Introduction to the WordPress Installation Guide
Installing WordPress is often straightforward thanks to the tools provided by hosting companies. However, when embarking on this task, there are many details to consider for optimal setup and performance. In this “WordPress Installation Guide”, we’ll explore how to install WordPress via Plesk, share valuable tips, recommend handy plugins, and outline what to keep an eye on for a smooth and efficient setup.
How to Install WordPress
This section is aimed at those who are setting up a WordPress site for the first time. If you’re already experienced, the following sections like “Considerations for WordPress Installation” and the ones further down this “WordPress Installation Guide”, delve into more nuanced tips related to efficiency and quality.
Connect Your Domain to Your Hosting
A domain name and hosting are prerequisites for installing WordPress. If purchased together, they’re likely already linked. If separate, adjust your domain’s DNS or nameservers to point to your hosting.
Create a New Website in Plesk
Logging into Plesk, you’ll start at “Websites & Domains.” Add your domain by selecting “Add Domain” and then WordPress. Use the domain name previously established, select your space (typically one option), choose “Website Hosting” as the type, and decide on mail service settings and domain prefix preferences. The default settings are usually correct. Proceed to initiate the WordPress installation wizard, adjusting Title, Version, user information (make sure to use a secure password for the safety of you site) and adjust the Database settings optionally. Emphasize HTTPS for secure access and click “Install” to commence.
Secure Your Website
During WordPress setup, decline default plugin installations as these often serve promotional purposes. Next, navigate to “SSL/TLS Certificates” under your domain and press install under the Let’s Encrypt option. Choose standard options and email validations as necessary. Failure may indicate DNS/nameserver issues, requiring time to resolve. Try later when the records are recognised or correct the DNS/nameserver records.
Considerations for WordPress Installation
Visibility to Search Engines
When you install WordPress, you likely don’t have a website ready to import. Ensure you’re not indexed by Google until then, as it might affect your ranking for content you don’t intend to publish. Navigate to Settings > Reading and disable the Search Engine Visibility option. Reactivate it only after completing your website and when you’re ready to launch.
Default Themes and Plugins
Despite clicking on not to install any default plugins while installing in Plesk or another tool, WordPress still installs a few plugins and themes. These should be removed if you’re not using them, as these plugins and themes will only cause more storage and server lag, even if they are not activated.
Disable Comments
Originally designed for blogging, WordPress has comments enabled by default. Disabling comments if unused is crucial, as they’re often exploited by phishing systems and hackers. Navigate to Settings > Discussion, uncheck “Allow people to post comments on new articles,” and remove the default comment under “Comments” in the sidebar.
Efficient Multi-Site Setup
If you’re setting up multiple websites, especially as a web developer creating sites for clients, it’s useful to devise a procedure for efficiency and correctness. Often, immediate access to the domain isn’t available or an old website is still running. In such cases, consider installing WordPress locally, creating subdomains, or reserving domain names. Once the site is ready, tools like All-in-One WP Migration can easily import it to the new environment. If changing servers, ignore the first installation step described above and use a tool like Switch Host to prepare the new environment. Change DNS and nameservers only at launch for a smooth transition. However, remember that SSL certificates can’t be requested until DNS/nameservers are recognized.
Essential Plugins
- Elementor: A robust page builder for comprehensive site design and the best one on the market right now.
- RankMath SEO: Superior for SEO management, offering a user-friendly interface, clear instructions and everything you need in one.
- Resize Control: Crucial for optimizing image sizes and compression, maintaining site speed and cleanliness. Better than the standard media optimize options that Elementor offers.
- WP Mail SMTP: Ensures reliable email delivery, preventing spam flagging and other issues.
Conclusion
The complexity of WordPress installation varies by the user’s expertise and site requirements. The tips from this WordPress Installation Guide are the foundation, not exhaustive, suitable for all site types. Adapt and enhance this guide to suit your specific needs for an efficient WordPress setup process.