How to install a plugin in WordPress

Method 1: Install a Plugin from the WordPress Repository

This method works for free plugins available on the official WordPress plugin repository.

1. Log in to your WordPress Dashboard
   • Go to yourdomain.com/wp-admin.
2. Navigate to the Plugins Section
   • In the sidebar, go to Plugins > Add New.
3. Search for the Plugin
   • Use the search bar to find the plugin (e.g., “Yoast SEO” or “Contact Form 7”).
4. Install the Plugin
   • Click the Install Now button next to the desired plugin.
5. Activate the Plugin
   • After installation, click Activate to enable the plugin on your site.

Method 2: Upload a Plugin (Premium or Custom Plugins)

If you’ve purchased a premium plugin or have a custom plugin in .zip format, use this method.

1. Download the Plugin
   • Ensure you have the plugin’s .zip file.
2. Navigate to the Plugin Upload Section
   • In the WordPress Dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New.
   • Click the Upload Plugin button at the top.
3. Upload and Install
   • Click Choose File to select the .zip file.
   • Click Install Now.
4. Activate the Plugin
   • After installation, click Activate to start using the plugin.

Method 3: Install a Plugin via FTP

Use this method if the above options are unavailable or fail.

1. Download the Plugin
   • Ensure you have the plugin folder (unzipped) or .zip file.
2. Access Your Server via FTP
   • Use an FTP client like FileZilla.
   • Log in with your FTP credentials.
3. Navigate to the Plugins Directory
   • Go to the /wp-content/plugins/ folder on your WordPress installation.
4. Upload the Plugin Folder
   • Extract the .zip file if necessary.
   • Upload the plugin folder (not the .zip) to the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.
5. Activate the Plugin
   • Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
   • Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins and click Activate for the uploaded plugin.

After Installation

1. Configure Plugin Settings
   • Many plugins have their own settings page. Look for the plugin in:
     • The sidebar (e.g., “Yoast SEO”).
     • Under Settings in the WordPress Dashboard.
2. Check Plugin Documentation
   • Most plugins have guides or FAQs for proper setup and use.

Would you like assistance with configuring a specific plugin?