How To Install WordPress Plugins With HostGator
The WordPress.org software is a very stripped down, basic program. If you want to install ads, track users, or do a number of things other than simply write posts, you’ll need to install plugins. While installing plugins is more or less the same as installing new WordPress themes, there are a few differences, and almost every one is different.
#1- Download the plugins that you want to install on WordPress. It doesn’t matter if it’s a free WordPress plugin or if you paid for it, just make sure that you download it to a folder that you can easily find later. Tip: I make a new folder for Wordpress, and then a folder inside that labeled “plugins”.
#2- Open your HostGator CPanel and sign in. There should be a link provided in your welcome email.
#3- Open “File Manager”. It should be the second from the left on the second line. The icon has a kind of landscape look to it.
#4- Open the folder marked “www”. The folder should be just above the file marked “create new file”.
#5- Click on the folder marked “wp-content” if you’re installing the WordPress plugin on your main domain. If you’re installing the plugin on a secondary domain, open the folder for that domain first and then open the wp-content folder.
#6- Open the folder marked “plugins”.
#7- Click on “upload file(s)”. It’s marked with a big arrow pointing upwards.
#8- Use the browse button to find the plugin download. Click upload.
#9- Click on the plugin file that you just uploaded and click “extract”. The extract link is on the far right in the upper corner. Close the window that pops up.
#10- Open WordPress and go to the dashboard. Click on “Plugins”. You should see your new plugin as one of the selections.
#11- Click “Activate”. At this point a window may pop up and instruct you to enter your API key. (Click here to find out where to get your API key).
You’re done! Plugins may be installed in many places. Some, like Slylock Adsense or WP Amazon will be found under “options”, and others such as the Stats plugin can be found within the Dashboard. Check your “ReadMe” file that comes with your plugin download for specific instructions.
If you’re having difficulty setting up your WordPress built website, click here to see the rest of my WordPress articles, or try these videos. I haven’t ordered the program, but if the videos are as good as the example video, it’ll be well worth the money.
