If you’re just getting started with WordPress, there are a few important things to know. First up, you’ll need to know the difference between WordPress.com vs. WordPress.org.
- WordPress.com is the hosted version of WordPress, where you can create a WordPress.com account to make a blog or website.
- By default, your website’s URL or domain will include the word “WordPress,” like myblog.wordpress.com.
- Paid upgrades include a custom domain, Google Analytics integration, more storage space, the ability to add your own plugins and themes and more.
- WordPress.com is owned by Automattic, a company founded by one of the original WordPress creators, Matt Mullenweg.
- WordPress.org is where you can download the WordPress software to install on your own server or web hosting account.
- The WordPress software is open-source, so it is free to download and use.
- To use the WordPress.org version of WordPress, you’ll need to have a domain name and web hosting, purchased from another reputable company like Liquidweb.
- Most web hosts offer a WordPress “quick install” or done-for-you installations of WordPress to help you get started if you don’t want to install WordPress yourself.
- WordPress.org is the non-profit foundation of Automattic.
