Last Updated on June 29, 2022 by Ludiah
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What are WordPress plugins?
Have you heard about WordPress Plugins? If you just created your website, I know you are wondering what next. Perhaps everyone is telling you to install the best WordPress plugins. If you are new, your obvious question is, what are WordPress plugins?
If you haven’t noticed, plugins are an essential part of every WordPress website. When I set up my first website, I didn’t know the importance of the plugin not to mention what they are or were. Let me help you understand this quickly.
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The code language may be hard for you to understand if you are just new to website development. In simple terms, plugins are codes or mini-programs that are written either by a company or an individual, and you can install them on your site. Once you install the plugins, they affect the way your website works.
Want to test your website speed? Test your website speed here.
Many plugins are free, but they have an option to upgrade to a premium version that offers added functionality. While several are free, you can only use some of them after buying. Others request you to donate something for their upkeep. If you are just starting out, I suggest that you do not bother yourself getting a paid version. You can access the commonly used ones for free.
Do you need WordPress plugins on your site?
As we said earlier, they are an essential part of a website. Therefore the answer is yes; you need them. But we still have a question how vital are they to your site? We are all aware that the internet works in coded language. It is so unlucky that many of us, including me, do not understand the code language. And if you know the code language, it is not enough to do intricate things on the site.
But that is not the point! All we just to share here is the importance of these plugins to your WordPress website. However, this does not mean you overload your website with plugins. If you do that, its performance will be affected. With many plugins, your website is likely to load slowly. Read this to find out more: WP Engine – How Site Speed Affects Your Business
Enhance the website functionality
The WordPress CMS (content management system) does not provide adequate functionality. That is why you need to use the coded language. You may decide to write the codes if you know how to or get an expert to carry it out. They, therefore, help to fill the gap while helping you to enhance the website and boosts its functionality.
Integrate the site with other platforms or tools
Different WordPress plugins offer different features. Some of them are independent, and others rely on alternatives. The coded language comes in handy when you want to integrate your website with other platforms or tools. They make the tools and platforms to work smoothly on your site.
For example, you can link your WordPress site with Google Analytics to help you monitor the performance of your website and see everything right inside the admin area. You can use them to collect subscribers from your WordPress site. Some of those plugins that you can integrate with your WordPress include the following:
- GetResponse
- Mailerlite
- MailChimp for WordPress
- OptinMonster
- HubSpot
- AWeber forms
- EmailBuddy
Security
Hackers are increasing their attacks every day. That is why it is important to install security plugins. While this does not mean your site will be free of hackers, it is good to take security measures. Most website owners use Wordfence to secure their sites. Although they’re necessary, it is vital to update them regularly, delete those plugins you do not use. Also, if you do not delete them, ensure they are regularly updated. Some of the security plugins you should have on your website include;
- Wordfence
- WP Cerber
- WPS Hide Login
- iThemes Security Pro
What does your password say about you? Read it here:
Unmasked: What 10 million passwords reveal about the people who choose them
Conclusion
Having said all these, I’m sure you now understand what plugins are and why you need them on your site. Many of them can help you to enhance the experience of your site. Avoid installing several of them on your site as they may affect your site negatively that it regarding speed.
