WordPress is a great content management system for building websites, but installing WordPress can be a confusing task for those who have no experience with website hosting, domain names, databases, or website management in general.
The truth is, installing WordPress is usually a straightforward task that can be achieved even by first-time website builders. Most hosting providers have a one-click or automatic WordPress installation option while advanced users can opt for a manual installation. In this beginner’s guide, we will walk through the process of installing WordPress, what to prepare before installation, configuration after installation, and other details.
So, regardless of whether you are building a portfolio, a blog, business website, online shop, or any other type of website, this guide will give you the necessary information to get started.
What Do I Need to Install WordPress?
Before jumping into the process of installing WordPress, you need to prepare a few things. Here is a list of requirements and recommendations:
1. Domain Name
• A domain name is your website address, for example:
• yourbusiness.com
• yourname.com
• myblog.in
• Choose a domain name that is easy to remember and relevant to the website.
2. Web Hosting
Web hosting provides the necessary infrastructure to host your website. It is where all of your website’s data, images, files, and content reside. When looking for a hosting provider, make sure to prioritize the following:
• WordPress compatibility
• Having an SSL certificate
• Uptime
• Backups
• Customer support
• One-click WordPress installation
• Storage and bandwidth
• Scalability
3. SSL Certificate
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, and it is a security certificate that allows websites to switch from non-secure HTTP to secure HTTPS. Most hosting providers will have an automatic option for adding a free SSL certificate to your website. Make sure to enable it once you launch the website.
4. Basic Website Configuration Information
It is recommended to have the following information ready before you begin installing WordPress:
• Website name
• Website description
• Administrator’s name (leave this field blank if you want to enter a different administrator name)
• Password for the WordPress administrator (make sure it is strong)
• Email address for the WordPress administrator
Note: Avoid using common administrator names like admin. Instead, use names that are not obvious. This could enhance the security of your website.
How to Install WordPress: Quick Steps
Now that we have covered the essentials, let’s begin the step-by-step process of installing WordPress.
Step 1: Purchase a WordPress-Compatible Hosting Plan
The first task is to purchase a hosting plan. Most hosting providers now offer managed WordPress hosting plans. For first-time buyers, it is recommended to go for a lower-tier plan and then upgrade as the website needs.
Before purchasing, make sure to consider the following: traffic expectations, storage needs, type of website, level of customer support, backup solutions, and upgrade options.
Once you purchase the hosting plan, you should receive an email with the login details for the hosting control panel. The control panel could be cPanel or a different web-based interface.
Step 2: Connect Your Domain to the Hosting Provider
If you have bought the hosting plan and domain from different providers, you need to configure your domain to point to the hosting company. This process is also known as changing the domain’s nameservers.
At this point, your hosting provider should give you two nameserver addresses. Log in to your domain registrar and update the domain’s nameservers with the ones provided by the hosting company.
Note: It may take some time (up to 24 hours) before the DNS changes take effect. If you have bought your hosting and domain from the same company, this step should be done automatically.
Step 3: Access Your Hosting Control Panel
After the domain is connected to the hosting plan, it is time to access the hosting control panel. Log in using the email and password provided by the hosting company.
At this point, you should see either the WordPress auto-installer or a section for installing WordPress. Look for an option that says something like:
Install WordPress
or
Websites → WordPress → Install
The interface will vary depending on the hosting provider. Most companies will offer a one-click installation process that does not require any technical knowledge.
Step 4: Launch the Automatic WordPress Installer
After locating the WordPress section, click on the Install button or a similar option. At this point, the installer will prompt you to provide the following information:
• Domain name
• Installation directory (leave this option blank if you want to install WordPress on the main domain)
• WordPress version (the latest version is recommended)
• Website name
• Website description
• Administrator’s name (use a strong and unique name)
• Administrator’s password (use a strong password)
• Administrator’s email (use a valid email address)
You can use the default settings for most fields, but make sure to update the Website Address field. If you want your website’s address to be, for example, at example.com, make sure the Website Address field is set to example.com and not example.com/wordpress (this will make your website appear at example.com/wordpress).
Setting the WordPress Administrator Password
At this point, make sure to set a strong password. A secure WordPress administrator password should include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Avoid using common words or predictable patterns when setting the password. Make sure not to use the same administrator password in other services.
Step 5: Complete the Installation Process
After providing the necessary information, you will be prompted to proceed with the installation. During this step, the hosting provider will take care of WordPress installation and database configuration. The installation usually takes only a few minutes.
Once the process is complete, the installer will display your website’s address, the administrator login URL, and the administrator username and password. The administrator login page will most likely be at yourwebsite.com/wp-admin.
Log in to the administrator dashboard and proceed with further configuration. Finally, you can view the welcome page for your WordPress website.
Installing WordPress is just the beginning. If you want to follow a step-by-step guide on setting up a website the right way, my WordPress eBook and checklist can help you get the process right without getting confused on the way. Get the WordPress eBook and follow the checklist step by step.
How to Manually Install WordPress
Although automatic installation is the easiest and most common method of installing WordPress, it is possible to install the system manually. It is recommended to use the automatic method first, and if it does not work, try the manual method.
The manual method requires that you download WordPress, upload the files to the hosting server, configure the database, and perform some additional steps.
Let’s take a closer look at each step.
Step 1: Download WordPress
The first step is to download the WordPress software from the official website. The website will provide a compressed file with WordPress files. Make sure to extract the files to a folder on your computer.
Step 2: Upload WordPress Files to the Hosting Server
The next step is to upload the files to the hosting server. This can be done using the File Manager or an FTP client. The files should be uploaded to the website’s root directory (usually public_html).
Step 3: Configure the Database
Log in to your hosting control panel, and create a new database. Most control panels have a database creation tool that will help you generate a database name, username, and password. Make sure to save this information somewhere safe.
Step 4: Launch the Installation Wizard
Now, it is time to open the web browser and visit your domain. The WordPress installation wizard should appear on the screen. If it does not, make sure to enter the correct URL.
When the installation wizard appears, the next step will be to provide the host database details. You will be prompted to enter the database name, database username, and database password. If your hosting is local, you may need to enter localhost as the database hostname.
Step 5: Finish Configuration
After you enter the database configuration details, WordPress will complete the installation process. Next, you will be redirected to a page prompting you to provide your website’s name, administrator name, administrator email, and confirm the password. This is a good time to enter all the details correctly. After that, you can proceed to the finishing step.
Step 6: Complete the Installation
On the final step, WordPress will confirm that everything is set up and you will be redirected to the administrator dashboard. From here, you can view the welcome screen and begin customizing your website.
Build Your WordPress Website the Right Way
A properly installed WordPress website is only the beginning of the long and rewarding journey of building a professional-looking website. If you want to jump on the right track from day one, make sure to follow the step-by-step guide from my WordPress eBook.
It is designed for novice website builders and will help them transform their WordPress website from a simple blog into a fully functioning website.
How to Customize WordPress After Installation
After installing WordPress, it is a good idea to begin configuring the system. It is normal for first-time website builders to get confused at this stage because there are so many options and settings. Let’s cover the most important configuration options that you should consider after installing WordPress.
Step 1: Configure General Settings
After you finish the initial setup, navigate to the Settings > General menu. You should see the following configuration options:
• Site Title
• Tagline
• WordPress Address (URL)
• Site Address (URL)
• Administration Email
• Time Zone
• Date Format
• Time Format
Make sure that the WordPress address and site address match the website’s URL. If the website uses an SSL certificate, make sure that they are set to https://.
Step 2: Set Up Permalink Structure
The next configuration step is to configure the permalink structure. This setting defines how the website URLs will look. It is best to select the Pretty Permalink option. For example, the URL to a blog post should look something like this:
yourwebsite.com/blog-post-slug-instead-of-numeric-id
This will make the website more search-engine friendly.
If you are a first-time WordPress website builder, you might get overwhelmed by the process of customization. My WordPress eBook offers a helpful guide that first-time website owners can use while configuring their websites.
Keep it close to your computer while configuring your website and follow the instructions step by step.
Step 3: Install WordPress Theme
The next step is to install WordPress theme. The theme will define the general look and feel of the website. Navigate to Appearance > Themes > Add New. You can search for themes by category, name, or author.
Before selecting a theme, make sure to take a closer look at its description and preview. Choose a responsive theme that is compatible with mobile devices and has a good page loading speed. Pay special attention to themes’ customization options.
Do not choose a theme solely based on its appearance. Instead, focus on finding a theme that will meet the specific needs of your website. After selecting a theme, click Install, and then click Activate to begin using it.
Step 4: Create WordPress Pages
Every website needs landing pages or sections that will allow visitors to browse around and find the information they are looking for. Depending on the type of website, the following pages should be created:
• Home
• About Us
• Services
• Products
• Blog
• Contact
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
You can create the pages by navigating to Pages > Add New. Make sure to create a simple navigation menu that will allow visitors to explore the website without confusion.
Step 5: Install Only the Plugins You Need
As mentioned above, plugins add extra functionality to the website. However, novice website owners might try to install too many plugins at once. It is recommended to only install the plugins that will be used. Some of the most popular plugins include Wordfence, Sucuri, All-in-One WP Migration, and UpdraftPlus.
Before installing a plugin, make sure to research its features, reviews, and compatibility with the current WordPress version.
Step 6: Configure WordPress Security Settings
Security is one of the most important aspects of website building. At the very least, WordPress website owners should:
• Use strong administrator passwords.
• Keep the WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated.
• Use an SSL certificate.
• Make regular backups of the website.
• Limit the number of administrator accounts.
• Delete unused themes and plugins.
If you are a first-time WordPress website builder, you might get overwhelmed by the process of customization. My WordPress eBook offers a helpful guide that first-time website owners can use while configuring their websites.
Keep it close to your computer while configuring your website and follow the instructions step by step.
Step 7: Test Your Website
It is a good idea to test the website before launching it. For example, there is nothing worse than publishing a website and realizing that the Contact page has a broken link or the website menu is broken.
Make sure that the website will look good on both desktop and mobile devices. Test all links, including the navigational menu, and make sure that they lead to the correct location. Test if any calls-to-action buttons are working correctly.
Another good idea is to test if the website is using SSL encryption correctly. This is usually indicated by a lock icon next to the website address. Double-check that all links, including social media links, are directed to the correct websites. If the website has a search function, make sure it is working as expected.
Finally, make sure that the website is performing as it should. Send a test message using the contact form and check if it reaches the designated email address.
Common Mistakes when Installing WordPress
The first-time WordPress website builders often make the following mistakes.
Installing WordPress in the Wrong Directory
If the website should be accessed at yourdomain.com, make sure that it is not installed in a subdirectory. Avoid using long and complicated file names when installing WordPress.
Using weak passwords for the WordPress administrator account
The administrator account is one of the most valuable assets on the website, and it should be secured with a strong password.
Installing too many plugins.
Installing plugins is not bad per se, but novice website owners might try to install dozens of different plugins at once, which will hurt the performance of the website.
Not making website backups.
Backups are vital for all types of websites. Make sure that you have a recent backup of your website in case something goes wrong.
Not using SSL
Website security should be a priority. Make sure that the website uses SSL encryption.
Modifying Website Settings without Understanding their Purpose
Although WordPress has many settings, it is not recommended to change them randomly. Only change the settings that you understand.
What to Do after Installing WordPress
After installing WordPress, the next logical step is to configure the website in order to turn it from a simple blog into a complete website. Here are the main tasks that should be completed:
• Basic Configuration
• Permalink Configuration
• Theme Installation and Customization
• Page Creation
• Navigation Menu Creation
• Plugin Installation
• Security and Backup Configuration
• Image Optimization
• Website Content Creation
• SEO Configuration
• Final Website Testing
• Launching the Website
It is important to note that the process of installing WordPress is only a small part of the entire website building task. A properly built and well-functioning website requires a lot of different aspects to be considered. Although the first-time website owners might feel like they are overwhelmed at this stage, it is important to remember that practice makes perfect.
If you want to learn how to use WordPress but are unsure where to start, my WordPress eBook will help you take the first steps confidently. It is designed specifically for first-time website owners and will guide them through the main aspects of building a website.
Conclusion
Installing WordPress is one of the first steps towards building a website. Most first-time website owners will benefit the most from using the automatic installation method provided by their hosting companies. If they want more control over the process, they can use the manual method and install the system themselves.
After installing WordPress, the new website owner should focus on the basic configuration, theme selection and customization, essential pages creation, and plugin selection. The main idea is to learn through practice and not spend too much time on theory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is WordPress free to install?
Although the WordPress software itself is free, it is necessary to purchase a domain name and a web hosting plan to build a self-hosted WordPress website.
Can a beginner install WordPress?
Yes, most beginners can install WordPress with ease. Most web hosting providers offer a one-click or automatic method for WordPress installation.
How long does it take to install WordPress?
The automatic method takes only a few minutes to complete. The manual method may take longer since it involves more steps.
Do I need to know how to code to install WordPress?
No, an automatic WordPress installation method does not require any coding or technical knowledge. However, basic technical knowledge will be required if you wish to customize your website.
Where do I log in to WordPress?
The login page for WordPress is usually located at yourdomain.com/wp-admin.
Can I install WordPress without hosting?
A self-hosted WordPress website cannot exist without web hosting. However, it is possible to install WordPress locally on your computer.
What is the difference between WordPress.com and self-hosted WordPress?
WordPress.com is a hosted service whereas self-hosted WordPress requires you to purchase web hosting and a domain name.
Should I install a WordPress theme right away?
It is recommended to take your time and research before installing a theme. Choose a theme that matches your
website’s purpose and requirements.How many plugins should I install on WordPress?
There is no specific number of plugins that should be installed on a WordPress website. It is important to choose the plugins that will add value and functionality to the website without hurting its performance.
What should I do after I install WordPress?
It is recommended to configure the basic settings, set up permalinks, select and customize a theme, create essential pages, and install only the plugins that will be used. A website owner should also configure the website security and make regular website backups. Finally, all website elements should be tested before launching the website.
