WordPress Plugins are apps that allow users to add new functionalities and features to a WordPress website.
Adding plugins is the same as downloading apps on a smartphone. What WP started as a simple tool to begin a blog, plugins have evolved it into a robust app framework and CMS. Currently, there are nearly 50,000 free plugins and thousands more available from 3rd party websites and many more sold by web developers.
How do WordPress Plugins Operate?
WordPress is written so that developers can add their own code. The plugin API offers robust filters and hooks, allowing developers to modify current WP functionality or add new ones. Additionally, developers can store data in the WP database, which is then registered there. You can also use WP content types, custom fields, taxonomies and freely activate or deactivate them.
WP connects to the database, loads the primary software, and loads your active plugins whenever you visit your site. All this code is handled on your server and sent to your browser.
WordPress Plugins Uses
Plugins are small software apps that combine with and run on WordPress software. This enables users to produce virtually any kind of site with WordPress and not just blogs. For example, with a plugin, you can:
- Set up an online store
- Build a job board
- Create a business directory
- Start a coupon-based website
- Make a photography website
- Establish a Wiki website
- Launch your own podcast website
- Improve SEO and boost performance
- Add contact forms and social media buttons
- Create galleries
- And more!
If a feature you need is not available in default WordPress, there is basically a plugin for everything you wish to do.
