đź“– How to Upload and Install a Plugin in WordPress (Beginner Guide)

Plugins are like “apps” for your WordPress website. They add extra features such as page builder, contact forms, SEO tools, galleries, or security. Here’s how you can upload and install one safely.

Step 1: Log into WordPress

  1. Open a web browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Safari).

  2. In the address bar, type your website address and add /wp-admin at the end.

    • Example: www.mywebsite.com/wp-admin

  3. Press Enter.

  4. You’ll see the WordPress login page.

  5. Enter your username and password (you created these when you set up WordPress or when your web host gave them to you).

  6. Click Log In.

You are now inside the WordPress Dashboard – this is the control panel where you manage your whole website.

Step 2: Go to the Plugins Section

  1. On the left-hand menu, look for Plugins.
  2. Hover your mouse over it and click Add New.

This takes you to the plugin installation page.

Step 3: Upload the Plugin

If you have already downloaded a plugin file (usually ending in .zip) from us, you can upload it, if not, please download the installation file firstly:

  1. At the top of the page, click the Upload Plugin button.
  2. A new option will appear with a Choose File button.
  3. Click Choose File and select the .zip plugin file from your computer.
  4. After selecting it, click the Install Now button.

Step 4: Install and Activate

  1. WordPress will now upload the file and install the plugin.
  2. When it finishes, you’ll see a message that the plugin has been installed successfully.
  3. Click the blue button Activate Plugin.

👉 Activating is important – installing alone is not enough. Only activated plugins work on your website.

Step 5: Configure the Plugin

  1. After activation, many plugins will add a new option in your WordPress menu (on the left side).

    • Example: An SEO plugin might add a menu called SEO.
    • A security plugin might add a menu called Security.

  2. Some plugins also add their settings under the Settings menu.

  3. Click on the new menu item and follow the instructions provided inside the plugin.