Chapter 8: WordPress Plugins
Chapter 8 of 15
Chapter 8: WordPress Plugins
8.1 What are Plugins?
Plugins extend WordPress functionality without modifying core files.
Popular Plugin Categories:
- SEO plugins (Yoast, Rank Math)
- Security plugins (Wordfence, Sucuri)
- Backup plugins (UpdraftPlus)
- Contact form plugins (Contact Form 7)
- E-commerce plugins (WooCommerce)
- Performance plugins (WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache)
8.2 Installing Plugins
Install plugins from the repository or upload custom plugins.
- Browse WordPress plugin directory
- Install from admin dashboard
- Upload custom plugin ZIP
- Install via FTP
- Activate plugin
8.3 Plugin Best Practices
- Only install necessary plugins
- Keep plugins updated
- Use reputable plugins
- Test plugins before going live
- Check plugin compatibility
- Review plugin code if possible
8.4 Managing Plugins
Effectively manage installed plugins.
- Regularly update plugins
- Deactivate unused plugins
- Delete unused plugins
- Monitor plugin conflicts
- Check plugin performance impact