If you want to start a website, you have likely heard the name WordPress. It is the most popular way to build a site today, powering over 40% of all websites on the internet. But what exactly is it, and how does it actually function?
What Is WordPress?
At its simplest, WordPress is a Content Management System (CMS).
A CMS is a tool that allows you to manage the content of your website without needing to know how to write computer code. In the early days of the internet, you had to understand complex languages like HTML and CSS to create a single page. With WordPress, you can write text, upload photos, and organize your site using a simple dashboard that looks a lot like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
There are two versions of WordPress:
- WordPress.org: This is the self-hosted version. You download the software for free, but you pay for your own hosting and domain name. This gives you full control.
- WordPress.com: This is a hosted service. It is easier to set up but offers less freedom unless you pay for expensive plans.
Most professionals use WordPress.org because of its flexibility.
How Does WordPress Work?
WordPress works by combining three main parts: the core files, the database, and the design files.
1. The Core Files
When you install WordPress, you are putting a set of files on a web server. These files act as the “brain” of your site. They tell the server how to handle requests, how to log you in, and how to display your posts.
2. The Database
WordPress uses a database called MySQL to store all your important information. Your actual blog posts, pages, user comments, and site settings are not stored in the core files. Instead, they are kept in this database. When a visitor clicks on your site, the core files “ask” the database for the right information to show that person.
3. The Themes and Plugins
This is where the magic happens.
- Themes: These control how your website looks. You can change your entire design with one click without losing your written content.
- Plugins: These are like apps for your website. They add new features. If you want a contact form, a store, or better security, you install a plugin.
Why Should You Use It?
WordPress is popular for several reasons:
- It is free: The software itself does not cost anything.
- It is easy to learn: You do not need a degree in computer science to get started.
- It is SEO friendly: This means it is built in a way that helps search engines like Google find your content easily.
- Ownership: When you use the self-hosted version, you own everything. You are not “renting” your site from a platform that could disappear tomorrow.
How to Get Started
To get your WordPress site running, you only need two things:
- A Domain Name: This is your website address (like www.yourname.com).
- Web Hosting: This is a service that provides the space on a server where your files live.
Once you have these, most hosting companies offer a “One-Click Install” for WordPress. From there, you just log in, pick a theme, and start writing.
WordPress has evolved from a simple blogging tool into a powerful system that can run anything from a personal diary to a massive online store. Because it is so flexible and easy to use, it remains the top choice for beginners and experts alike.