If you’ve ever dabbled in e-commerce, then you know that WooCommerce is one of the best platforms for creating an online shop.

This open-source WordPress plugin is easy to install and super flexible. It’s great for beginners, and powerful enough for website owners who want full control.

Many developers now offer specialized WooCommerce themes, allowing you to set up a professional storefront in minutes and easily customize it. If you’re thinking about building an online store, these templates can save a lot of time.

Not sure which one to choose? With some expert insights from top developers, we’ve identified 10 WooCommerce themes that will increase your traffic and drum up more sales.

The 10 Best WooCommerce Themes You Can Get Today

With the e-commerce industry projected to generate a staggering $6.3 trillion worldwide this year, now is a great time to get your online shop up and running. Perhaps the easiest way to achieve this is by setting up a WordPress site, installing WooCommerce, and grabbing a great theme.

Here are 10 WooCommerce themes we recommend for your e-commerce store:

1. Neve

Over time, more and more websites are built using page builders. Elementor alone can be found on 14% of WordPress sites. It’s easy to see why — these plugins allow you to create the perfect design without writing any custom CSS.

Neve is a lightweight, modern theme made for drag-and-drop editing. It offers impressive integrations with popular page builders like Elementor, Brizy, Beaver Builder, Divi Builder, and Thrive Architect— so you can choose your favorite tool and get to work!

Just as importantly, Neve has a very close relationship with WooCommerce.

The pro version of this theme offers quick-view pop-ups, floating mini carts, product sliders, and multiple catalog layouts. Off-canvas sidebar menus help customers find what they’re looking for, and you can maximize conversions by switching up your checkout layout. The list of features matches that of any dedicated WooCommerce theme.

The beauty of Neve is that you don’t need a page builder to use it. The theme provides plenty of design options, from alternative blog layouts and custom header designs to typography and theme colors. You also have over 100 starter templates to choose from.

Under the hood, the code is super clean. This theme hits 100% on Google PageSpeed, and it weighs only 28KB on a default WordPress install.

No wonder Neve has been installed on over 30,000 sites to date.

Key features:

• Works with multiple drag-and-drop builders.
• Deep integration with WooCommerce.
• Good speed optimization.

Price: Freemium; WooCommerce features require a premium license starting at $69/year.

2. Make

Not yet fluent in code? That’s not a problem with Make, a highly customizable theme that’s user-friendly for website owners of all technical abilities.

“E-commerce is super easy with Make,” says Scott Rollo, a designer from The Theme Foundry. “We don’t just support popular e-commerce plugins, we’ve actually designed fully integrated WooCommerce and Easy Digital Downloads builder sections. Make users just install their favorite plugin, and a new e-commerce section appears which they can tweak and drag and drop into place.”

Convenient, right? Better still, Make comes pre-installed for DreamPress customers. Score!

Make’s ease of use allows even beginners to create and maintain an attractive online store. And you can count on the quality of this theme — After all, it’s been refined more than 5,000 times.

“Make is different from a lot of ‘page builders’ out there,” says Rollo. “It’s completely free and open source. And we’ve seen nearly 800,000 makers start their business sites with it.”

It’s an impressive record, built on some excellent work behind the scenes. “We like to think that’s because we make a point of writing rock-solid code that lives up to the high expectations of the WordPress community,” says Rollo. “We don’t use shortcodes, and we keep the design of Make as close to WordPress’ core styles as possible. We really want Make users to feel right at home from the get-go.”

Along with being easy to use, Make is mobile-friendly. The theme features a responsive design, with a grid-based structure that renders perfectly on all screens.

This could be really important for your business.

Mobile e-commerce generated $2.2 trillion in 2023, accounting for around 60% of all online sales. Given the importance of smartphone shopping, it’s no surprise that 40% of consumers say they would switch to a competitor if they had a bad experience. In fact, 84% of shoppers say they have struggled to make purchases on their phones.

Choosing a theme like Make can help you avoid the pitfalls and capitalize on rival sites’ shortcomings.

Key features:

• Very easy to set up.
• Open source with over 5,000 iterations.
• Mobile-first design.

Price: Freemium

3. Flatsome

Branding is super important in e-commerce. Research shows that 62% of consumers factor brand values into their purchase decisions, outweighing discounts (26%) considerably.

If you want your online brand to attract customers, it’s key to create a visually distinctive store. With a remarkable selection of customization options, Flatsome is a premium WooCommerce theme that helps you achieve the perfect look.

From the extensive theme options panel to the header builder tool, this theme allows WooCommerce store owners to tweak every part of their site.

For site owners who want to get creative, Flatsome offers a raft of elegant e-commerce design elements. For instance, you can choose from various product gallery styles, set up a mini shopping cart so customers can see what they’re buying, and work with section dividers in multiple shapes.

All of these shop elements can be added and rearranged using UX Builder — a front-end page builder made by UX Themes, the team behind Flatsome.

If that sounds like too much work, take heart. There’s a low-effort route — Flatsome comes with a library of over 300 custom layouts, covering a range of different store styles.

Even with all these features, Flatsome is a very lightweight theme. It hits 98/100 on Google PageSpeed, meaning visitors shouldn’t have to wait long to shop. That’s big news, considering that e-commerce conversion rates drop by up to 4.42% with every extra second of loading time.

When you add up the benefits, it’s easy to see why Flatsome lays claim to the title of best-selling WooCommerce theme on ThemeForest.

Key features:

• Proprietary page builder tool.
• Over 300 layout templates.
• Excellent performance.

Price: $59 one-time payment, including free lifetime updates.

4. Astra

Here’s a secret: you don’t actually need a dedicated WooCommerce design to set up a slick online store. The e-commerce plugin works just fine with most multipurpose themes.

Astra is one of our favorite themes in this category. It’s as fast as Usain Bolt on a Harley Davidson, versatile enough to handle pretty much any website build, and is fully compatible with WooCommerce. Plus, the base version is completely free.

Astra was designed to be used with popular page builders, like Beaver Builder and Elementor. As such, the base template is very clean and simple. With a brand new WordPress site, the theme will load in just 0.5 seconds.

That said, you have plenty of theme customization options to play with. You don’t need to mess with any code to choose custom colors and fonts. With the premium version of the theme, Astra Pro, you can also unlock multiple header and footer layouts, extended gallery options, and one-step checkouts.

For aspiring store owners on a time budget, Astra also provides a vast library of starter site templates. With a couple of clicks, you can install a complete layout that suits your style.

The pedigree of this theme is important, too. Astra was made by Brainstorm Force, a team of developers who’ve been creating popular WordPress plugins since 2009.

The company built Astra back in 2017 to solve their own problems, and it shows. Thanks to that extra TLC, the theme is now being used for 1,200 new websites every day, with over 1.6 million total active installs.

Key features:

• Very, very lightweight base theme.
• Great built-in theme options.
• Deep integration with major page builders.

Price: Freemium

5. Botiga

They say good things come in threes: musketeers, primary colors, Lord of the Rings movies…the list goes on.

The Botiga theme proves no exception to the rule.

This feature-packed WooCommerce template hits the trifecta: blazing performance, extensive customization options, and seamless integration with popular page builders. It’s basically the Swiss Army knife of WordPress themes.

Botiga absolutely excels in terms of speed. We’re talking lightning-fast loading that’ll have customers zipping through your digital aisles with reckless abandon.

But impressive load times are just the opening salvo.

Where Botiga truly flexes its muscles is with its suite of customization controls that put you squarely in the driver’s seat of your e-commerce empire.

We particularly like the variety of product card styles and checkout designs, but you can also fiddle with fonts, shuffle between custom layouts, and use the built-in header and footer builders. All these options are neatly organized within the theme options panel.

And for website owners who are hungry for control, there’s more. Botiga plays nicely with page builders like Elementor and the WordPress Block Editor, making it easy to whip up an e-commerce masterpiece.

The free version of Botiga includes all of the above. Purchase a premium license, and you can unlock wishlists, color swatches, size charts, and many other useful features that shoppers will love.

Key features:

• Impressive performance (loads in <0.5 seconds).
• Endless customization options.
• Works well with Elementor.

Price: Freemium

6. Woostroid

You can have too much of a good thing — like chocolate, or Netflix. However, in the business of e-commerce, having too many sales-boosting features is never a bad thing.

And that’s what you get with Woostroid, a WooCommerce-friendly template from Template Monster. Now in version two, this theme is adaptable, simple, and paired with 24/7 user support. “It is easy to use, even as a beginner,” says Max Deep of Jetimpex. “Almost anyone will be able to add content and create different page layouts with the intuitive drag-and-drop page builder.”

And that’s not all.

“The Woostroid template comes SEO optimized, providing smooth promotion for online store and business websites,” says Deep. “And considerable attention is given to user experience. Our team equipped Woostroid with a classy design, and flexible appearance settings, to give the users the true power of choice.”

This mix of features means you can put your best foot forward to potential customers.

“A website is a kind of calling card that represents its owner,” says Deep. “And in our case, the owner has all the means to make his or her online store stand out from the others and attract tons of attention. One of the most important factors in choosing a template is its wide functionality, as well as its efficiency. All these features can be found in Woostroid.”

Key features:

• Easy setup with drag-and-drop.
• SEO-optimized for visibility.
• Flexible and sophisticated design.

Price: One-time fee of $84.

7. Avalon

From boutique WordPress theme development firm Anariel Design comes the WooCommerce block theme Avalon.

Something we appreciate about Avalon is that it prioritizes accessibility for folks who may not have tons of time or tech savvy — all without skimping on power or customizability.

We say that because of how easy its builders have made it to start working with Avalon. A built-in import wizard means you can add the entire demo right to your site in a few clicks, content, layouts, and all.

Once you’re up and running with Avalon, you’ll be able to take advantage of lots of other features. Of course, there’s nearly endless flexibility in the colors, button design, type choices, and every other element of the overall look. Accessibility and translatability are core to the theme’s design, so you don’t ever have to worry about alienating any part of your audience. On top of that, Avalon was created with mobile users in mind, making it highly responsive no matter what kind of device your target consumer is using.

Bloat-busting design means you can also expect quick performance. If anything does go wrong, Anariel Design is equipped with tons of documentation for each theme, along with helpful videos, answers to their most common FAQs, and a support system that promises an answer within 24 hours during the business week.

Key features:

• Easy-to-import demo template.
• Robust documentation and support (especially for a small agency).
• Unique focus on accessibility and translation.

Price: $79/year subscription or a one-time purchase of $179.

8. Woostify

Imagine heading to your local hardware store with a list in hand.

The items you need are spread throughout the store. Unfortunately, the lack of signage makes it really hard to navigate. You wander around for 15 minutes, searching for your items in vain. It’s a frustrating experience, and likely to make you think twice about returning.

The same principle applies to your website. A whopping 88% of shoppers are less likely to visit after a bad user experience, and mobile users are 62% less likely to make a future purchase.If you want to avoid these pitfalls, Woostify might be the right theme for your store.

This lightweight theme is built for performance, boasting impressive load times and minimal resource usage. That means your customers won’t be left drumming their fingers while your pages load.

But don’t let the trimmed-down footprint fool you. Woostify hasn’t achieved its slender physique by skimping on gym time. Beneath that minimalist exterior, this e-commerce theme has plenty of power.

As a store owner, you can choose from multiple product page styles, listing layouts, and checkout workflows. You can also configure different cart layouts, set up video galleries, and use the live theme customizer to select color options. All of these features are included in the free theme.

The premium version of Woostify provides plenty more: mega menus, smart product filters, Elementor integration, cross-selling, custom widgets, and more. If you don’t fancy setting up these features yourself, you can just use one of the provided starter sites instead.

To top it off, Woostify is ready to go global. The theme supports translations and RTL scripts, so you can create a welcoming site for customers around the globe.

Key features:

• Modern design for excellent user experience.
• Almost endless e-commerce features.
• Supports translations for worldwide selling.

Price: Freemium

9. Divi

No list of WordPress themes would be complete without mentioning Divi.

Used on 3.8 million sites, this highly flexible theme set the scene for the page builders we see today. It truly is the granddaddy of drag-and-drop templates.

As you might expect, the modern version of Divi offers plenty of customization options. The live front-end editor allows you to tweak every aspect of your site, and see the changes in real-time. That includes spacing, animations, image effects, and much more.

The same kind of granular control extends to WooCommerce setups. Divi offers tight integration, with hundreds of design elements to play with.

You can also add extra functionality through modules. These add-ons allow you to introduce product listings, cart pages, checkout processes, and more. You can drag and drop these modules into place to build your store piece by piece, or use Divi’s pre-built layouts and templates as a starting point.

Beyond the design of your store, Divi offers some great tools for sellers. The theme comes with built-in marketing and lead generation features, such as split testing, conditional display, email list building, and social sharing integrations.

All this bulk means you might sacrifice a little speed. But much like a monster truck, this theme could help you flatten the competition.

Key features:

• Powerful visual editor with hundreds of elements.
• Live editor for styling.
• Built-in marketing and lead gen tools.

Price: $89/year

10. Porto

When you’re just starting out, keeping things simple makes sense. But for established sellers, it’s worth choosing a theme that’s loaded with useful features. This means you can scale your store using the tools already baked into your chosen template, rather than relying on plugins.

That is what you can expect from Porto, one of the top-selling WooCommerce themes on ThemeForest.

This premium theme is loaded with a mind-boggling array of features, covering both the basic design of your site and other e-commerce aspects.

The foundation of Porto is the WPBakery page builder and is also compatible with Elementor, which offers powerful drag-and-drop editing. This tool comes with a huge selection of elements, from social media icons to image carousels.

As you construct your site, you have the option to start from scratch or install one of the many pre-built demos. The latter option is particularly useful if your store fits one of the starter sites, which include fashion clothing stores, jewelry brands, and gadget stores.

Phew, that’s a lot of features. And we haven’t even talked about WooCommerce yet!

Porto offers tight integration with our favorite e-commerce plugin. You can adjust pretty much every aspect of the shopping experience, from how product details are presented to shipment tracking. Live product search is a standout option here, allowing your customers to find exactly what they want.

It’s also cool to see artificial intelligence in a WordPress theme. Porto can now generate SEO-optimized content for you, which should help you to start selling faster.

The downside of all this functionality is extra complexity behind the scenes. Thankfully, we’re glad to note that Porto comes with extensive theme documentation and good technical support.

While it might take a while to understand this theme, it should provide a return on your time investment in the long run.

Key features:

• Vast array of customization options.
• Strong WooCommerce integrations.
• Extensive theme documentation.

Price: $59 one-time payment, including updates.

Choosing The Right WooCommerce Theme For Your Store

All of the themes mentioned above are capable of powering a successful online store. The question is, which one is right for your e-commerce project?

Here are the key factors to think about when making your final decision:

• Your niche: Think about the main audience you are targeting with your online store. Are you selling physical products or digital products? Will you need features like product filters, wishlists, or pre-orders? Some themes cater better to certain types of stores.
• Design and branding: Customization options are crucial for creating a site that resonates with your audience. Consider the style, layout options, color schemes, and whether the template feels like a good fit.
• Performance: Site speed and mobile optimization are essential for delivering a good user experience. Look for lightweight, fast-loading themes with responsive designs that work well on any device.
• Ease of use: If you’re not technically inclined, look for a user-friendly theme that has a drag-and-drop editor or simple theme options. With freemium themes, you can install the free version to test the backend yourself.
• Features: Make a list of must-have features like product galleries, mini-carts, custom checkouts, and page builders. Ensure your chosen theme has those capabilities covered, or you can add them via plugins.
• Support: Reliable support and regular updates are vital for keeping your site working properly. Check each theme’s ratings and documentation, along with reviews of the developer.
• Cost: Finally, consider your budget. Many great free themes exist, but premium themes often unlock more advanced features. This can be a worthwhile investment in the longer term.

With these principles in mind, here’s a recap of the top WooCommerce themes mentioned in our guide:

Ready To Woo?

Whether you’re new to the e-commerce game or just setting up yet another store, WooCommerce provides a great foundation.

Part of the appeal is the range of Woo-optimized themes available today. Choose wisely, and you should have everything you need to deliver a great online shopping experience.

Just remember that even the best themes rely on solid hosting. If you’re looking for a reliable home for your online business, DreamHost can help.

Our dedicated WordPress hosting plans make it child’s play to set up and maintain your store, with servers that are optimized for speed. You also get one-click staging, powerful caching, managed updates, and 24/7 expert support. Sign up today to see how easy it can be to build a thriving online storefront!

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The post The 10 Best WooCommerce Themes For Your Online Store (Reviewed) appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

But wait a second — No need to panic. There are actually several methods of removing the error or increasing the maximum execution time.

In this ever-so-simple guide, we’ll look at what the WordPress maximum execution time error is, and why it happens. Then we’ll walk you through six methods you can use to solve the problem and keep your site running like a well-oiled machine. Here’s the setlist:

• Uninstall problem software
• Use a plugin
• Adjust the wp-config.php file
• Update the php.ini file
• Edit the .htaccess file
• Contact your hosting provider

Ready to give it a go? Let’s get started!

What The WordPress Max Execution Time Error Is (And Why It Happens)

The maximum execution time error is one of the most common WordPress errors. It can pop up when you are trying to update your WordPress plugins or themes.

It warns you if your site can’t perform the updates you requested.

This error happens because of the PHP scripts on your website. Along with JavaScript, PHP is a language that is the foundation of WordPress sites. Basically, it’s the code that controls how a website runs and shows different elements to users. A PHP script’s maximum execution error has to do with how long it takes to run.

PHP scripts have a maximum execution time to keep your site functional and secure. If there were no limit, a hacker or malicious software could use never-ending scripts to dismantle your website’s hosting server and make your data vulnerable. It’s supervillain stuff, really.

PHP scripts that run for a long time can also divert resources from your server, racking up your bill and robbing you of computing power.

Plugins are most likely to trigger this error because they introduce a lot of code from external sources. Because WordPress is an open-source platform, any developer can design and upload plugins. So, if you install content from lesser-known developers, it may come with flawed code and cause issues in your site’s PHP scripts.

Themes and general WordPress updates can cause the problem as well — but this is less common.

What Is The Standard Max Execution Time?

At DreamHost, we set the maximum execution time at our end. As with most other hosting providers, the duration is usually set to 30 seconds.

This is typically enough time for most PHP scripts to run successfully. If you’re using a different hosting provider, you should be able to contact them directly to find out your site’s execution time limit.

For example, large websites with multiple resources might need slightly longer maximum execution times. Otherwise, they may not be able to complete their processes before the clock runs out.

Some developers use very long execution times of more than 300 seconds. However, we don’t recommend this for most websites, primarily because of the performance issues.

How To Figure Out If The Error Has Occurred

It’s usually pretty obvious when maximum execution time errors happen because you’ll see a notification from WordPress.

The wording does vary. For example, it may read as Fatal error or Critical error. In some cases, the notification might not mention the maximum execution time. All of the warnings, however, have similar components that can help you identify the cause.

Front-end users may also be able to see the error. If they visit the site when the update process has failed, they might see a message telling them that the website is experiencing technical difficulties.

Be aware that you don’t just get this error message if you’ve exceeded your maximum execution time. So, you’ll need to check and see if it shows up in your WordPress dashboard as well.

Finally, you may receive an email from WordPress alerting you that the maximum execution time has been exceeded.

This is thanks to the WordPress 5.2 update, which introduced PHP error protection that automatically notifies you when your site has problems with its themes or plugins. Therefore, you will know almost immediately when there’s an issue with your updates.

How To Fix The Max Execution Time WordPress Error (6 Methods)

There are a few different methods you can use to eliminate the maximum execution time error or increase your site’s maximum execution time.

Consider your comfort level when editing your site’s files and adding new code. If you’re worried about diving in yourself, other nifty options are available.

1. Uninstall The Problem Software

One of the simplest ways to fix the maximum execution time error is to uninstall the software causing the issue. One of your plugins, or your site’s theme, is likely the culprit, so you can start there.

We recommend using this method if you have a hunch that a specific application is causing the problem. For example, you may have recently added a new plugin or updated an old one.

If the error locks you out of your site, you can access the dashboard via Recovery Mode (in WordPress 5.2 and above). If you receive an email from WordPress about the failed updates, it usually includes a link to Recovery Mode, and might even tell you which plugin caused the problem.

Then, navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins and click on Deactivate underneath the relevant one. Click on Delete to remove it.

If you don’t know what’s causing the maximum execution time exceeded error, go ahead and deactivate all your plugins and reactivate them individually. Refresh each time to check if you can find the one causing all the fuss.

You can also use Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) to remove your plugins or do it with the control panel file manager if you’ve got a fully hosted DreamHost account.

You can find all your plugins under wp-content > plugins. Delete the plugin folders one by one to find the offender!

Hopefully, this should clear up the error. If not, let’s move on to some more options.

2. Use The WP Tools Plugin

One of the easiest ways to increase the maximum execution time is by using the WP Tools plugin.

The tool allows you to increase the maximum execution time while it’s activated.

You may prefer the plugin route rather than using the previous method because it can increase your maximum execution time globally. This is particularly beneficial if you want to give functional plugins and themes a little extra time to complete their updates.

To get started, navigate to Plugins > Add New Plugin and search for “WP Tools by Bill Minozzi.” Scroll down until you see the plugin below.

Click on Install now. Once the plugin is installed, select Activate.

Next, visit WP Tools in the side menu. When you open the plugin for the first time, you will see some important instructions. Once you have read these, click I Agree.

Now, navigate to WP Tools > Settings and click on the General Settings tab. Here, you should find the option to Add Max Execution Time Limit.

With the free version of this plugin, you can increase the limit up to 120 seconds. The license can be extended further, but you’ll need to buy the Premium version.

This plugin offers a straightforward fix for the maximum execution time exceeded error — but the free version might not always solve your problem. If you’d rather save some money, keep on reading.

Related: How To Pick The Right WordPress Theme For Your Website

3. Increase The Maximum Execution Time Via wp-config.php

You can increase the maximum execution time by editing your site’s wp-config.php file. This is a core file that contains a lot of important information about your site. For example, it contains your website’s name, host’s name, login username, and password.

If you would like to customize your maximum execution time, we recommend this method. It allows you to add code directly into your WordPress directory file. It’s also relatively quick and easy to do.

Before you start editing the file, we strongly advise you to back up your entire WordPress site. The wp-config.php file is essential for your website, so you don’t want to be making mistakes. With a backup handy, you can revert to your original settings if things go sideways.

You can find the file by using the DreamPress file manager or your SFTP application and looking for wp-config.php. Right-click on it and select Edit from the drop-down menu.

Alternatively, you can click on Download, and edit the file with a simple text editor like Notepad. Once you’re in the wp-config.php file, scroll to the bottom and insert the following code:

set_time_limit(X);

“X” represents the maximum execution time in seconds. For example, you can replace it with “300” and it will extend the duration to five minutes.

Now you can save the file, and you’ve successfully changed the maximum execution time!

4. Increase The Maximum Execution Time In php.ini

You can also increase the maximum execution time by creating a new php.ini file.

This is a document that controls the PHP settings for your content management system (i.e. WordPress), such as resource limits, upload sizes, and file timeouts. Because php.ini affects all the scripts in your system, you won’t have to edit each one individually.

However, not all servers support php.ini files, so you’ll need to check first to make sure yours does. Then, you can increase the PHP execution time with this method.

In the DreamHost server, php.ini files are called phprc. First, you’ll need to create a new phprc file. Go to your SFTP dashboard and navigate to your user directory.

Locate the phprc file in your site’s version of PHP. Then right-click on it and select View/Edit to add your new code. You may see this warning:

Click on the check box next to Always use selection for all unassociated files and select OK. This will then open the file with your text editor. Next, you can enter the following code to change the maximum execution time:

max_execution_time = 500

This will give you 500 seconds to play with. To finish up, you will need to kill all existing PHP processes to update the phprc file and have the changes take effect.

5. Increase The Maximum Execution Time In .htaccess

The .htaccess file is another place where you can adjust the maximum execution time. This file controls changes across the different directories of your WordPress site. Beware though, that the .htaccess file is an elusive beast — not all servers use it, and it’s most commonly found in Apache servers.

You may want to use this method if you don’t want to play around with the wp-config.php file and if your server doesn’t support php.ini files.

Before starting, we recommend backing up your .htaccess file. This will allow you to reinstate it if you make any major mistakes.

To back up your .htaccess file, simply open your SFTP client and navigate to your home directory. Make a copy of the .htaccess file, and save it somewhere on your computer.

Then, use your chosen SFTP client to locate and edit the original .htaccess file. If you’re using the DreamHost file manager, you can right-click on it and select Edit.

Otherwise, you can open it with your text editor. Enter this code to change the maximum execution time:

php_value max_execution_time 300

You can substitute the “300” for any other value you decide on. Finally, save the changes, and the file will apply them to your site.

6. Contact Your Hosting Provider To Request An Increase In Maximum Execution Time

In case you don’t want to change the site’s files yourself, you have one more option: contact your hosting provider directly and they’ll increase the maximum execution time on your behalf.

This method could be helpful if you’re short on time, or have limited technical skills. You may have to pay extra depending on your hosting provider.

With a DreamHost account, you can contact our Professional Services team for them to make these changes for you. Navigate to the Contact Support page in your account dashboard and submit a ticket.

There, you can outline your desired changes and add any details about your site. We may ask for more details, and then we’ll start working on the changes!

Maximum Execution Time FAQs

We’ve covered all the major fixes for maximum execution time errors. Do you still have questions? Luckily, we have answers! Here are the all-important FAQs:

What is the difference between set_time_limit and max_execution_time?

The difference here is all about scope. The set_time_limit setting is designed to set the time limit on an individual PHP script, while max_execution_time sets the upper limit for all PHP scripts in your account.

How can I check my current maximum execution time value?

The easiest method is to install the phpinfo() WP plugin. This will reveal key information about your PHP setup, including your maximum execution time.

My hosting provider doesn’t allow maximum execution time changes.…what should I do?

You pretty much have three options here:

Explore alternative plugins: If the error comes from a plugin, see if there’s a more efficient alternative that does the same thing.

Contact your hosting provider: Politely explain the issue and explore whether there are temporary adjustments they can make, or if a different hosting plan is needed.

Upgrade to a better host: You could always switch to a host that lets you fix your site without getting in the way…just saying.

Bonus WordPress Error Articles

Need to resolve other technical issues on your website? We’ve got you covered! Our team has put together several guides to help you troubleshoot the most common WordPress errors:

• How To Fix Common WordPress Image Upload Issues
• How To Fix “The Site Ahead Contains Malware”
• How To Troubleshoot The WordPress “White Screen of Death”
• How To Fix The 500 Internal Server Error In WordPress
• How To Fix Syntax Errors In WordPress
• How To Fix The WordPress Not Sending Email Issue
• How To Fix The Error Establishing A Database Connection
• How To Fix WordPress Error 404 Not Found
• How To Fix White Text And Missing Buttons In WordPress Visual Editor
• How To Fix The Sidebar Below Content Error In WordPress
• What To Do When You’re Locked Out Of The WordPress Admin Area

And if you’d like a soup-to-nuts walkthrough on running a successful WordPress site, be sure to check out our WordPress Tutorials. We have over 150 guides written by our WordPress experts that will help you navigate the WordPress dashboard like a pro!

Fixing The Fatal Error: Maximum Execution Time Exceeded

The maximum execution time exceeded error in WordPress can get in the way of updating your plugins and themes. We know it can be frustrating when it happens, but there are several ways to solve the problem quickly.

Remember, you can fix the maximum execution time WordPress error with the following methods:

• Uninstall the problem item.
• Increase the maximum execution time with a plugin like WP Tools.
• Adjust the maximum execution time by editing the wp-config.php file.
• Increase the maximum execution time in the php.ini file.
• Edit the .htaccess file to increase the maximum execution time.
• Contact your hosting provider to change the file on your behalf.

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The post How to Fix Fatal Error: Maximum Execution Time Exceeded (In 6 Steps) appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

They’ve made the platform even easier for the non-designer, non-coder, normal ol’ business business owners and managers of the world to craft gorgeous websites.

This time, it’s thanks to something called WordPress block patterns and the new pattern directory and library where they’re organized.

Intrigued?

Allow us to introduce you to the WordPress Pattern Directory, which website owners of all technical skill levels can use to create a beautiful layout. Plus, we’ll offer several tips for choosing the right patterns to build your ideal brand experience.

What Is A WordPress Pattern?

In WordPress, a pattern is a collection of individual blocks designed to seamlessly integrate with WordPress themes.

In case you’re not familiar with blocks, let’s start there.

WordPress blocks are individual stackable elements you use to add functionality to pages and posts on your WordPress site.

In 2018, Gutenberg, a block editor, replaced WordPress’ classic editor. Since then, blocks have become the gold standard for customizing WordPress sites thanks to their powerful functionality and easy drag-and-drop configuration.

Each block is like a widget, capable of adding text, media, design, functional elements, forms, and more wherever you place it on a WordPress page or post. You can arrange blocks however you like them, and you can customize many of them to get the look and features you want.

Related: 27 WordPress Block Themes Perfect For Full Site Editing

Now that we’ve made sense of blocks, let’s dive back into patterns.

As we started saying, block patterns are predefined combinations of blocks that make up functional elements for WordPress pages and posts, such as headers and footers, newsletter subscription boxes, and e-commerce displays.

Perhaps the coolest feature of patterns is that the fonts, colors, and other styling elements of each block in a pattern automatically adapt to match your theme. You can still customize patterns every time you use them, in case you want to move or remove an element of a pattern on one page or post but not on another.

A great example would be using a singular pattern as a premade template for all of your blog posts. You want them to be decently similar, but you may want calls to action (CTAs), FAQ sections, forms, and other elements to live in different places depending on the content and audience.

Developers of popular themes have their own custom patterns, making it easy to build a beautiful and even complex layout that you know will function fully. If you’re shopping for both modern theme styles and the best patterns to power them up, this guide has a helpful list of themes and the premade patterns that work with them (free and paid).

In summary, WordPress patterns are pre-designed elements that enable website owners, managers, and developers to quickly create powerful, consistent websites.

With that, let’s talk about how to access WordPress patterns.

Understanding The WordPress Pattern Directory

Now, we can dive into the good stuff you came here to learn about today: the WordPress Pattern Directory.

But first (gotcha!) we have one more caveat: there is a WordPress Pattern Directory and a WordPress Pattern Library.

This is because there’s one for both WordPress.org and WordPress.com, which are different.

WordPress.org is an open-source platform for creating customized websites. You can download it and use it for free. However, to make your website live and accessible on the Internet, you will need to purchase web hosting.

This is where WordPress.com, an online site builder and hosting provider, comes in. The basics are free on WordPress.com, and you can access upgraded features for a fee.

The WordPress Pattern Directory, or Block Pattern Directory, exists on WordPress.org. The WordPress Pattern Library lives on WordPress.com.

Both resources hit the scene recently to provide a singular place for pattern designers and developers to share the creations that make their lives easier. Creative website owners and/or builders like you can access those resources to quickly build beautiful, functional experiments without reinventing the wheel every time.

The best feature of all? The 100s of patterns listed on the library and directory are free to use.

How To Navigate The WordPress Pattern Directory

The WordPress block pattern library and directory make it exceedingly easy to find the right pattern for your website.

Across the top of each website’s homepage, you’ll see a set of filters that you can use to narrow down the types of patterns you’re looking at.

Currently, the block pattern categories in the directory include:

• Posts: Display your blog content
• Text: Present text anywhere on your website
• Gallery: Showcase pictures
• Call to Action: Encourage site visitors to act
• Banners: Display designs at the top of pages to engage visitors
• Headers: Help with website navigation
• Footers: Appear at the bottom of websites to offer additional navigation
• Wireframe: Provide placeholders to plan and experiment with different design elements

You’ll also find a search bar to locate specific patterns. This is a quick way to find solutions tailored to your requirements.

In the directory, you can click a pattern to preview its appearance on different screen widths.

On both sites, you should see a blue button that allows you to copy the pattern.

We’ll show you exactly where this comes in handy as we dive into using a pattern on your WordPress site for the first time.

How To Get Started With The WordPress Pattern Directory

Let’s dive into implementing your first pattern on your website.

First, you need to select the post or page where you want to add a pattern. We’re going to log into WordPress, look for Posts in the sidebar, go to All Posts, and select the one we want to edit.

Once we’re inside that post, in the upper-left corner of the editing area there should be a plus button that opens both the blocks and patterns menus.

Note: Not seeing the option to add blocks or patterns on the page you’re editing? You may not yet use a theme that supports them. Our guide How To Switch From A Classic Theme To WordPress Block Themes will walk you through how to upgrade to a block theme so you can take advantage of all its modern benefits.

Once you have that menu open, switch to the Patterns tab. Here, you’ll see all the available block patterns for the theme you’re using.

Let’s say we want to add a call to action to the post. We’ll click into that category and select our chosen CTA pattern. Just like that, it will appear wherever our cursor is in the post.

Tip: Insert a pattern you’ve copied from the pattern directory or library. Just use the blue copy button on the desired pattern, come back to the WordPress page or post you want to edit, click on the screen where you want the pattern to live, and paste.

Want to move, remove, or otherwise edit your pattern? Click on it in the post to see all the pattern settings and options.

Be sure to select Save draft or Publish at the top right of the WordPress screen to save your work.

Those are the basics of using patterns on your website. Super easy, right? 

What’s The Point Of WordPress Patterns?

Patterns seem to have it all. They can supercharge the speed at which you create and build,  ensure effortless uniformity to improve your brand impression, and deliver the aesthetic you’ve always wanted your website to have.

Creation Speed

Each pattern in the directory seamlessly integrates with most modern themes. And implementing patterns is as simple as dragging and dropping your favorite elements into place.

That means you don’t have to be a WordPress designer or understand development to quickly create powerful experiences that showcase your brand, boost SEO, and even grow conversions and retention.

Website Consistency

Spending hours meticulously combing through every page on your site to change that midnight blue color scheme to navy instead?

Oof, not again.

WordPress patterns inherit font, color, and spacing settings from the theme itself. No generic presets here!

This significantly reduces the likelihood of visual inconsistencies, whether you’re updating or just experimenting with your site’s look and feel.

Beautiful Designs

Probably one of the best, and most obvious, benefits of using patterns to flesh out your business website is that they’re usually ridiculously good-looking.

Some full-page patterns practically design website pages for you. All you have to do is make a few tweaks, and you can have a customized, on-brand website that looks professionally designed.

Overwhelmed? 3 Tips For Choosing The Best Patterns

It’s a great thing that there are thousands of WordPress patterns up for grabs.

It can also be somewhat mind-boggling to sort through them and choose the best ones for your website.

So, let’s wrap up with a few tips to help you make wiser, quicker decisions when it comes to patterns.

Start With Accessibility

As much as 15% of the world’s population experiences a disability, which is why a network of laws and agencies around the world keeps website accessibility standards high.

Some tips for increasing accessibility include using readable font sizes, creating high-contrast designs, simplifying navigation, captioning graphics, and making your website structure logical. Choose patterns that improve accessibility across your site — such as text patterns with large font or design patterns with high contrast — without having to scrap the whole thing.

For a full walkthrough, be sure to read How To Design An Accessible Website (A Complete Guide). 

Decide On Your Story And Style

When it comes to designing a website, layout and appearance tell the story of your brand.

Only you can tell that story accurately. Once you have it nailed down, it should inform everything else, such as your content and the style in which you present it.

Is minimal and simple the right vibe? Or is your brand loud and vibrant? Do images take center stage when selling your product, or is content key for your service offering?

Once you know the answers to these questions, you can cut right to the chase and put together a collection of patterns that craft a website that tells your story.

Learn more about web design with Top 7 Basic Elements Of Web Design.

Peruse What’s Popular

That said, sometimes understanding your brand to the core doesn’t stir up any ideas for design. Some of us just aren’t visual thinkers.

If that’s you and you need inspiration fast, look no further than our guide to web design trends.

With a little direction, you can start picking out patterns and build a site that’s both stylish and uniquely yours.

We’ll Help You Decode The WordPress Pattern Directory

With that, you’re fully prepared to access WordPress’ directory and library and start creating the web design of your dreams.

But what if you don’t trust your design chops, don’t have time to deal with it as you field business orders left and right (congrats!), or you simply don’t wanna?

We get it.

That’s why our simple, affordable hosting plans and web dev, web design, and website management pros support website owners and managers on their missions to create SEO-boosting, conversion-making, and downright beautiful online experiences.

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The post Decoding WordPress: Build Fast With WordPress Pattern Directory appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

And that’s essentially what Really Simple SSL does for your site.

This super-popular WordPress plugin makes it easy for website owners to upgrade to HTTPS. In turn, upgrading helps to maintain visitor security. It also signals to search engines that your site is the hottest ticket in town. Sounds great, doesn’t it?

In this quick guide, we’ll take a look at what Really Simple SSL can do, how to install the plugin, and some of the alternatives to consider. Let’s get the party started!

What Is SSL Exactly?

Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, is basically the secret handshake of the internet. It’s a cryptographic protocol that ensures that hosting servers and web browsers can talk to each other without any uninvited creeps eavesdropping on the conversation.

On a more technical level, SSL works like this:

• When you visit a website, the hosting server “shakes hands” with your web browser.
• The browser then asks the server for an ID.
• In response to incoming requests, the server produces a valid certificate to prove its identity.
• After the certificate has been checked, the server and browser open a secure connection via HTTPS.
• Once the connection is established, all data that’s transferred between the server and the browser is encrypted.

This process ensures that sneaky hackers can’t set up a fake server or spy on your connection to steal any personal information. Plus, search engines tend to prefer sites that are secure in this way.

Fun fact: SSL was replaced a few years ago by TLS (Transport Layer Security). However, because TLS performs the same function, we generally talk about SSL.

What Is Really Simple SSL?

Really Simple SSL is a plugin that simplifies setting up SSL on your WordPress website.

More specifically, the plugin installs a free SSL certificate, if required, and configures your site to use HTTPS. (With many of our DreamHost hosting plans, we do this for you.)

In addition to this initial set-up process, Really Simple SSL can run a security health check on your hosting server and help you mitigate WordPress’s weaknesses.

It can even notify you about vulnerabilities that pop up in the plugin, theme, and WordPress core updates.

Why Really Simple SSL Is Probably Your Best Option

What makes Really Simple SSL the standout choice? There are five main reasons:

1. It’s the simplest solution: This plugin lives up to its name. There are multiple ways to set up SSL and HTTPS, but none are as easy and straightforward as using Really Simple SSL.
2. Intelligent automation: When you set up HTTPS manually, there’s always a chance of introducing the occasional typo. Really Simple SSL helps you avoid this issue by automating much of the process. The automation also extends to troubleshooting mixed content errors and other common issues that arise when you implement SSL/HTTPS.
3. A specialized tool: Many full-featured security plugins include SSL setup as an option. But if your main goal is setting up SSL, Really Simple SSL is completely focused on WordPress HTTPS migrations.
4. Streamlined performance: While sprawling security plugins sometimes add weight to your site, Really Simple SSL is like a feather. The lightweight nature of this plugin also makes for fewer compatibility problems.
5. Outstanding reviews: Really Simple SSL has a perfect 5-star average rating, from over 9,000 submissions in the official WordPress Plugin Directory. And at the time of writing, 32 out of 34 issues raised in the past two months have been resolved.

These features are pretty compelling, aren’t they? With over five million active installations, it’s obvious users are enjoying it.

Really Simple SSL Use Cases

Not sure whether you need an SSL plugin? To make the answer crystal clear, let’s run through the main use cases for Really Simple SSL:

• New WordPress sites: If you’re starting from scratch, Really Simple SSL can help you make your site secure. The plugin ensures HTTPS is properly configured, helping you to avoid common pitfalls.
• Upgrading existing sites to HTTPS: If your existing site doesn’t yet run SSL/HTTPS, you should probably upgrade for improved security and SEO benefits. Really Simple SSL automates the transition, so content like images and links are loaded properly via the secure HTTPS protocol.
• Sites with mixed HTTP/HTTPS content: Some WordPress sites end up with an ugly mixture of HTTPS and HTTP content because of site migrations, plugin conflicts, or manual HTTPS setups. This can create security vulnerabilities and even break your site. Luckily, Really Simple SSL has a mixed content fixer.
• Subdomains that need HTTPS: Maintaining HTTPS across multiple subsites or subdomains can be complicated. Really Simple SSL supports multisite installation, meaning subsites are automatically configured to use HTTPS.

How To Set Up Really Simple SSL

Assuming your site falls into one of these categories above, you should install Really Simple SSL. Here’s your jargon-free quickstart guide:

1. Install The Plugin

To get started, log in to your WordPress Dashboard and navigate to Plugins > Add New Plugin via the side menu.

Next, search for really simple ssl in the search box in the top-right. This is the plugin you’re looking for:

Tap Install Now, and then Activate.

2. Basic Configuration

Once Really Simple SSL is activated, the plugin will scan your site configuration.

Most web hosts today, including DreamHost, provide SSL certificates. If this applies to your hosting plan, you can simply walk through the setup process:

From your lefthand navigation menu, select Plugins > Installed Plugins. Type really simple in the search bar and then select Settings.

Click the blue Activate SSL button on the plugin options screen.

Next, enter your web host when prompted. Then click on Activate SSL.

Choose whether you want Really Simple SSL’s additional security hardening features. When you’re done, click Enable (or you can choose to Skip at this time).

Now, enter your email address (you need to complete email verification to access certain options).

Choose whether you want to install the optional security and privacy plugins.

Complete the process by clicking Finish.

And just like that, you’re done! Your website should now be secure with HTTPS. Test it by typing your website address into your browser, and tapping the icon next to the address. The drop-down should confirm that your site is secure!

Setting Up An SSL Certificate

Unfortunately, not all web hosting providers give you SSL as a standard feature. But fear not, dear friend! Really Simple SSL allows you to generate a free certificate via Let’s Encrypt.

Here’s how to do it:

1. After the initial scan, Really Simple SSL will inform you that “No SSL certificate has been detected.” Click on Install SSL Certificate.
2. The plugin will dive deeper to check whether your site is ready for SSL. Assuming you meet the criteria, you can click Save and Continue.
3. To register your SSL certificate, the plugin will then ask you for a contact email address and a few other details. Fill these out, and then click Save and Continue.
4. Next, Really Simple SSL will ask you to add information about your hosting management software (e.g., cPanel). Fill out the form, and smash that Save and Continue button.
5. In some cases, you might be asked to verify your DNS records. The wizard will guide you through any steps you need to take.
6. Really Simple SSL will generate your SSL certificate. It might install automatically. Otherwise, follow the steps provided by the wizard to install your certificate manually.

Et voilà! You should be ready to transition to SSL.

Keep in mind that some hosts don’t allow you to generate and install SSL certificates so easily. If you’re encountering problems along the way, check this list to see if your host supports Really Simple SSL.

3. Security Checkup

Once you’ve completed the installation process, it’s worth checking that SSL is working properly. 
Start by typing in the URL of your website, with https:// at the beginning. Then click on the View site information icon to the immediate left of the address bar.

Click Connection is secure and you should see a “Connection is secure” message.

If you encounter problems here, it might be because of mixed content errors.

All good? Next, visit the Really Simple SSL plugin settings under Settings > SSL & Security. Here, you can run a quick SSL health check.

While you’re there, you can also check for any security issues under the vulnerability measures section.

Follow the instructions here to fortify your site!

Really Simple SSL Alternatives

As you can tell, we love Really Simple SSL. There are other options, though. Here are some of the key alternatives:

• Cloudflare (Flexible SSL): This CDN (content delivery network) comes with basic SSL capabilities.
• Manual installation: For advanced users who want total control, configuring SSL manually might be a better option.
• Other WordPress SSL plugins: Plugins like SSL Zen offer extra features, such as email reminders for expiring SSL certificates.

Really Simple SSL FAQs

Still have questions? We have answers! Here are some of the most questions we get about Really Simple SSL:

Is Really Simple SSL free?

All the basic features are free, yes. You only need to pay for advanced security options.

Does Really Simple SSL slow down my website?

No. This particular plugin is really lightweight. But remember, the encryption of SSL does take a little time.

Will Really Simple SSL break my site?

It shouldn’t. But it’s worth backing up your site before you install the plugin. If you have problems, try clearing your browser cache, and make sure you don’t have conflicting redirect rules in your .htaccess file.

Make WordPress More Secure

Adding SSL to your site is highly recommended, and Really Simple SSL makes it super easy. With the right hosting provider, you can upgrade your site in minutes.

At DreamHost, all our shared hosting plans come with SSL certificates. On some plans, like DreamPress, you don’t even need to install the certificate!

We also offer free daily site backups, 100% uptime, and 24/7 expert support — starting at just $2.59 per month.

Want to try it for yourself? Sign up today to give your WordPress site the hosting it deserves!

Protect Your Website with DreamHost

Our automatic updates and strong security defenses take server management off your hands so you can focus on your customers.

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The post Really Simple SSL: Improve WordPress Security The Easy Way appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

Need a contact form? There’s a plugin for that. Building a private membership area? Plugins can do that.

You can also find plugins for security, performance, layouts, content management, and countless other purposes.

With so many great tools to choose from, it’s tempting to fill your boots– and many articles will encourage you to do so.

Alas, the hard truth about WordPress plugins is that they can actually detract from your website.

To explain why, we decided to take a deep dive into the topics. Keep reading to discover the potential pitfalls of plugins, all the major upsides, and how to strike the right balance on your WordPress website.

Are WordPress Plugins Good Or Bad?

WordPress plugins are a bit like desserts — great in moderation.

Installing a few plugins can make your website a whole lot sweeter. They’re the sprinkles on your WordPress cupcake, unlocking additional features and improving performance.

This sugar rush can be addictive, and that’s where the problems begin.

Installing too many plugins (or the wrong sort) will likely make your site unhealthy and sluggish. Instead of adding improvements, you end up adding bloat. It can even leave your website vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.

So, how do you strike a balance? To answer this question thoroughly, we first need to get familiar with plugins.

What Is A WordPress Plugin?

A WordPress plugin is basically an extension that you can install to add extra features and functionality to your WordPress site.

Think of it like customizing your smartphone with apps: plugins let you tailor WordPress to your specific needs.

On a technical level, plugins are written in PHP code (and occasionally other languages) and “hook into” WordPress using actions and filters. This allows them to modify or add to the core functionality of WordPress without changing the actual source code.

Some plugins are self-contained add-ons that simply tack on some code. Others allow you to connect WordPress to outside services, giving you more functionality.

Most people who use WordPress for their site have at least one plugin installed. Some of the most popular plugins include:

• Yoast SEO (660 million downloads)
• Akismet (318 million downloads)
• Jetpack (395 million downloads)
• Wordfence Security (344 million downloads)

Just the top six names in the Plugin Directory have racked up over 1.6 billion downloads between them! And that doesn’t even count the plugins sold on developer websites and through third-party directories.

Why WordPress Plugins Can Be Great

There are good reasons for the popularity of plugins. Let’s quickly remind ourselves of the main arguments in favor of using them:

Plugins Make It Easy To Add New Functionality

Plugins allow you to extend the functionality of your WordPress website without writing custom code. This is hugely appealing if you aren’t an experienced web developer.

Even for people who do code, quickly installing an add-on requires much less effort than building and implementing functions from scratch. This particularly applies to specialized apps, such as SEO tools and e-commerce systems.

Plugins Give You Control

Most plugins come with an options panel. This allows you to adjust the behavior of your extended features through an accessible interface.

While it’s possible to build this kind of interface for custom features, the process requires advanced coding skills or a budget to pay professionals.

You Have 60,000 WordPress Plugins To Choose From!

Most content management systems allow you to add plugins, add-ons, or extensions. So, what makes WordPress unique? The large selection of available plugins.

Right now, there are around 60,000 free and premium plugins in the official WordPress Plugin Directory. From e-commerce tools to social media integrations, there’s a plugin to scratch whatever itch you have.

Plugins Are (Usually) Much Cheaper Than Hiring A Developer

Business owners who need highly customized features will sometimes hire a WordPress developer to build the specific functionality.

However, the needs of most site owners are covered by existing plugins that are free or very affordable.

To make a direct comparison, you can expect to pay between $29 and $44 an hour for a WordPress developer. To replicate even the most basic plugin, it will take them 15 hours. That means you’d need to budget at least $500 for the initial build— and more for future updates.

More functionality can cost up to $5,000 to build. So, even paying $150 annually for a premium plugin looks like a pretty good value.

Plugins Can Be More Reliable

Aside from cost, the main problem with hiring developers is finding someone who will do a good job. Many website owners can share horror stories about code gone wrong.

While the quality of plugins varies just as much, the WordPress Plugin Directory has a rating system that allows well-made plugins to rise to the top. The platform also shows you how often the plugins have been updated, and any outstanding issues that users have raised.

Most top plugins are maintained by development teams with significant resources, meaning updates can be pumped out regularly. As a result, bugs are fixed quickly.

The Hidden Costs Of Plugin Overload

Given all the visible benefits, it’s hard to imagine any downsides to installing WordPress plugins.

That being said, much like a rusting chassis or aging engine, the problems with plugins are real, and not always easy to spot. Before filling your garage with beautiful wrecks, it’s worth taking a look under the hood.

Reduced Site Speed

Whenever you install a new plugin, remember that you’re adding new code to your website.

Some of this code must be processed before pages are displayed. So, WordPress websites with many plugins tend to lag behind sites with a more modest selection.

The exact type of plugins you install makes a difference. Plugins that perform any of the following tasks are likely to slow you down:

• Database requests: Plugins that display specific content, such as related posts, have to query your site’s database. This process adds to your load time.
• Background processing: Some plugins alter your site’s database in the background. These processes take up resources, often slowing down performance.
• HTTP requests: Plugins that customize the design of your WordPress website rely on extra CSS and JavaScript files, which must be loaded before each page is displayed.

These issues aren’t that noticeable when you have one or two plugins installed. But as your selection grows, so do the side effects.

You can verify this yourself using Google’s PageSpeed test.

Check your score with all your plugins running, and then restart the test after temporarily deactivating your inessential plugins. You’re almost certain to see an improvement.

The difference is especially pronounced if you use poorly made plugins. Inefficient code adds a burden to your site, forcing web browsers to jump through multiple hoops before displaying your content.

In other words, it can turn your online presence into a circus. 🤡

Using Additional Resources

Reduced loading speed isn’t the only downside of plugin bloat. All that extra work can put an almighty strain on your hosting environment, sometimes without you even realizing it.

Every plugin adds files (such as scripts) to your website. When someone visits your site, their browser must download all these files to display the page properly.

Similarly, many plugins add information to your website’s database. This is useful for managing each plugin, but adding all those extra tables gets pretty bulky. Poorly coded plugins are particularly resource-hungry in this area.

Plugins that run background tasks can also gobble up processing power, memory, and database resources from your web server.

Put together, these factors can significantly increase the required memory and bandwidth for running your site, potentially sending your hosting bill to terrifying heights. (Luckily for DreamHost users, all our shared hosting plans are unmetered.)

Security Vulnerabilities

Along with increasing server pressure, the extra code added by plugins can leave your WordPress website more vulnerable to attack.

It all comes down to probability.

Even highly skilled developers occasionally write insecure code. These minor slip-ups provide an entry point for malicious hackers. As you add code to your site via plugins, the chance of introducing one of these mistakes increases. In cybersecurity terminology, you are increasing your “attack surface.”

It’s worth noting that not all plugins hold the same risk. For example, plugins maintained by Automattic (One of the top WordPress.org contributors) are likely to be better secured than plugins from third-party developers. Equally, plugins that are actively maintained tend to be more secure than abandoned projects.

The functionality of each plugin also influences the overall danger level. With plugins that require deep access permissions (e.g., tools for managing user roles or editing files), a simple brute-force attack could land you in deep trouble. In addition, plugins can even cause compatibility issues that leave cracks in your digital fortress.

Be aware that not all plugins are harmless, either. In a recent study of 400,000 web servers, security experts found 44,000 plugins containing malicious code.

Returning to the principle of probability, installing more plugins increases your chances of finding one of these rotten eggs!

Compatibility Issues

If your WordPress site were a family, plugins would be the kids. And as we all know, siblings sometimes don’t get along.

Compatibility issues are common when you install a lot of plugins. Conflicts occur when plugins are incompatible with each other, or with the version of WordPress you’re using. This results in errors, broken functionality, or even a completely non-functional website.

Incompatibility between plugins often occurs when two or more plugins try to modify the same core WordPress files or functionality. In some instances, plugins may even contain contradictory code. It’s like two cooks seasoning the same broth — a recipe for disaster. Performance issues can also arise as a result of the clash. In extreme cases, it can crash your entire website. (Oy vey!)

Then, you have the problem of plugins working with new versions of WordPress. Experienced site owners will tell you that every core update comes with a tinge of tension. If just one key plugin hasn’t been updated in line with WordPress, it can break your website.

When you’re only running a few plugins, tracking down the offender is relatively easy. In contrast, diagnosing problems when you’re running loads of plugins can be a real headache.

One way to avoid this issue is by upgrading to managed WordPress hosting. With these plans, your host handles updates for you. For example, our DreamHost Support team specializes in WordPress, always looking for incompatibilities in each release, and is ready to help you if something goes wrong with your site.

Problems With User Experience

If you want your WordPress site to attract visitors or clients, you need to provide a good user experience. Plugins can help here. But remember, they can just as easily detract from your UX.

We’ve looked at performance before, but this is also a major factor in user experience. Visitors are much more likely to click away if your site is slow to load, which can impact your business goals. Research shows that e-commerce sites that load in one second have a conversion rate 2.5x higher than sites that load in five seconds.

Five seconds might not seem like a super-long time, but when technology is usually operating in milliseconds, it can seem like ages! And it’s definitely possible to extend your loading times by installing a lot of plugins.

Even if your site loads quickly, certain plugins can detract from the overall usability of your WordPress website. Pop-ups, chat boxes, and ads all serve a purpose — but they add visual clutter and make it harder for visitors to navigate.

This issue is often made worse on mobile devices. Many plugins that work just fine on desktop displays are not properly optimized for smaller screens, meaning that certain elements break, fill the screen, or glitch out completely.

None of this is going to make your site user-friendly!

Ongoing Maintenance

Keeping your WordPress site fully up to date is important if you want to avoid bugs and security vulnerabilities. However, this can become a chore and a real challenge as your collection of plugins grows.

You might think that auto-updates are the answer here. Except, not every update works as it should. Some new releases no longer support older WordPress versions, and new compatibility issues can arise.

For this reason, many savvy website owners perform updates manually. Some even test plugins for compatibility on a staging site before installing updates on their live website.

While all of this is manageable, it can take a significant chunk of time each week if you have a boatload of plugins installed.

When To Use Plugins: Balancing The Benefits And Risks

After reading about all the potential problems, you’re probably wondering if plugins are even worth the hassle. Plugins can be super useful. It’s all about striking the right balance.

It’s more helpful to think of the issues mentioned above as cautionary tales — They shouldn’t stop you from using plugins, but they’re worth keeping in mind nonetheless.

The best way to swerve the downsides is by considering your choice of plugins carefully, and weighing the alternatives.

Let’s walk through that process now.

WordPress Plugins Vs. The Alternatives

When you’re accustomed to working with WordPress, your first instinct may be to solve any problem with a plugin. It’s the easy fix, after all.

However, there are other ways to add advanced features to your site and make adjustments. Before diving into the Plugin Directory, it’s worth considering all the options.

WordPress Customizer And Full-Site Editing

For making minor alterations to the behavior and appearance of your site, the WordPress Customizer probably has everything you need.

This built-in feature provides a range of options for controlling your theme, from fonts and colors to sidebars and buttons. Just as importantly, you don’t need to write any code!

The exact selection of options in the Customizer varies depending on the theme you’re using. In some cases, you may be able to alter the entire layout of your site with a couple of clicks.

Some themes also now support full-site editing. This feature allows you to drag and drop elements of your WordPress site within a block-based editor.

The only real argument against using either the Customizer or full-site editing is that your design options will always be somewhat limited.

Pros:

• Make changes to your website without coding
• User-friendly interface for changing your theme’s colors, layout, and more
• Always compatible with your current WordPress installation

Cons: 

• A limited set of customization options

Child Themes

The wider design of your WordPress website is ultimately controlled by CSS code. Plugins that allow you to customize the look of your site are simply providing a user-friendly wrapper. Under the hood, they’re writing their own CSS.

Such tools are really attractive if you don’t know CSS or you’re short on time, but there are some major disadvantages.

Many visual design plugins create new CSS files on top of your base site files. Each addition adds to the page loading burden. These effects are multiplied when the additional CSS instructions conflict with existing rules.

Unless you are using a Full-Site Editing theme, replacing the CSS through its Global Styles, it’s usually more efficient to adjust your site’s design through a child theme.

Think of a child theme like a shell that sits atop your original theme, allowing you to add custom CSS and templates. Even when the original parent theme is updated, these changes remain.

In most cases, using a child theme is much more efficient than using a bunch of plugins to alter your site. The only thing is that you need to understand how child themes work. Some plugins offer powerful features that child themes can’t.

Pros:

• Change the design and functionality of your site without affecting the original theme
• Changes are preserved when the parent theme is updated
• Good performance compared with some plugins

Cons:

• Requires some understanding of the WordPress theme structure
• Can’t match the functionality of some plugins
• You need to use code to make changes

Custom Coding

Back in the old days, adding new features to your site wasn’t so easy. You would have to code them from scratch or hire someone with that skill set.

Custom coding has some major advantages over plugins. For starters, you can get the exact design and functionality you need. Assuming you write good code, this approach also reduces the bloat and potential security vulnerabilities associated with some plugins.

WordPress even has built-in features that smoothen your path. Hooks, actions, and filters allow you to call on the specific data you need without writing custom functions. It’s a huge time saver, and is one of the reasons that WordPress is a popular CMS with web developers.

Of course, all of this assumes you have strong PHP and JavaScript coding skills — or the budget to hire a professional developer. You’re either going to be spending time or money.

Pros:

• Precise control over custom functionality and design
• Ensures compatibility and stability (assuming the code is well-written)
• Opportunity to enhance your technical skills

Cons:

• Requires a certain level of coding expertise
• Can be more time-consuming or expensive compared with using plugins
• Requires manual code maintenance

Embedding Content

Some plugins are designed to pull content from third-party platforms. These tools are often very convenient, but they’re not strictly necessary.

Take WP Go Maps for example. This plugin helps site owners to direct visitors to physical locations by embedding Google Maps. The plugin works well, with loads of different looks and layouts to choose from.

However, you can embed Google Maps on any WordPress website without a plugin. You simply grab the <iframe> code provided by Google and paste it into a custom HTML block in the WordPress Editor.

The same approach applies to many chat plugins, analytics plugins, tools for affiliate links, email marketing forms, and more. Sometimes, you have to sacrifice a little control over the appearance of the embedded content, but the upside is one less plugin to maintain.

Pros: 

• Reduces your plugin load
• Less complicated to set up

Cons:

• Often provides less control over the presentation of content
• Can introduce security vulnerabilities
• Well-maintained official plugins may offer better compatibility

How To Evaluate WordPress Plugins

Of course, you may conclude that a plugin is exactly what you need. For instance, you might want more control than the Customizer provides, without writing code or embedding third-party content.

In this scenario, it’s worth spending a little time on choosing the right plugin. Every minute invested here can save you hours down the line.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Pinpoint Your Needs

We often use broad terms like contact form plugins, website builder plugins, security plugins, translation plugins, and so on.

But what exactly do you want to achieve with your plugin?

By pinpointing your goals, you can work out which key features you need. This information will then inform which plugins would suit your needs best.

Say you’re planning to open an online store. The exact e-commerce plugin you need depends on:

• The type of products you’re selling
• The theme you’re using
• The payment methods you want to provide
• The design options you want

Once you have clear answers, it becomes a lot easier to track down the perfect solution.

2. Search And Shortlist

Now that you’re equipped with a specific list of requirements, you can venture into the plugin realm — or the WordPress Plugin Directory, as most people call it.

Here, you should search for the specific features you need. Open the top search results and see if the functionality is listed. Any plugins that fit the bill can be added to your shortlist.

If you’re seeing limited options in the Plugin Directory, you could also visit a trusted third-party platform like CodeCanyon, or WooCommerce Marketplace. Here, you can find niche premium plugins that don’t feature on the official site.

3. Check Compatibility

Next, we need to examine the plugins on your shortlist in greater detail. This starts with checking that the plugins are compatible with your WordPress setup.

Visit the WordPress Plugin Directory page for each plugin, and look at the information box on the right-hand side. Here you can see:

• The versions of WordPress the plugin has been tested with
• The versions of PHP it supports
• The languages it can handle

Make sure these align with your site. You may need to check with your hosting provider to find out which PHP version you have access to.

In the main plugin description on the left, check whether the developer has noted any conflicts with other plugins. If one of your installed plugins is mentioned, you might have to look at other options.

4. Examine User Reviews

Just like shopping on Amazon, it’s worth paying attention to the user reviews for plugins. High ratings are a good indicator of quality, while poor reviews may hint at technical issues.

For each plugin on your shortlist, take note of the star rating. This is listed under the name of each plugin in search results, and on the right-hand side of plugin pages.

We also recommend reading some of the reviews left by users. You can do this by opening a plugin page, and then tapping See all> next to Ratings in the right-hand column.

These written assessments can reveal what users like and dislike about the plugin. You might even find a review left by someone who has similar needs to your own!

5. Look For Updates And Support

Even if everything appears rosy on the surface, you should generally avoid plugins that haven’t been updated for some time.

The biggest reason is that online threats change over time, and developers need to adjust the code to maintain security. A lack of maintenance over the years also suggests the developer is not very engaged with the project. If something went wrong with the plugin, they might not be in a hurry to fix the issue.

You can check the update history for any plugin by navigating to the Directory page and looking over at the right-hand information box. Here, you can see when the last update happened.

Scroll down further, and you will see a summary of the plugin’s support record. This reveals how many issues have been resolved by the developer in the last two months — a good indicator of how engaged they are.

Click View support forum here, and you’ll be able to see the support requests for yourself. If you see a lot of problems, particularly relating to your use cases, think twice before grabbing the plugin.

If you’re looking at paid plugins or premium versions, be sure to check the support policy before investing any hard-earned money!

6. Test Your Plugin (Optional)

By this point, your shortlist should be pretty short indeed. The final decision depends on the exact mix of features you want, and the information you’ve collected in this process.

If you want to be completely sure you have the right option, you could try your choice on a staging site. (This is a replica of your live site where you can experiment safely.)

After setting up your staging site, simply install your chosen plugin as you normally would to see if it works properly with your theme and any other plugins.

7 Tips For Better Plugin Management

Being careful about new additions can help you to avoid some of the pitfalls of plugin overload, but what if you already have loads of plugins installed?

Just like a kindergarten teacher on a day trip, you’re going to need to set some rules and exert some authority. Here are some important tips for taming your class of unruly plugins:

1. Run Regular Plugin Audits

Don’t leave the dead wood hanging around. Plugins that no longer serve a purpose should be weeded out at the first opportunity.

We recommend setting a date in your diary every few months for a plugin audit. This is your chance to assess your current selection and find any opportunities to streamline your plugin folder. 

If you find a plugin that isn’t useful, don’t just deactivate it. The files are still there, taking up space on your hosting account and representing a security threat. Delete it!

2. Stay Updated

There’s a good reason why developers push out updates. It’s not to bother you. It’s actually to fix any bugs and security issues that crop up.

This is why it’s super important to stay on top of updates. Leaving your site untouched for just a few months can be enough to cause major issues.

As with your plugin audit, schedule an update check in your calendar. Make it more frequent, like once every month. At the same time, you can check for updates to your theme or WordPress.

If you can’t see yourself sticking to this schedule, consider upgrading to managed WordPress hosting. With our plans at DreamHost, we handle the updates for you and keep you informed via email notifications.

If we come across any issues during the process, we’ll restore your site to how it was, and let you know.

3. Monitor Your Site’s Performance

How do you know when you’ve reached plugin overload? A dip in site performance is probably the best indicator. So, monitoring your metrics over time is a smart move.

It’s particularly important to check your performance before and after installing new plugins. Some may have a negligible effect, while others will push your load times to unacceptable levels. By making a record, you can assess whether to keep the new addition or look for another option.

Even if you’re not modifying your plugin selection, it’s worth checking your stats every so often. Major new versions of plugins sometimes introduce basic features that add weight to your site, and some free plugins carry premium features under the hood.

If you see your PageSpeed scores slipping, consider culling your less important plugins.

4. Diagnose Conflicts

In many cases, two plugins with conflicting features will still get the job done. However, they might not behave perfectly. That includes creating extra processing work that ruins your performance.

There are two main ways to check compatibility between your plugins, and your theme:

• Use a staging site: Set up a staging site and activate various plugins simultaneously to find conflicts
• Use a compatibility checker: Ironically, you can install an extra plugin that finds possible conflicts

The latter option is easier, but not foolproof. If you really want to get to the bottom of any issues you run into, a staging site is the way to go.

5. Consolidate Plugins

As you scroll down your list of plugins, you may notice that you have several tools that perform similar tasks. In these cases, you might be able to consolidate your selection.

As a general rule, one larger plugin with multiple features is better than three smaller plugins that each perform specific tasks.

Say you use a slider plugin for your front page and a gallery plugin for a portfolio on the same site. There’s a wide range of plugins that can handle both tasks, so you may be able to roll two tools into one.

The same goes for many optimization plugins. Maybe you use Yoast SEO for optimizing your content and another plugin to check broken links; you could replace both with All in One SEO (AIOSEO).

6. Make Regular Backups

Backups are essentially an insurance policy for your site. If anything goes wrong, such as plugins misbehaving, you can simply restore the latest archived version.

To ensure you don’t lose much content during this process, it’s essential to make regular backups of your site — every day if possible.

There are three ways of doing this:

• Manually via Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP): If you connect to your site via an SFTP client, you can simply copy all the files to your device. Remember to also back up your database
• With a backup plugin: Tools like UpdraftPlus allow you to schedule backups from within your WordPress admin area
• Through your hosting provider: Some web hosts offer manual and automatic backups as a feature. At DreamHost, we offer one-click backups on all accounts, and daily automatic backups on managed WordPress plans 

Using an automated solution guarantees you won’t accidentally miss your backup schedule, and also frees you from the chore of backing up every day!

7. Use A Plugin Manager

Did you know that you can disable plugins for specific pages and posts? Well, you can with a plugin manager.

This means you can continue using a generous selection of plugins, without seeing an adverse impact on your site’s performance. Some tools in this category also help you keep track of updates and new versions, so you can diagnose new problems more easily.

WordPress Plugins FAQs

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this guide, haven’t we? Nonetheless, the topic of WordPress plugin management runs pretty deep. To round things up, here are the answers to some commonly asked questions:

How Many Plugins Is Too Many?

Plugins vary massively in size, functionality, and quality. So, naming a definitive number is almost impossible.

If we talk in averages, anything up to 10-12 high-quality plugins is unlikely to cause major problems. Just be sure to avoid installing multiple plugins that do the same thing (e.g., two SEO plugins, or several backup plugins).

In most cases, anything up to 20 plugins will be fine. You might notice a little lag on page loading, although these effects can be reduced by optimizing your site, running caches, and using features like lazy loading.

Some business sites even use 50+ plugins. But at this point, you start to feel the burden of maintenance. Unless you’re a WordPress expert, it’s also quite difficult to run this many plugins without encountering conflicts and incompatibility. You absolutely need to know what you’re doing and select each plugin wisely.

TL;DR: Anything up to 12 plugins will be safe. Up to 20 plugins should be fine if you choose wisely and optimize your site. Anything over that will require a significant amount of work to maintain.

What Are Some Must-Have WordPress Plugins?

WordPress sites vary so much that it’s difficult to recommend any plugins that are going to work for everyone.

That said, the following plugins provide really useful features that will improve most sites:

• Jetpack: Made by one of the biggest WordPress contributors, this suite of tools provides upgrades for security, speed, share buttons, and more
• EWWW Image Optimizer: This plugin automatically optimizes any image files you upload so they load faster
• WPForms: Want visitors and customers to get in touch? This plugin helps you build custom forms via a drag-and-drop editor
• WooCommerce: The undisputed king of WordPress e-commerce plugins
• Spectra: This visual builder plugin adds over 30 blocks and templates to the Native WordPress Site Editor
• WP Mail SMTP: Install this plugin to configure WordPress for SMTP, meaning you’re more likely to reach your email list
• WP Super Cache: If your hosting plan doesn’t already include caching, this plugin is the next best thing

Are All Plugins From WordPress.org Safe?

The official Plugin Directory is probably the safest place to search for plugins, but it’s not perfect. 

Update history is usually a good gauge. If a plugin hasn’t been renewed in a couple of years, the code could be insecure. When in doubt, people will usually report threats in the forums, so make sure you check there.

WordPress Plugins? Treat With Care

To summarize everything we’ve covered in this guide, WordPress plugins can significantly improve your website. The trick is to use them in moderation. If you only install the tools you need and perform regular maintenance, you shouldn’t run into the potential problems of plugin overload.

Remember that your hosting provider can play a part here. At DreamHost, we offer managed plans to help keep your plugins up-to-date. We also provide hosting features that make some plugins redundant; our automated backups, for example.

Just as importantly, our expert Support team is available to help 24/7 if you ever have any issues with your site.

Sign up today for as little as $2.59/month to discover what great hosting feels like!

We Make WordPress Easier for You

Leave migrating your site, installing WordPress, managing security and updates, and optimizing server performance to us. Now you can focus on what matters most: growing your website.

Check Out Plans

The post To Plugin, Or Not To Plugin? That Is The Question appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

Obviously, no one wants security problems on their site. But the good news is that most SSL errors have simple fixes.  All it takes is a little troubleshooting to get your site back to full working order.

In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at how to install SSL certificates on your WordPress website and fix any problems that arise. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

What Is SSL/TLS Exactly?

SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, is the secret handshake of the internet. It’s a system that protects all data traveling between your web browser and a website using encryption. This prevents anyone from eavesdropping on your connection.

TLS (Transport Layer Security) is the new replacement for SSL. It performs the same role using similar technology but with improved security.

SSL/TLS works in conjunction with Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) — the updated, secure version of HTTP. Since it’s encrypted, HTTPS increases the security of any information that is transferred.

We still usually talk about “SSL issues” and “SSL certificates” because these terms are familiar, but it’s worth remembering that TLS has largely replaced the SSL protocol — Most modern browsers only support the latter.

Even so, SSL and TLS are used interchangeably when talking about secure connections.

What Is An SSL/TLS Certificate?

Before your web browser sends any data, it needs to verify the identity of the hosting web server. An SSL/TLS certificate works like an ID card, providing proof that the server is legitimate.

On a technical level, an SSL/TLS certificate is more like an encryption key. Without an up-to-date certificate, it’s impossible for any browser to connect to your website securely.

Why You Should Be Using SSL/TLS

Installing an SSL/TLS certificate on your WordPress site is important for several reasons.

First and foremost, it enables your hosting server to establish a secure connection with web browsers. This helps to prevent security breaches that may compromise both your personal information and your customer data.

For this reason, Google now penalizes sites that don’t have an SSL/TLS certificate. For example, it might display a “not secure” or “your connection is not private” warning message to users who try to access the site.

The exact wording of the message may vary depending on the browser you’re using, but the concept is the same.

Ultimately, this can hurt your engagement and hamper your SEO (search engine optimization) rankings. So, it’s another good reason to secure your site.

It’s also worth noting that certain types of websites really need an SSL certificate to work effectively. For instance, if you want to start an online store, you’ll need SSL/TLS encryption to accept online payments via gateways such as Stripe, PayPal, and Authorize.net.

How To Fix Common SSL Issues In WordPress (5 Key Solutions)

Now that we understand a little more about what SSL/TLS is, let’s get into the unexpected issues that can come from it.

Below are five of the most common SSL problems in WordPress, and how to resolve each of them.

1. The NET::ERR_CERT_INVALID Error

If you’re a Google Chrome user, one of the most common issues you might run into is an error message that reads “NET::ERR_CERT_INVALID.” This can happen in other browsers, too, although the message may differ slightly.

In both cases, this error means that the connection to the site is not secure. More specifically, it indicates that the certificate authority that signed your SSL certificate isn’t on your browser’s list of trustworthy providers.

Unless you acquired your SSL certificate from a shady source, it’s more likely that something is wrong with the settings or configuration.

When this happens, there are a few steps you can take. First, you’ll want to clear your browser cache. If that doesn’t do the trick, disable your antivirus software (this can interfere with SSL).

If local solutions don’t work, check that your SSL certificate is assigned to the correct domain or subdomain, and that it hasn’t expired.

You can do this by clicking on the small site information button or padlock icon to the left of the browser address bar. Details of the certificate will appear, and you’ll want to make sure it says “valid.” If it says “not valid,” you’ll need to renew it as soon as possible through the issuing provider, also listed here.

If you installed the certificate yourself, you could try reinstalling it. However, you may want to use a different certificate provider this time, as your browser might not recognize the issuing authority of your current certificate. We recommend using Let’s Encrypt.

If the certificate is assigned to the correct domain and is up to date, you may need to contact your hosting provider. They should know what steps to take to resolve the issue.

2. Mixed Content Errors

Another common type of error you can encounter when moving to SSL is mixed content warnings.

In a nutshell, this is what happens when images, scripts, or stylesheets on your site load while using the old, insecure HTTP protocol. In other words, some of your WordPress content is secure, while other parts aren’t. Embedded YouTube videos are commonly at fault here.

There are two methods you can use to fix mixed content issues. The first is to use a plugin such as Really Simple SSL.

When you install and activate the tool on your WordPress site, the plugin will offer you the option to activate SSL and fix mixed content issues right away. If you want to make any adjustments, you can visit the plugin via Settings > SSL & Security.

If you don’t want to use an automated plugin, the alternative option is the manual method. To get started here, navigate to Settings > General in WordPress.

Under WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL), check to make sure that the URLs are using “https.”

After you save your changes, you can install the Better Search Replace plugin.

With this tool, you can easily search for, find, and replace old URLs within your WordPress database. Once you have activated it, navigate to Tools > Better Search Replace.

In the Search for field, you can add your website URL with “http” at the beginning. Then, add “https” to the Replace with field.

When you’re done, save your changes. Now the mixed content errors should be gone when you refresh your site.

Note: Remember to back up your website, since this can affect your databases.

3. Too Many Redirects

Some SSL issues are caused by the too many redirects error. This can happen if you ask WordPress to enforce SSL/HTTPS for the admin area of your site.

To resolve this problem, you’ll need to edit your wp-config.php file. You can locate this file by using a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) client like FileZilla or the file manager in your web hosting account.

To access your site’s directory, open the folder labeled with your domain name. Inside it, you’ll find the wp-config.php file.

If you’re using FileZilla, the first step is to connect to your WordPress site. If this is your first time using the FTP client, you’ll need to obtain your credentials from your web host. Once connected, locate the wp-config.php file in your site’s directory.

Open the file and insert the following lines of code:

define('FORCE_SSL_ADMIN', true);
// in some setups HTTP_X_FORWARDED_PROTO might contain
// a comma-separated list e.g. http,https
// so check for https existence
if (strpos($_SERVER['HTTP_X_FORWARDED_PROTO'], 'https') !== false)
       $_SERVER['HTTPS']='on';

Make sure to add this at the bottom of the file, right before the line that reads, “That’s all. Stop editing! Happy blogging.” When you’re finished, save your changes and close the file.

4. HTTP To HTTPS Redirect

WordPress won’t automatically redirect your site from HTTP to HTTPS — you need to tell it to. Without creating these instructions, visitors could see SSL errors.

Since WordPress 5.7, it is possible to migrate to HTTPS with one click by following the instructions in the Site Health section of your WordPress dashboard. Go to Tools, select Site Health, and click the button to update your site to HTTPS.

If that option doesn’t work for your website, use a plugin such as Really Simple SSL — or you can manually configure the HTTP to HTTPS redirect by editing your .htaccess file. Again, you can do this via SFTP or the file manager in your hosting account. You will find it inside the folder that shares your domain name.

<IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]
</IfModule>

Remember to save your changes when you’re done. If you’re not comfortable editing your site’s files, we recommend using a plugin or contacting your hosting provider for assistance.

5. A Name Mismatch Error

The name mismatch error occurs when your domain name listed in the SSL certificate does not match the browser URL. This normally happens when you purchase a certificate from a third-party seller.To fix this error, you’ll simply need to add the following code to your .htaccess file:

<IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]
</IfModule>

Finish by saving your changes. When you revisit your WordPress site, you should no longer see any SSL error messages.

How To Fix Other Common WordPress Errors

Need to resolve other technical issues on your site? We’ve put together several guides to help you troubleshoot some of the most common WordPress errors

• Fixing the “White Screen of Death”
• How to Fix the 500 Internal Server Error
• How to Fix the Error Establishing a Database Connection
• How to Fix the WordPress 404 Not Found Error
• How to Fix White Text and Missing Buttons in the Visual Editor
• How to Fix the Sidebar Below Content Error
• How to Fix “Upload: Failed to Write File to Disk” Error

Check out our WordPress Tutorials section if you’re looking for tips and best practices for running a WordPress site. This is a collection of expert-written guides designed to help you navigate the WordPress dashboard like a pro.

SSL/TLS Error FAQs

Still have questions about SSL and TLS? You’ve come to the right place. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions, and the matching answers:

Do I need SSL for WordPress?

Technically no. But a website without SSL/TLS today is going to be flagged up with security warnings in every browser, and marked down severely by every search engine.

If your site handles any sensitive information, such as credit card details, going without SSL is just asking for trouble.

How do I manually install an SSL certificate on WordPress?

First, you need to buy and download your SSL certificate files. Then you need to generate a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) on your web server, activate and install your certificate, and update WordPress to use HTTPS.

Doing this all manually is a complex process, so we have dedicated SSL guides to help.

Why am I getting SSL error for every website?

It could be one of several reasons:

• Time and date settings: SSL certificates are sensitive to time. If your computer is set to the wrong time or date, it could invalidate the connection.
• Browser cache issues: Corrupted data in your browser cache can sometimes disrupt SSL/TLS verification.
• Software updates: Occasionally, bad updates can cause SSL/TLS errors.
• Antivirus software: These apps can interfere with SSL/TLS.
• Network proxies: You might start seeing SSL/TLS issues on every site if you’re using a misconfigured VPN.

Making WordPress Secure

Adding an SSL certificate to your WordPress website is really important if you want to maintain security and appear in search results. Normally, it’s a pretty straightforward process. But as we have discovered in this post, hiccups can happen.

To recap the most common errors and their resolutions:

• The NET::ERR_CERT_INVALID error suggests that your certificate needs to be renewed or reinstalled.
• Mixed content errors can be fixed manually, or with a plugin such as Really Simple SSL.
• Too many redirects can be resolved by adding code to your wp-config.php file.
• A WordPress HTTP to HTTPS redirect needs to be configured using a plugin such as Really Simple SSL, or manually via your site’s .htaccess file.
• A name mismatch error happens when the certificate domain and browser URL do not match; you’ll need to add code to your .htaccess file.

Setting up SSL on your WordPress website is free and easy with DreamHost.

All our plans include an SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt, and our support team is on hand 24/7 to guide you through the process.

Check out our DreamPress plans today to learn more. They come with the TLS certificate pre-installed for you!

The post How To Fix Common SSL Issues In WordPress appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

This scary notice isn’t just a deterrent for your visitors; it’s a big neon sign that your website’s security has been compromised. Oof!

But fear not! The great news is that we can rectify the situation.

Addressing the issue is about more than just removing the warning. It’s also about safeguarding your online reputation, protecting your visitors, and ensuring the integrity of your online presence.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of identifying and removing malware, and protecting your site from future attacks. Take a deep breath — it’s time to get started!

What Does “The Site Ahead Contains Malware” Mean?

When your browser throws up those dreaded words about malware, it means that a reputable online security service (like Google Safe Browsing, McAfee WebAdvisor, or Bitdefender) has detected something malicious lingering on your site.

This could be a virus, trojan, rootkit, ransomware, or any other nasty piece of code designed to cause chaos and wreak havoc on your digital life.

Google usually uses the warning message, “The site ahead contains malware.” Depending on the underlying issue, you may see one of these alternatives:

• Deceptive site ahead: Warning placed on phishing websites.
• The site ahead contains harmful programs: Google thinks the site might trick you into installing bad software.
• This page is trying to load scripts from unauthenticated sources: The site isn’t secure.
• Suspicious site: General purpose safety warning.

Some search engines display different warning messages based on how your site has been compromised. Depending on the severity of the threat, visitors may get the option to bypass this warning and proceed to your website anyway.

How A Malware Warning Affects Your Site

Obviously, this isn’t a good look for any website. Very few potential visitors will ignore the warning screen and click through anyway.

But there are even bigger problems to look out for.

Left unchecked, malware can infect your website visitors’ computers and mobile devices. It may attempt to steal passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive personal data. Some strains even allow hackers to seize complete control of your site to further their nefarious objectives.

Other downsides include:

• Loss of trust: Few things erode a website’s credibility faster than a malware alert. Even if you quickly clean up the infection, the fallout from that lapse in security can linger and cast doubts in customers’ minds.
• Tarnished brand: When visitors see security warnings, they assume you’re sloppy about security and indifferent to protecting user privacy. And word can spread quickly online.
• SEO implications: Search engines like Google take malware issues very seriously and penalize infected sites in their search rankings until they remove the malware. This can completely undermine your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts.
• Lost revenue: Ultimately, these side effects hit your balance sheet.

How To Remove A Malware Infection From Your WordPress Website

That’s enough with the horror stories. The quicker you start fixing the problem, the sooner you can forget about the whole thing!

Luckily, it can be a fairly simple process. Here are four easy steps to cure Google’s “contains malware” warning message and restore your site.

Step 1: Check Your Site Status In Safe Browsing

Many search engines have built-in mechanisms designed to help keep internet users safe. In addition to putting up a warning message, Google protects users by steering them away from infected sites. 
You can verify whether Google has blocklisted your website using the Site Status diagnostic tool.

Start by entering your WordPress site’s URL. The diagnostic tool will then run its tests and display a warning if it detects unsafe content.

If it does warn you about malicious content, your site has been denylisted. Given that Google accounts for 60% of U.S. desktop search queries, you need to take action swiftly.

Step 2: Track Down The Malicious Code

Once you’ve verified that malicious software has taken hold of your site, it’s time to track down the offending code and files.

While you can manually look for malware, it’s a time-consuming process that often requires technical know-how. Even if you know what you’re looking for, hackers always come up with new tricks — so it’s tough to manually identify every piece of malicious code.

If you miss some malware, search engines may continue to turn visitors away from your site. This means the hack will continue to impact your traffic, conversions, and search engine results.

In other words, you need to get it right.

Given the complexity of the task, we recommend using a professional malware removal tool or service. Our DreamShield add-on ensures your website is free from every trace of suspicious code.

When you add DreamShield to your plan, it immediately scans your site for malware. It then repeats this scan automatically every day. If DreamShield detects an issue, it notifies you via email and your DreamHost panel.

Thanks to this powerful tool, you could resolve a security breach before Google even realizes there’s a problem!

Follow these steps to add and enable DreamShield to your account.

Step 3: Delete The Malware Files

DreamShield routinely scans your site and notifies you about any issues. These notifications tell you how to remove the detected malware. Simply follow the instructions to eliminate the “site ahead contains malware” warning.

If you don’t have the DreamShield add-on, you must remove the malicious files manually. The best approach will vary, depending on the nature of the infection. However, you can often get the job done by connecting to your site via Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) using a client such as FileZilla.

Carefully work your way through all your site’s files and delete any compromised ones. To speed up the process, look for files with modification timestamps that occurred during the security breach. You might also want to examine ones where the timestamp seems suspicious — for example, files dated after you last edited your site.

Some hackers try to insert code into the .htaccess file. To sanitize this file, connect to your site using an SFTP client. Then, navigate to your public_html directory, which contains the .htaccess file.

Delete this file, and then switch over to your WordPress dashboard. You can now navigate to Settings > Permalinks. Then, simply click on Save Changes at the bottom of the page.

WordPress will automatically generate a new .htaccess file that’s completely free from malicious code.

Step 4: Submit A Review Request

Once you’re confident that you’ve vanquished every trace of malware, you can ask Google and other search engines to rescan your site.

If you haven’t already done so, sign up on Google Search Console and verify that you own the website in question.

After claiming your site, log in to the Search Console and navigate to Security & Manual Actions > Security Issues. On the next page, select Request Review.

In the pop-up form, check the box marked All issues were fixed and make sure to explain:

• What the issue was
• The steps you have taken to resolve the problem
• Some proof of your work

Finally, hit Submit Request to finish.

Google will now process your request and send a response to your Google Webmaster account or your Messages in Search Console. This can take a few days to a few weeks.

Assuming you’ve erased all malicious code, Google will remove the “site ahead contains malware” warning, and you can resume business as usual.

For instructions on requesting a review on other search engines, check the webmaster support documentation for those platforms.

How To Prevent Future “Site Ahead Contains Malware” Warnings

Now that you’re back in Google’s good books, it’s a good idea to perform a security audit. In other words, check the walls of your castle.

While no website can ever be 100% secure, there are some preventative measures you can take to strengthen your defenses and tie up security vulnerabilities. Here are some of the most important:

Upgrade Your Password

A strong password is your first line of defense for preventing unauthorized access to your dashboard. Even if you have multiple security mechanisms, a hacker who manages to guess or steal your login credentials can devastate your website.

To start, follow password best practices. Security experts recommend using a minimum of eight characters and a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Then, consider using a password manager such as Dashlane or LastPass.

Implement 2FA

Two-factor authentication (2FA) makes your site far less susceptible to password-based attacks, including credential stuffing. If you have 2FA in place, a hacker must pass an additional security check before they can access your website. For example, they may need to enter a one-time PIN sent to your smartphone.

This can be enough of a deterrent to make malicious hackers move their attention to other sites.

Use Secure Hosting

Your choice of hosting provider affects the overall security of your WordPress website. Some providers offer excellent protection with extra security features, while others cut corners.

At DreamHost, we apply automatic security and core file updates to every WordPress site to patch any gaps in your defenses. We also enable mod_security by default; this Web Application Firewall (WAF) blocks known HTTP requests. And speaking of protocols, we support HTTP/2 on all managed plans.

For an extra layer of security, grab our DreamShield add-on. This malware scanner automatically checks your site weekly for malicious code.

Backup Your WordPress Site

Some malware infections wipe data from your website. To ensure you don’t lose any content, backup your site regularly.

You can perform backups manually via SFTP, your cPanel file manager, a specialist backup plugin, or your hosting provider. By default, we back up all DreamHost sites automatically every day.

No matter how you do your backups, keep them in secure, off-site storage. You should also test these backups regularly to ensure they can restore your site to full working order if needed.

Get An SSL Certificate

We always recommend installing a Secure Sockets Layer certificate (sometimes referred to as an SSL certificate or secure certificate). This ensures you transfer data via Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) instead of Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). 

Encrypting your data makes it much harder for an attacker to obtain information they can use against you. That’s why all our hosting plans come with a free SSL/TLS certificate.

Install Security Plugins

Just as you might run antivirus software on your PC, you can protect your WordPress site using specialized security plugins.

These tools introduce features like secure login, firewall protection, and security auditing. Many are free to install, with advanced tools tied to a premium plan. Check out our list of must-have WordPress plugins to see your best options.

Practice Safe Browsing

As a general rule in life, avoid clicking on questionable links. At best, they might take you to the dark side of the web. At worst, they could harbor infected files.

While harmful software can’t directly affect your WordPress site, a virus could give hackers an entry route to your site. The same goes for browser extensions and harmful content distributed through links in phishing emails.

Choose your Wi-Fi connection carefully to manage your WordPress site away from home or the office. Many public networks are insecure, and some are even set up by hackers to collect sensitive information. If you have to use an unknown network, run a VPN to keep your connection secure.

Use Plugins And Themes From Trusted Sources

Some third-party vendors offer WordPress plugins and themes for free. While these offers might sound tempting, malicious websites occasionally spread malware through such downloads.

It’s safer to stick with the official WordPress Plugin Directory and Theme Directory, or trusted sources of third-party plugins and themes.

In addition, look for products that receive regular updates and have good user reviews. These are both indicators of reliability and security.

Track User Activity

Ideally, you want to stop hackers from gaining access to your site at all. But this isn’t always possible. The next best thing is to detect unauthorized access before the damage occurs.

Using plugins like WP Activity Log, monitor login attempts and user activities for warning signs. For instance, an unusual spike in login attempts from foreign IP addresses could indicate a brute-force attack or some other malicious activity.

Early detection allows you to respond swiftly, potentially preventing attackers from injecting bad code or creating backdoors. At the very least, you can set your malware removal service on the case.

WordPress Malware FAQs

Cybersecurity is a complex subject. If you still have questions about malware, warning messages, or WordPress security threats, we have answers.

What does the “deceptive site ahead” warning mean?

The deceptive site warning is an alternative to “The site ahead contains malware.” Along with malware, spam links, suspicious downloads, pages linked with phishing attacks, compromised SSL, and other deceptive content can trigger this warning.

How do I get rid of advanced malware?

If your security scanner hasn’t effectively removed all malware from your WordPress site, you can attempt manual removal. (Note: Be careful here. It’s easy to mess up your site!)

Search the files on your site for lines of code starting with script=> or iframe src=URL>. These are telltale signs of malware, particularly when the URL links to somewhere you don’t recognize.

As a last resort, consider reinstalling WordPress. To do this:

1. Grab a fresh copy of the CMS from WordPress.
2. Unzip the download file.
3. Delete the wp-config.php file and the wp-content folder.
4. Upload all the other files to your server via the cPanel File Manager or your FTP client.

You could also contact a professional recovery service. This is always the safest approach if you aren’t confident about what you’re doing.

Why is my computer saying every website is unsafe?

There are two common causes of this problem:

1. Your device’s time or date is incorrect, triggering certain security checks. Check your system settings to fix this.
2. Your device’s security software is interfering with your browser. To troubleshoot this issue, check the support pages of your chosen browser.

Secure Your Site With Better Hosting

Any warning message on your site is likely to set the alarm bells ringing in your head. The “site ahead contains malware” screen is one such warning.

As we have established, this alert isn’t a reason to panic. If you follow four key steps, you’ll clear the message quickly and your site will ride high once again:

1. Check your site status
2. Use a malware removal tool
3. Delete the malicious files
4. Submit a review request

If you want to reduce the chances of your site falling victim to malicious hackers, we’re here to help. At DreamHost, all our plans come with key security features, and our in-house team of experts is available 24/7 to help with technical issues. And WordPress plans start at just $2.59 per month.

Sign up today to start unlocking the benefits of secure, reliable hosting.

Power Your Website with DreamHost

We make sure your website is fast, secure and always up so your visitors trust you.

Choose Your Plan

The post Don’t Panic! How To Fix “The Site Ahead Contains Malware” appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

Hold onto your butts because we’ve got an absolute game-changer for you! The Block Visibility plugin is your ticket to effortless customization.

Gone are the days when you depended on multiple plugins to tweak those pesky visibility settings.

Block Visibility simplifies your life and empowers you with total control over your WordPress site.

In this article, we’re diving headfirst into this powerful little plugin. From its user-friendly interface to unparalleled control features, you’ll discover how it can transform your content creation experience.

By the end, you’ll be ready to jazz up your posts and time your content like a pro! So, let’s journey together and unlock your website’s true potential.

What Is Block Visibility?

Block Visibility is a WordPress plugin that improves the functionality of the block editor (Gutenberg). This plugin gives users more visibility and control over their content. It encompasses various elements provided by WordPress and third-party additions, extends to block-based widgets, and even works with the Full Site Editor.

One notable aspect of Block Visibility is its ability to manage native (within WordPress) and third-party blocks. Examples of third-party blocks are embedded widgets, adverts, or analytics tools offered by third-party vendors or platforms.

With Block Visibility, you can manage content display through control conditions. These conditions encompass factors such as user roles, login status, device kinds, referrer URLs, geographical zones, and more.

The role control conditions enable personalized messaging and the display of conditional blocks for certain audiences. Website owners can also schedule blocks to appear or disappear at intervals.

Key Features Of Block Visibility

Let’s explore some of the key features that make block visibility such a powerful tool for WordPress administrators and developers.

Visibility Controls

Visibility controls are robust features that enable you to regulate the visibility of content blocks on their sites. Here is a closer look at what visibility control entails:

Display Blocks Based On Certain User Roles

This feature enables customization of content visibility on a webpage depending on users’ assigned roles, such as administrator, subscriber, customer, or member.

For instance, administrators would have access to backend controls and settings, while subscribers would see exclusive content related to their subscriptions. On the other hand, customers might view product-related information, and members would access content tailored to their membership.

Use Post And User Metadata To Specify Visibility Conditions

This feature allows you to set conditions based on post and user metadata. Metadata is additional information associated with posts (such as articles or pages) and users on your website. It could include custom fields that offer more detailed information about the content or users.

For example, you could choose to display a promotional block only on posts tagged as “technology” or “fashion.” This will ensure that the promotion reaches the most relevant audience.

Display Blocks Based On A Visitor’s Referral Source

When someone visits your website, they may come via a link from another site. So, you can manage what they see on your website based on the domain or URL the visitor clicked to get there.

For example, if a visitor gets to your online bookstore through a link shared on a book review website, you could display a personalized recommendation block showcasing books similar to those reviewed on the referring site.

Schedule When Content Should Be Visible

You can set start and end dates/times for seasonal content visibility. This will enable you to control when certain blocks appear on your website. For instance, you can schedule a block advertising winter ski packages to appear from November to March and switch to promoting summer activities during other months.

Show Or Hide Dynamic Blocks Based On URL Query Strings

Here, you can choose to display or hide blocks based on URL query parameters. URL parameters are employed to track the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.

For instance, if a visitor clicks on a campaign link promoting a summer sale, you can configure dynamic blocks to display relevant products based on the parameters within the URL. This approach differs from displaying blocks based on referral sources, as it allows for more precise customization tied to specific campaign details within the URL.

Hide Blocks From All Users

You can hide certain blocks completely from being displayed to any website visitor. This means that nobody will be able to see the content you’ve hidden.

For example, if you’re redesigning your website’s homepage, you can hide sections undergoing updates until the changes are complete, preventing visitors from seeing incomplete content. Additionally, you could use this feature to hide internal documents or sensitive information not intended for public view.

Block Visibility Using HTML Cookies

HTML cookies contain information about the user’s browsing history, preferences, and other relevant data. You can manage blocks on your website based on the presence or absence of some cookies in the user’s browser.

For instance, if a user has previously visited a section of your site, you can use a cookie to remember their preference and show relevant content when they return.

Default Visibility Controls

Default visibility controls ensure consistent display messaging across your website. This feature is a convenient way to establish a baseline visibility configuration for your content blocks.

For example, you can set a default visibility rule to always display a site-wide promotional banner, guaranteeing that visitors see the offer regardless of the page they navigate.

Integration With Third-Party Plugins

Block Visibility integrates with common third-party plugins. These simple plugins offer excellent compatibility:

WooCommerce

The WooCommerce integration with block visibility lets you control content display based on key e-commerce parameters like order status and purchase history.

For instance, you can block the content of specific products or categories. Also, you can customize content visibility based on control conditions, i.e., a user’s cart. Doing this will tailor the user experience, promote relevant products, and optimize conversions on your WooCommerce website.

Advanced Custom Fields (ACF)

Advanced Custom Fields is a popular WordPress plugin that allows users to add custom fields to their WordPress websites. Adding ACF with block visibility enhances your flexibility options as a content creator or developer.

Also, you can create custom fields and assign them to other content categories like posts, pages, and custom post types.

Easy Digital Downloads

Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) is a common WordPress e-commerce plugin that allows the sales of digital products. EDD integration enhances your online store by allowing you to display conditional content based on EDD-specific rules.

This makes it easier to target the right audience based on many factors like digital products sold, customer’s shopping cart, purchase history, and current orders.

WP Fusion

WP Fusion is a plugin that connects WordPress websites with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Keap. It enables seamless synchronization of user information, e-commerce data, content engagement metrics, and segmentation tags between WordPress and CRM platforms.

WP Fusion allows you to customize the visibility of content blocks based on user data stored in the CRM.

Other Features

Contextual Color Indicator

Incorporating visual cues into the user interface, symbols, or markers efficiently convey visibility settings for specific blocks.

Let’s say you use a green indicator for publicly visible blocks and a red indicator for those restricted to certain user roles. Additionally, you can customize the contextual indicator color to enhance theme compatibility.

Visibility Presets

Visibility presets allow you to apply the same settings to multiple blocks at once. For instance, if you have a website with a homepage, header, sidebar, and footer, you may want to display messaging to logged-in members.

Instead of going to each section one by one and setting rules, you can create a preset. Call it “Members Only” and apply it to all relevant blocks at once. This saves a lot of time, especially if you have many sections to manage.

Configurable Breakpoints

Configurable breakpoints allow you to optimize screen size controls. It ensures that content visibility rules adapt well across all devices (phones, tablets, and computers) and screen sizes.

So, if you have a big image on your website that looks good on a computer but too big on a phone, you can set a breakpoint to hide that image on smaller screens. This way, people will see the content clearly regardless of their device.

How To Use Block Visibility

Before we dig into how to use block visibility, there are a couple of options to keep in mind. Thankfully, they’re quite minimal.

First, you’ll need a WordPress site with the WordPress Site Editor.

Step 1: Go to the toolbar menu and select Plugins.

Step 2: Click “Add New Plugin.”

Step 3: Search for “Block Visibility” in the keyword box at the top right.

Step 4: Then select the Block Visibility — Conditional Visibility Control for the Block Editor by Nick Diego

Step 5: Click the “Install Now” button.

Step 6: Once the installation is complete, click the Activate button to enable the plugin on your WordPress site.

There you have it!

How To Use Block Visibility In A Post

Without further ado, follow the simple steps below to use block visibility in a post.

Step 1: Create a post and click on a block.

Step 2: Scroll down to the block settings on the right, then choose Visibility.

Step 3: You’ll see “Visibility Controls” under the block settings (for some blocks).

Step 4: Click a certain condition and set a rule.

Step 5: Choose an option to manage your block’s visibility on the current post. For instance, schedule the block with a date.

Step 6: Once you’re done, do not forget to click on Save Draft, Update, or Publish. Do this so you won’t lose your draft.

Bravo! You now understand how to use WordPress’ Block Visibility plugin.

Benefits Of Block Visibility

Block visibility offers several key benefits to empower you to adapt and respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. Let’s take a look at them.

• Targeted content: When you set conditional visibility controls, you’ll be able to decide what a visitor sees and when content shows up. This implies that you can give people personalized content that’s most relevant to them.
• Ease of use: Block Visibility offers an intuitive interface that requires no coding expertise. You can easily control when and where blocks appear on your website without understanding complex code or technical details.
• Adapts to user behavior: Block visibility can be configured to adapt to user behavior or preferences. As such, you can offer content based on a previous or current user’s interaction or demography.
• Improved user experience: Using scheduling controls to provide relevant content at the right time can enhance the user experience. This can lead to higher engagement, longer time spent on the site, and customer satisfaction.
• Optimized page layout: It allows you to manage web page layout by controlling the placement and timing of different content elements using time controls. This will help prevent clutter and ensure that users don’t get overwhelmed with too much information.

FAQs

Who should use block visibility?

Block Visibility is suitable for anyone who wants more control over the visibility of content blocks on their WordPress website. It is ideal for website owners, marketers, bloggers, and developers.

Do conditional visibility controls work with any block?

Yes, conditional visibility controls work with any block on your WordPress website, whether it’s a native WordPress block or a block-based widget. You can apply conditional visibility controls to manage when and where blocks appear on your site.

However, some specialized blocks, like child blocks, are not included by default. An example of this is the individual Column block within the larger Columns block.

What is full control mode?

Full control mode gives you extensive control over the visibility of content blocks on the WordPress site. You can access advanced content visibility control for full site editing in this mode. You’ll be able to manage third-party blocks and block-based widgets.

Ready To Customize Your WordPress Website?

When implemented correctly, hiding certain blocks on your WordPress site can improve your visitors’ user experience. The Block Visibility plugin can allow you to create time-sensitive offers and persuade your audience to subscribe to unique content.

Integrating your WordPress site with DreamHost ensures continuous customization, reliability, and responsiveness. Explore our WordPress Hosting plans today and take your website to the next level.

WordPress + DreamHost

Our automatic updates and strong security defenses take server management off your hands so you can focus on creating a great website.

Check Out Plans

The post Effortless WordPress Customization With Block Visibility appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.

You have an idea for a great website. You buy a domain, grab some bulletproof hosting, and spend hours creating a truly delightful design. Visitors start arriving, and maybe you make some sales.

Then, one day, you begin seeing comments that have nothing to do with your content. They link to weight loss pills or some other scam website.

More and more begin popping up. Eventually, you’re trying to swat them away like wasps at a picnic.

Sound familiar? This horror show is the exact problem the Akismet anti-spam plugin is designed to fix. In this complete guide, we will show you why it’s so valuable, and how to set up protection for your website.

What Is Akismet Exactly?

Akismet is a spam protection service designed primarily for websites that accept user comments or submissions via a contact form. It was created by Automattic, the same company behind WordPress.com.

The Akismet WordPress plugin lets you set up automatic spam detection on your self-hosted website. It’s free to download and pretty easy to set up.

Once installed, the plugin can help you find and delete unwanted comments with minimal effort.

Akismet is also part of the popular Jetpack suite of WordPress plugins, which is another Automattic product.

Akismet Pricing

Akismet spam protection is offered on a “pay what you can” license for personal use, such as your personal blog.

For commercial projects, you can protect smaller websites for $9.95 per month (billed annually) or cover unlimited medium-sized commercial sites for $49.95 per month. For the online giants, Akismet offers custom enterprise packages.

Akismet is also available for $9.95 per month for the first year (then $19.95) as part of the Jetpack Security bundle. You actually get more for your money with this than with the commercial plans, because of the additional features.

Top tip: our DreamPress PLUS and PRO plans come with the full Jetpack suite pre-installed, including Akismet!

How Akismet Spam Detection Works

Any site owner can distinguish between a genuine comment and a spam entry. But how does an app tell the difference?

In the case of Akismet, there are five parts to the puzzle:

1. Data Collection: When a user adds a comment to your website, Akismet notes the author’s email address and IP address, along with any URLs included in the comment and other relevant information.
2. Content Analysis: Akismet uses machine learning algorithms to spot the common features of spam comments, like links to unpopular websites and spammy language.
3. Database Comparison: Over time, Akismet has recorded thousands of IP addresses and misleading links that are associated with spam submissions. Every new comment is checked against this database.
4. Spam Scoring: Based on these tests, each comment or submission gets a spam score. Anything over a certain threshold goes straight to the spam folder. The comment is also blocked or moved into your moderation queue.
5. Continuous Learning: Whenever a site owner marks a flagged comment as not spam, Akismet records the false positive. This data is constantly fed back into the system to improve accuracy.

It’s an impressive system, isn’t it? Plus, unlike other anti-spam systems, Akismet does not require anyone to solve complicated captchas. It’s saved the sanity of many site owners over the years!

Why You Need Spam Filters

Spam messages might not seem like a big deal, particularly if your site is quite new. It’s no worse than deleting a couple of emails every day, right?

Actually, it’s much worse than that.

According to Akismet, the average user saves 20 hours per month by automating spam protection. While this figure is probably bumped up by giant businesses, dealing with spam is still a massive time waster for smaller sites.

And spam isn’t just an annoyance. Automated spam bots can bombard your site with so much trash that it stops working. Akismet says that businesses lose 3.6% of annual revenue through such attacks.

We know what you’re thinking: “They would say that.”

Whether you believe the exact figures or not, spam is not a problem to be taken lightly. Over the years, Akismet has removed over 500 billion pieces of spam from 100 million websites.

It’s hard to argue with the numbers.

Setting Up Akismet: Block Spam In 5 Easy Steps

While Akismet uses some pretty advanced technology behind the scenes, setting up the plugin is very easy. Here’s how to start protecting your site from spam:

Step 1: Install/Enable The Akismet Plugin

Akismet is one of the plugins that comes with your WordPress installation by default. As such, you can begin by checking that Akismet is already installed and activated.

Start by visiting the Admin area of your WordPress site and navigate to Plugins. If you don’t see Akismet listed, then select Add New Plugin.

Next, use the search bar in the top-right of the Plugin Directory to find Akismet. This is the one you want:

Click Install Now, and then hit Activate on your newly installed plugin.

(Setting up Akismet as part of Jetpack on a DreamPress account? Here’s how to install the plugin.)

Step 2: Get The Akismet API Key

Next, we need to grab an API key. This short string of characters allows Akismet to link your WordPress site to your account. Essentially, it’s like a confirmation code.

To get your API key, visit Settings > Akismet Anti‑spam and then click on Set up your Akismet Account.

You will then be taken to Akismet’s website, where you choose your plan and sign up. Once you have created your account, Akismet will give you access to the key.

If you’re using Jetpack, you don’t need a key. Instead, head to Jetpack > Akismet Anti‑spam and hit the green Connect with Jetpack button. This will allow you to hook up your account.

Step 3: Add The Akismet API Key

As a final step, return to Settings > Akismet Anti‑spam within the WordPress Admin area.

Here, you should see a link marked Manually enter an API key. Click this, and enter your API key.

Step 4: Test The Spam Filters

Once you have finished installing the spam-blocking plugin, Akismet should be able to scan all incoming blog comments and contact form messages.

You can verify this using a neat little built-in test.

Simply add a comment or make a contact form submission with these exact details:

• Name: akismet-guaranteed-spam
• Email: akismet-guaranteed-spam@example.com
• Comment Text: akismet‑guaranteed‑spam

If Akismet is working properly, you shouldn’t see the comment on your site. Instead, you can find it by visiting Comments > Spam in the Admin area.

Step 5: Configure Your Contact Forms

Akismet plays nicely with most popular WordPress contact form plugins. If you use Jetpack Forms, the integration is seamless.

However, some contact plugins require a little configuration:

Contact Form 7

You will need to add a couple of options to your form fields to get Akismet working with Contact Form 7. (If you want the ability to manually mark them as spam/not spam, you will also need the Flamingo plugin from the same developer).

Gravity Forms

Grab the dedicated Akismet Add‑On to integrate Akismet with any of your forms.

Elementor Forms

Akismet only works with Elementor Pro, and you’ll need to add an Akismet Anti‑spam filter to your forms.

Other Form Plugins

If in doubt, head to the knowledge base for your chosen plugin for details on how to configure Akismet.

Tracking And Blocking Spam With Akismet

At long last, the curse of spammy comments is coming to an end. All that remains is to adjust Akismet to match your preferences.

Within your Admin area, visit Settings > Akismet Anti-spam. At the top of the page, you will see a graph and some stats relating to spam blocking.

If you want a closer look, click on Detailed stats in the top-right corner of the graph.

For an even more exhaustive view of all the spam you’ve destroyed, Akismet offers an Advanced Stats feature on all commercial plans. You can access this option via your account dashboard on Akismet’s website.

Spam Blocker Settings

You can’t really adjust how Akismet blocks spam, but you can decide how the plugin handles comments and submissions.

Below the stats zone, you will find the relevant options.

These are split into three mini sections:

• Comments: Here you can choose to see the number of approved comments next to each user. This is useful for picking out real users from the potential spammers.
• Spam filtering: When a new comment lights up the spam filters, Akismet can either place it in the spam folder or delete it completely. Be aware that the discard feature only applies to the worst offenders.
• Privacy: To help you comply with GDPR and other privacy laws, Akismet gives you the option to display a privacy notice under your forms.

Once you’ve chosen your settings, you can sit back and let Akismet rid your site of spam!

Akismet Anti-Spam FAQs

Akismet is a pretty straightforward tool, but you might still have some lingering questions. Don’t worry — we’ve got all the answers.

Is The Akismet Premium Version Worth It?

If you’re running a site to promote a business or make money, you need to upgrade to the commercial version. Which plan you choose depends entirely on how much spam you need to filter. And this tends to track with traffic.

Can I Use Akismet For Free?

Technically, yes. While Automattic encourages you to contribute toward a personal license, you can choose to pay nothing at all.

What Is The Difference Between OOPSpam and Akismet?

Both of these plugins offer automated spam filtering. Akismet is the more simple and affordable tool. OOPSpam offers slightly more advanced filtering, and it can even tell you why a comment was marked as spam. However, pricing starts at $40.83/month.

Make Your Website Invincible

For a wide variety of sites, spam can be a real problem. Using an anti-spam tool such as Akismet makes sense if you want to maintain a good user experience for your visitors. It makes policing comments easier, and also helps you avoid potentially harmful messages.

At DreamHost, we’re all about protecting your website. Our managed WordPress plans (PLUS and PRO) include Akismet protection via Jetpack Professional. All our hosting plans come with an SSL certificate for extra security. And if anything ever happens to your site, you can restore the whole thing via our backup feature.

With plans starting at just $2.59 per month, it’s a no-brainer. Sign up today to try it for yourself!

The post Sayonara, Spam: Why WordPress Users Love Akismet appeared first on Website Guides, Tips & Knowledge.