When creating a site for a class, you will often be asked to use WordPress. You may also be considering WordPress for a personal project. But what exactly is WordPress?

Open-Source Content Management System (CMS)

WordPress is described as an Open-Source Content Management System or CMS. Open-Source software permits users to use, study, change, and distribute it and its code to anyone. Content management systems are software that allows users to create and modify digital content. This means that WordPress is software that will let its users create and modify digital content and then share it with anyone.

What is WordPress Used for?

WordPress is used to help users create and build their websites. (The website you currently are on is a great example of what you can do by using WordPress.)

What do I Need to Know to Use it?

WordPress is a great tool for beginners and more advanced users alike.

After initially installing it, WordPress will offer to walk you through some of the main features, such as adding text. WordPress’s website is a good source for learning more about how to use the software, alongside Domain of One’s Own Guides. You may also book a consultation with a DKC consultant who would happily walk you through learning how to use WordPress. If you don’t have an appointment, you can come in during the hours the DKC is open as a walk-in and be assisted as long as one of our consultants are free.

There are also two different forms of WordPress. One is Sites@UMW, and the other is Domain of One’s Own. Sites@UMW comes with limited customization features, such as only allowing a few plugins and themes, whereas, with Domain of One’s Own, you can install any plugin or theme you desire.

Common Misconceptions

There are a couple of common misconceptions when it comes to WordPress.

Just for Blogging

One misconception about the site is that WordPress is just used for blogging. However, since its creation, it has become equipped to deal with various types of sites. These include e-commerce sites, business websites, online portfolios, and more. However, when using WordPress from UMW, you cannot use the website to make money.

Security Fears

Some people believe that WordPress sites are not secure. While it is true that WordPress websites can suffer from security threats, usually this occurs only if users fail to maintain them properly. You will not have to worry about this if you use Sites@UMW.

UMW and WordPress

UMW offers two ways to use WordPress. One is Sites@UMW, and the other is Domain of One’s Own. They function differently, but both will allow you to use WordPress to build a website.

More Resources

To learn more about WordPress, you can visit WordPress’s website.