plugin by Uploading

This method is most commonly used in case of installing premium WordPress plugins which are not available to download at official WordPress Repository.

Step 1: Login to WordPress Dashboard and go to Plugins menu.

Step 2: Download a plugin from WordPress directory or use an existing one.

Step 3: Browse for the plugin and click on Install Now Button.

Step 4: Plugin has been successfully installed and you need to activate it.

Step 5: Immediately, you will be redirected to plugins page.

You have successfully installed a WordPress plugin using manual method and follow below guide to know how to install a plugin using FTP Manger.

Manually Install a WordPress Plugin using FTP Manager

Less popular yet useful method that helps to install a WordPress plugin. To use this method,You need to have a FTP software like FileZilla (we recommend to use it).

Step 1: Login to your FTP account and go to wp-content folder.

Step 2: Open plugins folder, drag and drop extracted folder of required plugin.

Step 3: Login to WordPress Dashboard and activate it from plugins menu.

Voila, you have successfully installed and activated plugin by using FTP method. If you need any further help on how to install a WordPress plugin, drop a comment.