What Are WordPress Plugins? How They Work & How to Use Them

WordPress, the world’s most popular content management system, owes much of its flexibility to plugins. 

Think of them as apps for your website, each offering extended functionality to enhance your online presence.   

In this guide, we will explore the world of WordPress plugins, exploring what they are, how they work, and how you can leverage them to create a powerful and dynamic website.

Let’s get started. 

What is a WordPress plugin?

A WordPress plugin is a software add-on that adds new features to a WordPress site without altering the core code. Primarily written in PHP, plugins integrate smoothly with WordPress and offer endless options, from SEO and security to eCommerce.

While WordPress.com offers many built-in features, self-hosted WordPress sites often require plugins for additional flexibility and functionality. For instance, if you want to create an online store, you would typically use the WooCommerce plugin. 

Plugins operate using the WordPress Plugin API, which provides hooks (actions and filters) that allow them to interact with the core functionalities of WordPress. This means that when a plugin is activated, it can insert its features at designated points within the WordPress system without causing conflicts. 

Users can easily manage plugins through the WordPress dashboard by navigating to “Plugins” to search, install, activate, and configure options that enhance their site. You can choose from free plugins or premium ones; many plugins offer basic versions for free, while premium options include advanced features and support.

Types of WordPress Plugins

WordPress plugins can be categorized based on their functionalities and the specific needs they address. Here are some common types of WordPress plugins:

Essential Plugins:

• SEO Plugins: SEO plugins help optimize websites for search engines, improving visibility and ranking. Popular examples include Yoast SEO, All in One SEO Pack, Rank Math, etc. 
• Security Plugins: Security plugins enhance website security by offering features like firewalls, malware scanning, and login protection. Notable options are Wordfence Security and Sucuri Security.
• Performance Optimization Plugins: These plugins improve website speed and performance through caching, image optimization, and database management. Examples include W3 Total Cache and WP Super Cache.
• Backup Plugins: Backup plugins are essential for data protection, allowing users to create backups of their site content. Popular choices include UpdraftPlus and BackupBuddy.

Functionality-Enhancing Plugins:

• Page Builder Plugins: These plugins provide drag-and-drop interfaces for creating custom page layouts without coding knowledge. Leading examples are Divi, Elementor, and Beaver Builder
• E-commerce Plugins: Designed to facilitate online sales, these plugins enable users to set up and manage online stores. Key examples include WooCommerce, the most popular e-commerce plugin, and Easy Digital Downloads.
• Social Media Plugins: Social Media plugins integrate social media functionalities into websites, which include sharing and engagement features. Common examples are Social Warfare and Social Media Share Buttons & Social Sharing Icons.
• Contact Form Plugins: Contact form plugins facilitate the creation of forms for user interaction, such as inquiries or feedback. Notable options include Ninja Forms and WPForms.
• Analytics Plugins: These plugins help track website performance and user behavior through analytics integration. Examples include MonsterInsights and Site Kit by Google.
• Custom Post Type Plugins: Custom post type plugins allow users to create custom post types beyond standard posts and pages. This way you can easily enhance content organization capabilities. Custom Post Type UI and Pods are two good options.
• Table Plugins: WordPress table plugins make it easy to organize and display data in a clear table format on your website. Popular options include RioVizual.

Other Plugin Categories:

• Membership Plugins: Membership plugins allow users to create membership sites with subscription options and restricted access to content based on user roles. MemberPress and Paid Memberships Pro are two popular options. 
• Event Management Plugins: Event management plugins help manage events by providing functionalities like ticket sales, RSVPs, calendars, and event listings. Some widely used plugins include The Events Calendar and All-in-One Event Calendar
• Email Marketing Plugins: Email marketing plugins integrate email marketing services into WordPress. You can manage newsletters, subscriber lists, and automated campaigns effectively with these. For example, Mailchimp and MailPoet.
• Chat and Support Plugins: Chat and support plugins enable live chat functionality or support ticket systems on websites for enhanced customer service experiences. For example, Tawk.to Live Chat and ThriveDesk.
• Content Management Plugins: These plugins enhance content creation processes by providing additional tools for organizing or displaying content effectively within WordPress sites like Advanced Custom Fields: Extended

Each type of plugin serves distinct purposes, allowing WordPress users to tailor their sites according to specific needs and preferences. Here’s more,

• Best WordPress Pricing Table Plugins
• Best WordPress Popup Plugins
• Best WordPress Gallery Plugins
• Best WordPress Page Builder Plugins

How do WordPress Plugins Work

Plugins connect to WordPress using “hooks” and “filters.” Hooks allow plugins to add new functions at specific points in WordPress, while filters let plugins adjust data before it’s displayed. 

When someone visits your site, WordPress loads its core software and all active plugins. If a plugin feature is needed, WordPress runs the plugin’s code to make it work. For example, a popular plugin like WooCommerce turns your site into a complete online store. 

Here’s how it works:

1. WooCommerce registers action hooks to add features like product listings and checkout functionality.
2. When a visitor adds a product to the cart, WordPress triggers an action hook, and WooCommerce records the details (product, quantity, price).
3. WooCommerce might use a filter to adjust cart details (like applying discounts) before checkout.
4. Finally, WooCommerce leverages WordPress’s database and processing functions to complete the purchase and send order confirmations.
5. This setup happens seamlessly, which allows WooCommerce to provide a full eCommerce experience within WordPress.

Where to Find WordPress Plugins

The primary source for free plugins is the WordPress.org plugin directory, which hosts over 60k plugins. You can also search for plugins directly from your WordPress admin area by navigating to Plugins > Add New and entering the desired functionality or plugin name.

In addition to the official repository, there are other platforms CodeCanyon, where developers sell premium plugins, and GPLDL, which offers GPL-licensed premium themes and plugins.

Many developers host their projects on GitHub, where you can find both free and open-source plugins. Searching GitHub can yield unique plugins that may not be available in the official directory.

Also, individual developers and companies often sell premium plugins directly on their websites, just like we sell DiviFlash Divi plugins on our website. This can be a good source for specialized or high-quality plugins that may not be listed elsewhere.

How to Install and Activate a WordPress Plugin

Once you’ve chosen a plugin, you must install and activate it, and then you can access its features directly from your WP Admin. 

To install and activate a WordPress plugin, start by logging into your WordPress admin area at http://your-domain.com/wp-admin/. Once logged in, navigate to the Plugins section on the left sidebar and select Add New. 

This will take you to the WordPress Plugin Directory, where you can use the search bar in the top right corner to find the specific plugin you want to install. For instance, if you’re looking for “Akismet Spam Protection,” plugin simply type its name into the search field. 

When you locate your desired plugin in the search results, click the Install Now button next to it; WordPress will automatically download and install the plugin for you. 

After installation, the button will change to Activate, which you need to click to enable the plugin on your site, as activation is necessary for it to function properly. 

For premium plugins not available in the WordPress Plugin Directory, you can upload them by downloading the plugin’s ZIP file from a third-party source. In this case, 

• Go to Plugins > Add New, then click on Upload Plugin at the top of the page. 
• Choose the ZIP file you downloaded and click Install Now
• Activate the Plugin once the upload is complete. 

How to Remove or Deactivate Plugins in WordPress

If you decide to no longer use a plugin, deactivating it will stop all its code from running on your site. If you might use it again soon, leave it installed but deactivated. However, if you don’t plan to use it again, delete it after deactivation to keep your site efficient, as unused plugins can slow it down over time.

Whether to deactivate or delete depends on your future needs. Here’s how to deactivate a plugin on your WordPress.com site:

• Log in and go to the “Plugins” section in your WP Admin.
• Find the plugin you want to deactivate and click “Deactivate.” This turns off its features without deleting them.

• If you want to remove the plugin entirely, click “Delete” after deactivating it. This will fully remove it from your site. 

Note: If you need to remove a plugin completely, first deactivate it as described above, then find the plugin again in the list and click the Delete link that appears after deactivation. Keep in mind that deleting a plugin may remove its settings and data, so ensure you no longer need it before proceeding.

That’s it! Your plugin is now deactivated or removed.

How to Configure a WordPress Plugin

After activation, you will find a dedicated settings area within your WordPress dashboard, under the “Settings” menu or directly listed in the sidebar. Click on the relevant settings link for the plugin to access its configuration options. 

The settings menu offers various options related to the plugin’s functionality. It includes enabling or disabling specific features, customizing layouts, or integrating with external services. Some plugins might require you to enter API keys or credentials to connect to third-party services, so be prepared to input this information if necessary. 

For example, if you install DiviFlash you will get a dedicated tab on your WordPress dashboard just like the below image. It will further let you add the product key, select layouts, enable or disable modules and, configure the plugin settings according to your needs.  

After making changes, always remember to save your settings and thoroughly test your website to ensure that everything functions as expected, including checking both the front end and any administrative functionalities impacted by the plugin. 

How to Update a WordPress Plugin

Updating WordPress plugins is crucial for maintaining security and ensuring optimal performance. Here’s how to do it, 

• Log into your WordPress admin area and navigate to Dashboard > Updates. 
• Here, you’ll see a list of plugins that require updates. 
• Simply select the plugins you want to update and click on the Update Plugins button. 

Alternatively, 

• Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins, where you’ll find notifications under each plugin that has an update available. 
• Click the Update Now link for each plugin to install the updates individually.

If you prefer to update multiple plugins at once, you can do so by selecting the checkbox next to each plugin or using the top checkbox to select all. Then, from the Bulk Actions dropdown menu, choose Update and click Apply to initiate the updates for all selected plugins.

• Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard and navigate to Plugins.
• You’ll see a list of all installed plugins on your website.
• If updates are available for any plugins, you’ll see a notification with an Update Now button next to the plugin name.

• Click the Update Now button next to the specific plugin you want to update. WordPress will download and install the update automatically.
• To update all at once, check the box next to Plugin choose Update from the Bulk Actions menu, then click Apply.  Wait for the confirmation message after clicking Update Now. That’s it!

• To enable or disable automatic updates, click Enable auto-updates in the Automatic Updates column for each plugin.

How to Choose the Right WordPress Plugin

Choosing the best WordPress plugin can significantly enhance your website’s functionality and user experience. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a plugin:

• Identify your needs: Determine the specific functionality you require for your website. Clearly defining your objectives will help you find plugins that meet those needs.
• Search the plugin directory: Utilize the official WordPress Plugin Directory to explore thousands of available plugins. You can search by keywords or browse through categories to find relevant options.
• Evaluate plugin credibility: Assess the plugin’s credibility by considering:
  • A higher number of installations usually indicates reliability.
  • Read user feedback to gauge performance and support responsiveness.
  • Check how recently the plugin was updated; regular updates suggest active maintenance.
• Check compatibility: Ensure that the plugin is compatible with your current version of WordPress. Outdated plugins can lead to security vulnerabilities and functionality issues.
• Developer reputation: Research the developer behind the plugin. Established developers with a good track record are more likely to provide reliable and well-maintained plugins.
• Support options: Look for plugins that offer robust support options, such as documentation, forums, or direct support channels. This can be crucial if you encounter issues.
• Compare similar plugins: If multiple plugins seem suitable, compare their features, pricing (if applicable), and user reviews to determine which one best fits your requirements.
• Consider Free vs Premium: Many plugins offer both free and premium versions. Start with free options to test functionality, but consider upgrading to premium for additional features and support as your site grows.

Best Practices for Using WordPress Plugins

When using WordPress plugins, following best practices is essential for maintaining security, performance, and overall site integrity. Here are key best practices to consider:

• Keep plugins updated: Regularly update your plugins to ensure you have the latest features and security patches. Outdated plugins can become vulnerable to attacks, so check for updates frequently and apply them promptly.
• Use trusted sources: Only install plugins from reputable developers or the official WordPress Plugin Directory. Check user reviews, ratings, and the number of active installations to gauge credibility.
• Limit plugin usage: Avoid overloading your site with too many plugins, as this can slow down performance and increase security risks. Only use essential plugins that add significant value to your site.
• Implement security measures: Install a security plugin to monitor your site for vulnerabilities and malicious activity. Plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri can provide essential protection features such as firewall settings and malware scanning34.
• Review user permissions: Limit user access based on roles and responsibilities. Only grant administrative privileges to trusted users to minimize the risk of unauthorized changes or security breaches.
• Conduct regular backups: Regularly back up your website to ensure you can restore it in case of a failure or security breach. Use backup plugins that automate this process for convenience.
• Sanitize user input: Always validate and sanitize user input to prevent vulnerabilities such as SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS). This practice helps protect your site from malicious attacks.
• Monitor performance: Keep an eye on your site’s performance after installing new plugins. If you notice slow loading times or other issues, consider removing or replacing problematic plugins3.
• Disable unused plugins: If you are not using a plugin, deactivate and uninstall it to reduce potential vulnerabilities and improve site performance

Common Issues with WordPress Plugins?

While WordPress plugins are a powerful tool to enhance your website’s functionality, they can sometimes lead to serious issues. Here are some common issues with WordPress plugins and how to resolve them:

Plugin Conflicts

Plugins may conflict with each other or with the active theme, leading to functionality issues. This can result in error messages, unexpected behavior, or even site crashes.

Solution: 

• Deactivate all plugins and reactivate them one by one to identify the conflicting plugins. 
• Once found, check for updates or consider alternatives.
• Use reliable sources for plugins, like the official WordPress Plugin Directory.
• Select actively developed plugins that quickly address security concerns.

Compatibility Issues

Plugins not updated for the latest version of WordPress can lead to compatibility problems, causing features to malfunction or resulting in security vulnerabilities. 

Solution: 

• Always ensure that your plugins are up to date. 
• If issues persist, check the plugin’s support forum for compatibility notices or revert to a previous version of WordPress.
• If the issue persists, explore alternative plugins with better compatibility.

Performance Issues

Some plugins, especially resource-intensive ones, can slow down your website, affecting load times and user experience.

Solution: 

• Use performance optimization plugins to analyze site speed and identify resource-heavy plugins. 
• Consider disabling or replacing any plugins that significantly impact performance.
• Only use essential plugins and regularly update plugins to optimize performance.   
• Compress images before uploading.   
• Improve website speed with a caching plugin like WP Super Cache or WP Rocket.   
• A reliable hosting provider can significantly impact performance.

White Screen of Death

This issue presents as a blank white page when accessing the site, usually indicating a PHP error or memory exhaustion caused by a plugin.

Solution: 

• Temporarily deactivate all plugins to identify the culprit.   
• If your website is resource-intensive, increase the PHP memory limit in your wp-config.php file.   
• Look for error messages in your WordPress error log.
• Seek assistance from your hosting provider for advanced troubleshooting.

Security Vulnerabilities

Many plugins are open source and may not come with guaranteed support from developers. If you encounter issues, you might not receive timely assistance, especially if the plugin has unresolved support threads in its repository

Solution: 

• Use reputable plugins with good reviews and regular updates. 
• Use strong, unique passwords for your WordPress admin account.   
• Consider using security plugins like Wordfence or iThemes Security.
• Create regular backups of your website to protect against data loss.

WordPress Plugin FAQs

Why Use WordPress Plugins

WordPress plugins extend the functionality of your website. They allow you to add features like contact forms, e-commerce capabilities, SEO optimization, and much more. By using plugins, you can customize your website without needing to code.

Where to Find Plugins After Installation?

Installed plugins are located in the “Plugins” section of your WP Admin dashboard. Navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins to find the list of active plugins. Click on the plugin name to access its settings page.

Are WordPress Plugins Safe?

Most plugins are safe,  it’s essential to exercise caution when installing and using them. However, always use the official WordPress plugin repository or trusted marketplaces, check plugin reviews and ratings, and compatibility to reduce risks.

Is it Possible to Use WordPress Plugins Without WordPress?

No, WordPress plugins are specifically designed to work within the WordPress environment. They rely on WordPress’s core functions and APIs to provide their functionality.

What is the Best Plugin for WordPress?

The “best” plugin depends on your specific needs and goals. Some top-rated plugins include Yoast SEO for search optimization, WooCommerce for eCommerce, and Elementor for easy page building.

How to Make a Plugin in WordPress?

Creating a WordPress plugin requires knowledge of PHP and WordPress development. Start by setting up a folder with a main PHP file, then write the code using PHP with hooks and filters as needed. Activate it in your dashboard, test for issues, and, if successful, consider sharing or selling it.

Wrapping Up

WordPress plugins extend the functionality of your WordPress site, allowing you to add new features or modify existing ones without needing to code, much like how apps enhance a smartphone.  

Remember to choose plugins wisely, keep them updated, and monitor their impact on your website’s performance. By following these best practices, you can harness the power of WordPress plugins to achieve your online goals.

Still, if you have any questions or confusion, feel free to leave a comment below.