Step-by-Step Guide: Managing Plugins in WordPress
1. Access Installed Plugins (0:17)
Once logged into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the left-hand margin. Click on “Plugins,” and then from the sub-menu that appears, select “Installed Plugins.” This page will display a comprehensive list of all plugins currently installed on your WordPress site.
2. Activate, Edit, or Delete Installed Plugins (0:33)
From the “Installed Plugins” page, you have control over each plugin. You can activate a plugin if it’s currently inactive, or deactivate an active one. Options to edit or delete any of your plugins will also be available when you hover over their names.
3. Add a New Plugin (0:36)
To extend your site’s functionality with new features, click on “Add New” (found either at the top of the “Installed Plugins” page or in the “Plugins” sub-menu). This will take you to a page displaying a list of available plugins. You can browse popular ones, search for specific functionality, or upload a plugin you’ve downloaded from elsewhere. You can also find more plugins by Browse the official WordPress Plugin Directory directly.
4. Edit Plugin Code (Advanced) (0:50)
WordPress also offers a plugin editor where you can directly modify a plugin’s code. To access this, click on “Plugin File Editor” (often under “Plugins” in the left margin). **Please note:** While you can edit plugins here, this is only recommended for advanced users with a strong understanding of PHP and WordPress development, as incorrect changes can break your site.
That’s it! You now have a clear understanding of how to manage plugins in WordPress, giving you the power to extend your website’s capabilities and customise it to your needs effectively and safely.