How to get started with WordPress

A guide to getting started with a WordPress site

WordPress.com vs WordPress.org

WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) used for creating and managing websites. WordPress.com and WordPress.org are two different platforms that offer different ways to use WordPress.

WordPress.com

WordPress.com is a hosting service that offers a fully managed WordPress experience. It is operated by Automattic, the company behind WordPress itself. WordPress.com takes care of hosting, backups, security, and software updates, which makes it an easy and hassle-free solution for creating a website.

However, the customization options are limited compared to WordPress.org, and you cannot install custom plugins or themes unless you upgrade to the business plan. This means that you would not be able to install one of our themes or plugins without paying for the business plan.

WordPress.org

WordPress.org is the self-hosted version of WordPress. It is a free, open-source software that you can download and install on your own web server or hosting account. This gives you full control over your website, including the ability to install any plugins or themes you like, customize your website design and functionality, and access your website’s files.

Recommended web hosts

Web hosts to use for a WordPress.org site

  • Cloudways

    Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform designed to simplify the process of creating and managing a website. With Cloudways, users can easily set up and scale their website. Cloudways provides robust security measures and offer 24/7 customer support.

    • 24/7 customer support
    • Free SSL Certificates
    • Free Migration
    • Automated Backups
    • Regular Security Updates
    • Automatic WordPress Updates
    Learn more

  • SiteGround

    SiteGround is a web hosting company that provides services for individuals, small and medium-sized businesses. SiteGround is known for its fast and reliable hosting services, security measures, as well as its excellent customer support.

    • 1 Click WordPress Install
    • Managed Security & Updates
    • Daily Backups
    • Free SSL Certificate
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Free CDN service
    Learn more

Frequently asked questions

  • General

  • WordPress.com

  • WordPress.org

  • What is WordPress hosting?

    WordPress hosting is a type of web hosting service that is specifically designed to host websites built on the WordPress platform. WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) that powers a large percentage of websites on the internet.

  • What is WordPress used for?

    WordPress is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used to create websites of all types and sizes. Its flexibility, ease of use, and vast ecosystem of plugins and themes make it a popular choice for individuals, businesses, and organizations of all kinds.

    It was originally created as a blogging platform, but through the addition of themes and plugins, it can be used for a range of sites, including personal blogs, eCommerce stores, portfolios, business, non-profit organizations, education, and more!

  • How much does WordPress hosting cost?

    The cost of WordPress hosting can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of hosting plan you choose, the hosting provider you select, and the specific features and services included in the plan.

  • I already have a WordPress site, how do I know if it is using WordPress.com or WordPress.org?

    You can check which your site is using by logging into your WordPress dashboard and hovering over the WordPress icon in the top left.

  • Can I install one of your themes with the free WordPress.com plan?

    No, you would need to have a business plan account to be able to install the theme on a WordPress.com site.

  • Can I transfer my WordPress.com site content to a self-hosted WordPress.org site?

    Yes, you can import your content from a WordPress.com site into a self‑hosted WordPress.org site.

  • Can I install one of your themes with my web host?

    If you have a self-hosted WordPress.org site you will be able to install one of our themes.

  • Can I transfer my self-hosted WordPress.org site content to a WordPress.com site?

    Yes, you can import your content from a self‑hosted WordPress.org site into a WordPress.com site.