There are several ways to install WordPress. The first video shows installing it on your hosting server; the second compares different methods, from one-click installers to manual setup.
Method 1: One-click install (easiest)
- Log in to your hosting panel.
- Find the WordPress or auto-installer section.
- Choose your domain, set an admin username (not "admin") and a strong password.
- Install, then log in at yourdomain.com/wp-admin.
Method 2: Manual install
- Download WordPress from wordpress.org.
- Create a MySQL database and user in your hosting panel.
- Upload the WordPress files with the file manager or FTP.
- Visit your domain and follow the setup wizard, entering the database details.
Method 3: Local install
Install WordPress on your own computer with a local server app. It is ideal for learning and testing designs before going live. See our video on local versus live servers.
After installing
- Turn on SSL so the site loads over https.
- Set permalinks to Post name.
- Delete sample content and unused themes and plugins.
- Check Settings, then Reading, and make sure search engines are not discouraged when you go live. A correct robots.txt helps; see our robots.txt generator.
Planning a professional build instead? Estimate costs with our website cost calculator.
Watch: installing WordPress using different methods
Installing WordPress using different methods9:30Installing WordPress using different methods
Want the full picture? This article is part of Business websites: the complete guide, our in-depth guide with everything in one place.
