Wordpress Basics

Knowledge Base: DIY-Friendly WordPress Website Guide

1. Getting Started with WordPress:
   • Choose a web hosting provider that supports WordPress.
   • Install WordPress using a one-click installer or manually.
   • Access the WordPress dashboard and familiarize yourself with the interface.
2. Essential Settings:
   • Set up permalinks: Go to Settings > Permalinks and choose a URL structure.
   • Configure site title and tagline: Go to Settings > General and enter your desired site title and tagline.
   • Adjust discussion settings: Go to Settings > Discussion to manage comments and notifications.
   • Set up a static front page: Go to Settings > Reading and select a static page for your homepage.
3. Themes:
   • Browse and install themes: Go to Appearance > Themes and click "Add New" to explore and install themes.
   • Customize your theme: Navigate to Appearance > Customize and modify various aspects such as colors, layout, and typography.
   • Install a child theme: If you want to make customizations to your theme, install and activate a child theme to preserve your changes during theme updates.
4. Plugins:
   • Install plugins: Go to Plugins > Add New to search and install plugins to enhance your site's functionality.
   • Essential plugins: Consider installing plugins for SEO optimization, security, backup, caching, and contact forms.
   • Plugin management: Regularly update plugins and remove any unnecessary or outdated ones.
5. Creating Content:
   • Add pages and posts: Go to Pages > Add New or Posts > Add New to create and publish content.
   • Formatting content: Utilize the WordPress editor's formatting options for headings, paragraphs, lists, and media embedding.
   • Insert media: Easily add images, videos, and audio files to your content using the media library.
6. Customization and Site Enhancements:
   • Customize menus: Go to Appearance > Menus to create and manage your website's navigation menus.
   • Widget management: Utilize widgets for sidebars, footers, and other widgetized areas. Manage them in Appearance > Widgets.
   • Add custom CSS: Use the Additional CSS section in Appearance > Customize to add custom styling to your website.
   • Install and configure essential plugins: Consider plugins for search engine optimization (SEO), contact forms, security, and social sharing.
7. Website Optimization:
   • Improve website performance: Use caching plugins, optimize images, and minimize CSS and JavaScript files.
   • Optimize for search engines: Install an SEO plugin and optimize page titles, meta descriptions, and content structure.
   • Ensure mobile responsiveness: Choose a responsive theme and test your website on different devices.
   • Monitor website analytics: Install Google Analytics and review your site's performance regularly.
8. Managing Users and Security:
   • User roles and permissions: Assign appropriate user roles to ensure proper access levels and security.
   • Strong passwords: Encourage users to choose strong passwords and implement a password policy.
   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Enhance security by enabling 2FA for user logins.
   • Regular backups: Use a reliable backup plugin or service to regularly back up your website's data.

Remember to always keep your WordPress core, themes, and plugins up to date for optimal security and performance.

Note: This knowledge base provides general instructions for setting up and managing a WordPress website. For specific themes, plugins, or advanced customization, refer to their respective documentation or seek support from their developers or relevant online communities.

When all steps fail or you find it overwhelming, raise a support ticket and we will happily help you.