David Mkandhla

Introduction to WordPress- Part 1- Installation, Setup and Management

Introduction: Empowering Beginners to Master WordPress

WordPress is the most widely-used content management system (CMS) in the world, thanks to its flexibility and accessibility. Whether creating personal blogs, business websites, or complex platforms for property management, WordPress empowers users of all skill levels to build professional websites without needing advanced coding expertise.

For many beginners, however, the initial process of setting up WordPress, choosing plugins and themes, and managing site security can feel overwhelming. That’s why this tutorial exists: to guide you step by step, breaking down each stage of WordPress creation—from installation to optimization—with detailed explanations and real-world examples.

This guide goes beyond the basics, offering deep insights into site security, plugin management, theme customization, and advanced functionality. No matter what kind of website you’re creating—whether for a church, auto dealer, school, or real estate business—you’ll find the tools and knowledge you need here.

About the Author

I am David Mkandhla, a Johannesburg-based Webmaster with expertise in web design, graphics design, SEO copywriting, and social media management. I specialize in guiding beginners through the setup, customization, and optimization of WordPress websites using no-code techniques and practical solutions.

My approach emphasizes clear, actionable steps while introducing advanced strategies to enhance site security, speed, and functionality. From selecting themes to configuring plugins, I aim to empower you to create websites tailored to your needs. Explore my portfolio and learn more about my work at https://davidmkandhla.co.za.

1. Signing Into a Brand New cPanel

What Is cPanel and Why Is It Important?

cPanel is a web-based control panel provided by hosting companies to manage your server environment and website files. It’s the backend hub for everything related to your website—from installing WordPress to managing databases and configuring server settings.

How to Log In:

  1. Locate Your Hosting Provider’s Login Page: This URL is typically sent via email when you purchase hosting. Examples include yourhosting.com/cpanel.
  2. Enter Your Credentials: Input the username and password provided in the email. If you forget these details, use the “Forgot Password” feature or contact support.
  3. Explore the Dashboard Layout:
    • Files: Manage uploads, backups, and file structures.
    • Databases: Control MySQL databases that store your website’s data.
    • Software: Use tools like Softaculous to install WordPress and other applications.
    • Security: Set up SSL certificates, firewalls, and file permissions.

2. Installing WordPress

What Is WordPress?

WordPress is an open-source CMS that enables users to create, edit, and manage websites efficiently. With built-in tools for design, functionality, and SEO, it’s suitable for everything from blogs to e-commerce sites.

How to Install WordPress Using cPanel:

  1. Locate the Installer:
    • Use the Search Bar: Type “WordPress” in the cPanel search bar and select the result.
    • Navigate to Softaculous Apps Installer: Found under Software, Softaculous provides one-click installation.
    • Use WordPress Manager: A direct shortcut located under the Tools section.
  2. Select Installation Settings:
    • Choose Domain: Select the domain for installation (e.g., yourdomain.com). Specify a subfolder if needed (e.g., yourdomain.com/blog).
    • Select Protocol: Always choose https:// if your site has an SSL certificate.
    • Site Title and Tagline: Enter a name and description for your website (e.g., “David Mkandhla Portfolio” and “Empowering Websites with Expert Design”). These influence SEO and visibility.
    • Admin Credentials: Avoid “admin.” Create a unique username (e.g., “webmaster_david”) and a strong password (e.g., W3bSecur!ty21).
    • Admin Email: Provide an active email for updates and notifications.
  3. Advanced Configurations:
    • Database Name: Rename for clarity, or use the auto-generated one.
    • Disable Debug Mode: Leave this off unless troubleshooting.
  4. Complete Installation: Click Install and wait for confirmation. Access your dashboard at yourdomain.com/wp-admin.

3. Navigating the WordPress Dashboard

What Is the Dashboard?

The WordPress dashboard is the backend interface where you manage your website. It’s organized into sections, allowing you to control content, themes, plugins, settings, and more.

Dashboard Layout and Sections:

When you log into yourdomain.com/wp-admin, you’ll see:

  • Posts: Create and edit blog articles.
  • Pages: Add static content like an About Us page.
  • Media: Upload and manage images, videos, and files.
  • Appearance: Customize site design and layout.
  • Plugins: Add or manage functionalities for your site.
  • Settings: Adjust general configurations like site title and permalinks.

Key Navigation Tips:

Hover over menu items to reveal sub-options. Click the desired section to access its tools.

4. Customizing Your Website

What Is a Theme?

A theme is a collection of templates, stylesheets, and design settings that determine the overall look and layout of your WordPress website. It acts as the foundation of your site’s visual appearance and structure. Themes influence how elements like headers, footers, menus, fonts, colors, and page layouts are displayed.

Key Functions of a Theme:

  1. Visual Design: Controls the aesthetics of your site, from typography to color schemes.
  2. Site Layout: Defines the organization of content, such as sidebar placement, grid layouts, or fullscreen designs.
  3. Responsiveness: Adapts your site to work seamlessly across various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
  4. Customization Options: Offers flexibility to personalize your site without requiring coding knowledge.
  5. Built-In Features: Some themes come with preinstalled widgets, sliders, or even page builders tailored to specific industries.

How to Choose a Theme

Selecting the right theme is critical for creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional website. Below are practical steps to help you choose the best theme for your needs:

1. Identify Your Website’s Purpose:

Each website type has unique requirements. For example:

  • Business Websites: Need professional, clean layouts with service sections.
  • Portfolio Websites: Require image-focused designs to showcase projects.
  • E-Commerce Websites: Demand themes compatible with WooCommerce for seamless product management.
  • Educational Websites: Need compatibility with Learning Management Systems (LMS).

2. Focus on Lightweight Themes:

Lightweight themes such as Astra, GeneratePress, and Neve are optimized for speed, reducing load times and enhancing user experience. Avoid bulky themes with excessive features you may not need.

3. Look for Responsiveness:

Ensure your theme adapts to different screen sizes without compromising design quality. Use the theme’s demo page to test its responsiveness on various devices.

4. Customization Features:

Choose themes with versatile customization options, such as color pickers, font adjustments, and layout controls.

  • For simple edits, use the WordPress Customizer accessible via Appearance > Customize.
  • For advanced users, select themes that support child themes, ensuring that your modifications are preserved during updates.

5. Ensure Plugin Compatibility:

Verify that the theme supports popular plugins you intend to use, such as SEO tools, page builders, or e-commerce solutions.

6. Check for Support and Updates:

  • Confirm that the theme is regularly updated to stay compatible with the latest WordPress version.
  • Look for active developer support or community forums.

7. Test Before Committing:

Use the Live Preview option in WordPress to test a theme with your content before activating it permanently.

Installing a Theme in WordPress

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Theme:

  1. Access Themes:
    • Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
    • Navigate to Appearance > Themes and click Add New.
  2. Search for a Theme:
    • Use the search bar to find free themes available in the WordPress repository, such as Astra or GeneratePress.
  3. Preview the Theme:
    • Hover over the theme you’re interested in and select Live Preview to see how it would look with your content.
  4. Activate the Theme:
    • Once satisfied with the preview, click Activate to apply the theme to your site.
  5. Upload a Premium Theme:
    • If you’ve purchased a premium theme, download its .zip file from the provider’s website.
    • Return to Appearance > Themes and click Upload Theme.
    • Select the .zip file, upload it, and activate it after installation.

Customizing Themes

WordPress allows extensive customization to align your website with your brand identity and user needs. Below are customization methods ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced techniques:

1. Using the WordPress Customizer

The Customizer is an easy-to-use tool available under Appearance > Customize. It offers a live preview of your changes before publishing.

Customization Options Available in the WordPress Customizer:

  • Site Identity: Update your site title, tagline, and logo.
  • Colors: Adjust primary, background, and text colors to match your brand.
  • Menus: Create, edit, and assign navigation menus to specific areas of the site.
  • Homepage Settings: Set a static homepage or display your latest posts.
  • Widgets: Add sidebar elements like recent posts, search bars, or custom HTML.

2. Using Theme-Specific Options

Some themes come with dedicated customization panels outside the Customizer. These may include additional controls for:

  • Header and footer layouts.
  • Typography (font size, family, and spacing).
  • Animation and transition effects.

Access these options under Appearance > Theme Options or similar menu items.

3. Advanced Edits Using Child Themes

Child themes inherit the functionality and styling of parent themes. They allow you to make modifications without risking updates overwriting your changes.

How to Create a Child Theme:

  1. Create a new folder in the wp-content/themes directory. Name it appropriately, e.g., astra-child.
  2. Add a style.css file with the following content:

css

/*

Theme Name: Astra Child

Template: astra

*/

  1. Create a functions.php file to enqueue the parent theme’s styles:

php

<?php

add_action('wp_enqueue_scripts', 'enqueue_parent_styles');

function enqueue_parent_styles() {

    wp_enqueue_style('parent-style', get_template_directory_uri() . '/style.css');

}

  1. Upload the files to your WordPress server via FTP or File Manager.
  2. Activate the child theme via Appearance > Themes.

4. Customization via Full Site Editing (FSE)

Block-based themes like Twenty Twenty-Three support Full Site Editing. This feature allows you to:

  • Edit headers and footers directly in the Gutenberg editor.
  • Customize global styles and block templates.

Best Practices for Managing Themes

  1. Keep It Simple: Avoid complex themes overloaded with unnecessary features. They can slow down your site.
  2. Stick to One Theme: Activate only one theme at a time. Unused themes should be deleted to reduce security risks and clutter.
  3. Regular Updates: Keep your theme updated to ensure compatibility with the latest WordPress version.
  4. Backup Before Changes: Always back up your site before making major design changes.

5. Enhancing Functionality with Plugins

What Are Plugins?

Plugins are software components that extend WordPress functionality, enabling users to add features without requiring custom coding. They serve as add-ons to enhance the user experience, automate tasks, and meet the unique requirements of different website types.

Key Features of Plugins:

  1. Extend Functionality: Add capabilities like SEO tools, forms, and sliders.
  2. Tailor Websites: Customize functionality to suit your site's purpose, such as e-commerce or educational platforms.
  3. Simplify Operations: Automate repetitive tasks like backups, analytics, and security scanning.
  4. User-Friendly: Install, configure, and manage from the WordPress dashboard.

How to Add and Manage Plugins

1. Adding a Plugin

  1. Access Plugins Menu:
    • From the WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins > Add New.
  2. Search Plugins:
    • Use the search bar to find specific plugins (e.g., "Yoast SEO").
  3. Install Plugins:
    • Click Install Now next to the desired plugin.
  4. Activate Plugins:
    • After installation, click Activate to enable the plugin’s functionality.

2. Managing Installed Plugins

  1. View Installed Plugins:
    • Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins for a list of active and inactive plugins.
  2. Configure Settings:
    • Click the "Settings" link under each plugin to access configuration options.
  3. Deactivate or Delete Plugins:
    • Deactivate plugins you no longer use, and delete those you don’t plan to reactivate.

Categories of Plugin Functionality

Plugins can be grouped into key categories based on their purpose. Below, we provide detailed examples for each:

1. Security Plugins

  • Purpose: Prevent unauthorized access, protect against malware, and monitor threats.
  • Examples:
    • Wordfence Security: Real-time malware scanning and firewalls.
    • Sucuri Security: DNS-level monitoring and malware cleaning.
    • iThemes Security: Login hardening and file change detection.

2. SEO Plugins

  • Purpose: Optimize website content and structure for search engines.
  • Examples:
    • Rank Math: Focus keyword suggestions and advanced schema tools.
    • Yoast SEO: Meta descriptions, readability analysis, and XML sitemaps.
    • All in One SEO: Simplified SEO configurations for beginners.

3. Backup Plugins

  • Purpose: Automate regular backups to ensure data security.
  • Examples:
    • UpdraftPlus: Save backups to cloud storage services.
    • All-in-One WP Migration: Simplifies full-site backups and migrations.
    • BackupBuddy: Combines backups with malware scanning.

4. Front-End Design Plugins (Page Builders)

  • Purpose: Create layouts and designs without coding.
  • Examples:
    • Brizy: Lightweight drag-and-drop page builder.
    • Elementor: Advanced design options and widget libraries.
    • Divi Builder: Combines theme customization with visual editing tools.

5. Specialized Plugins by Website Type

Property Websites

For real estate businesses, plugins enable listing displays, galleries, and search filters.

  • Examples:
    • Estatik: Advanced property listings and mapping features.
    • RealHomes: Pre-built templates and search tools for real estate.

E-Commerce Websites

Manage products, inventory, and payments.

  • Examples:
    • WooCommerce: The leading e-commerce solution for WordPress.

Church Websites

Add event management, sermon libraries, and donation tools.

  • Examples:
    • WP Church Manager: Manage events, sermons, and memberships.

School Websites (LMS)

Enable learning management systems for course delivery and tracking.

  • Examples:
    • Tutor LMS: Build and sell online courses.

Auto Dealer Websites

Streamline vehicle inventory and listings.

  • Examples:
    • Auto Listings: Integrates search filters and map-based inventory.

Forms and Calculators

Enhance user interactivity through dynamic forms and tools.

  • Examples:
    • Gravity Forms: Complex forms and surveys.
    • Price Calculator: Ideal for estimating costs (e.g., loans or properties).

Reducing Plugin Dependence

Minimizing Plugins:

  1. Evaluate Plugins Carefully: Prioritize multi-functional plugins over single-purpose ones.
  2. Use Native WordPress Features: Leverage built-in tools, such as Custom Post Types, instead of installing new plugins.
  3. Code Custom Solutions: For specific needs, add functionality using the functions.php file.

Performance Impact:

  • Improves Site Speed: Fewer plugins reduce server load, ensuring faster page load times.
  • Enhances Security: Minimizes risk from poorly-coded or outdated plugins.

6. WordPress Default Security Measures

WordPress includes robust security features to protect your site before introducing plugins. These default settings, if configured properly, can handle many security tasks independently.

Accessing Default Security Measures

Via WordPress Dashboard

  1. Log In:
    • Access your site at yourdomain.com/wp-admin.
  2. Site Health Tool:
    • Navigate to Tools > Site Health for security recommendations.

Via cPanel

  1. Log In:
    • Use the cPanel login URL provided by your host (e.g., yourhosting.com/cpanel).
  2. Softaculous Security Features:
    • Go to Softaculous > Security Measures to enable additional protections.
  3. File Manager for Manual Edits:
    • Edit the wp-config.php and .htaccess files for advanced configurations.

List of Default Security Features and Configuration Steps

1. Change Default Admin Username:

  • Rename "admin" to reduce exposure to brute force attacks.
  • Steps: Navigate to Users > Add New User. Create a new admin account, then delete the default account.

2. Disable File Editing in the Dashboard:

  • Prevent unauthorized users from editing theme/plugin files.
  • Steps: Add this line to wp-config.php:

php

define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

3. Block Access to xmlrpc.php:

  • xmlrpc.php is often targeted in brute force attacks.
  • Steps: Use .htaccess to block access:

apache

<Files xmlrpc.php>

Order Allow,Deny

Deny from all

</Files>

4. Restrict File Permissions:

  • Limit permissions for critical files (e.g., .htaccess and wp-config.php).
  • Steps: Set file permissions to 440 or 444 via the cPanel File Manager.

5. Enable Bot Protection:

  • Block suspicious IPs using Softaculous settings or WordPress tools.

6. Disable Directory Browsing:

  • Hide directory structures from public view.
  • Steps: Edit .htaccess:

apache

Options -Indexes

7. Restrict PHP Execution:

  • Block PHP script execution in wp-includes and wp-content/uploads.
  • Steps: Add the following to .htaccess:

apache

<Files *.php>

deny from all

</Files>

Do You Still Need Security Plugins?

Built-In Features That Reduce Plugin Needs:

  • File editing restrictions.
  • Bot protection.
  • Directory browsing prevention.

When Plugins Are Essential:

  • Advanced Threat Monitoring: Tools like Wordfence track real-time traffic for potential risks.
  • Malware Scanning: Dedicated plugins detect hidden malware across your site.

7. Real-Life Scenarios

Real-world applications of WordPress differ based on the website type and the features required. Below are specific examples where WordPress features and plugins play critical roles:

Property Websites

Real estate websites require functionality for property listings, advanced search filters, and interactive galleries.

  • Key Features:
    • Display property photos and details with map integrations.
    • Provide search filters for price ranges, locations, and property types.
  • Recommended Plugins:
    • Estatik: Create responsive listings with advanced filtering options.
    • WP Property: Offers pre-built templates for property categories and amenities.

Church Websites

Church websites often serve as community hubs, offering sermon recordings, event calendars, and donation systems.

  • Key Features:
    • Host sermon archives with audio/video integration.
    • Manage event schedules for church gatherings, fundraisers, and outreach programs.
  • Recommended Plugins:
    • WP Church Manager: Organizes sermons, events, and staff profiles.
    • GiveWP: Facilitates online donations and recurring giving.
    • Event Calendar Plugin: Streamlines event planning and registrations.

Auto Dealer Websites

Auto dealer websites focus on inventory management, search filters, and map-based listings.

  • Key Features:
    • Showcase vehicle details, including price and specifications.
    • Provide dynamic filtering for make, model, and year.
  • Recommended Plugins:
    • Auto Listings: Offers detailed vehicle inventory management.
    • Car Dealer Pro: Enables advanced vehicle search functionalities.

Educational Websites

School websites require interactive learning tools, progress tracking, and multimedia course delivery.

  • Key Features:
    • Deliver multimedia content such as videos and PDFs.
    • Track student progress and provide certificates.
  • Recommended Plugins:
    • LearnDash: Comprehensive LMS plugin for creating and selling courses.
    • Tutor LMS: Simplifies course creation with an intuitive interface.

E-Commerce Websites

E-commerce websites need tools for product management, payment gateways, and shipping integrations.

  • Key Features:
    • Manage inventory and display product catalogs.
    • Integrate payment systems like PayPal or Stripe.
  • Recommended Plugin:
    • WooCommerce: The go-to solution for building online stores.

8. Optimizing Your WordPress Site

Optimization ensures your site performs efficiently while providing a smooth user experience. This includes improving speed, ensuring security, and maintaining reliability.

Speed Optimization

Improve Site Speed:

  1. Caching: Reduce load times by storing static copies of pages.
    • Recommended Plugins: WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache.
  2. Image Optimization: Compress images without sacrificing quality.
    • Recommended Plugins: Smush, ShortPixel Image Optimizer.
  3. Minify CSS, JavaScript, and HTML:
    • Reduce file size to boost page load speed.
    • Recommended Plugin: Autoptimize.

Hosting and Server Optimization:

  • Choose hosting providers that offer SSD storage and optimized servers (e.g., SiteGround, Bluehost).
  • Enable server-level caching for faster performance.

Security Optimization

Implement Essential Security Measures:

  1. Change default admin username and password to prevent brute force attacks.
  2. Use SSL certificates for encrypted communication (mandatory for e-commerce websites).
  3. Regularly monitor for malware using security plugins.

Recommended Plugins:

  • Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security.

Content Optimization

Ensure High-Quality Content:

  • Create engaging and informative posts, focusing on your target audience’s needs.
  • Optimize headlines and meta descriptions with SEO plugins.

Implement Internal Linking:

  • Link to related pages within your site to improve navigation and reduce bounce rates.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Schedule Regular Backups:

  • Automate backups to ensure data recovery during emergencies.
  • Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or All-in-One WP Migration.

Update Themes, Plugins, and WordPress Core:

  • Regular updates minimize vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility.

Monitor Site Performance:

  • Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to analyze loading times and identify improvements.

Final Thoughts on Optimization

Optimization is an ongoing process, requiring attention to speed, security, and content quality. By implementing the strategies discussed, you’ll ensure your WordPress website remains efficient, secure, and user-friendly.

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