If you’re new to WordPress, you might be confused about the difference between a self-hosted WordPress.org site and a website at WordPress.com.
Although both options use the same basic WordPress software, there are some key differences. This article will explain the main features of each platform to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com – What’s the Difference?
WordPress.org and WordPress.com are different because of who hosts your website, what features it has, and how much control you have over it.
WordPress.org & Self Hosted WordPress
WordPress.org is a free, open-source software that makes it easy to create a website. You can install and use this software on any service that “hosts” websites. This means you have the freedom to choose the hosting plan and control the environment your site will reside on. That is why it’s often referred to as “self hosted WordPress”.
With some hosts you will have to install WordPress yourself manually. But with InMotion, all WordPress Hosting plans come with WordPress already installed. If you do not purchase a “managed” hosting environment, there may be times when you have to perform updates or upgrades to the server. While typically pretty simple, it’s something that you would be in charge of.
With a self-hosted WordPress site, you have complete control over your website. You can use any plugin or theme you want, and you can even modify the core WordPress files. This means you can make your website exactly how you want it, without any limitations.
For example, you could use a plugin to sell products from your website, or you could modify the coding to add a new feature. You can also test out new software before it’s officially released, which can give you an edge over your competitors.
If you don’t have a self-hosted WordPress site, you won’t have the same level of control. You may have to pay for upgrades to access certain features, and you may not be able to make the changes you want to your website.
Want to start selling eCommerce products from your website? Install a plugin such as WooCommerce and start selling immediately. So, if you want the most flexibility and control over your website, a self-hosted WordPress site is the way to go.
WordPress.com
WordPress.com is a hosting service that includes WordPress software. Since the environment and WordPress installation is preconfigured with a specific suite of plugins and themes, there is a loss of certain freedoms.
If you are only looking for some specific features and do not plan on expanding your site in the future, this can be a no-hassle solution. Since WordPress.com manages the core files, plugins, and themes, this means they will keep them updated for you. While it’s usually just a matter of clicking an upgrade button, it’s one less thing to worry about.
Which One Is Right For You?
If the idea of setting up software on a server or backing up your data scares you, then WordPress.com might be a good choice for you. It’s a simple option for a basic blog or website.
If you want to control your own website and make money from it, you should consider using a self-hosted WordPress site. This type of website can grow with your business and you won’t run out of space. You can start with a basic hosting plan and then upgrade to a more powerful one if needed.
Here’s a quick comparison of the main features of similar WordPress plans from InMotion Hosting and WordPress.com.
Feature | UpspeedHosting WP Launch Plan | WordPress.com Pro Plan |
Price | Starting at $0.99 per month | $15 per month, billed yearly |
Domain Name Included | Yes | Yes |
Storage Space | 20GB SSD Storage | 50GB |
Live Support Included | 24/7/365 Support via chat or email. Phone Support 5 days of the week. | Chat Support 5 of the week. Unlimited email support. |
Free SSL Included | Yes | Yes |
Increase PHP Limitations | Yes | No |
Ability to Change WordPress Core Files | Yes | No |
Plugins Allowed | Unlimited | Limited |
Themes Allowed | Unlimited | Limited |
Professional Email | Unlimited | Free for 3 months |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 14 days |
Host Website | Yes | Yes |
Host Blog | Yes | Yes |
Shipping Integration Allowed | Yes | No |
Unlimited Products/Items | Yes | No |
How to Self Host WordPress
If you want to create your own website and be in charge of everything, you can easily set up WordPress yourself. It only takes a few minutes to go from nothing to a personalized website. Here’s how to do it:
- Purchase web hosting such as Upspeedhosting WP Launch WordPress Hosting plan. This plan includes a domain name that you can select when you register. You can also transfer an existing domain name or register one with your preferred registrar.
- Login to your WordPress Dashboard.
- Install a theme and any plugins that you want to use.
- Start customizing your site.
It’s really that easy!
Need WordPress Hosting?
Upspeedhosting’s WordPress Hosting is the best! It offers great performance, security, and is easy to use. You can get started quickly and easily with a free domain name and pre-installed WordPress. You can then customize your site with free WordPress themes.
Get the most out of our fast and secure WordPress setup. Enjoy free SSD storage, NGINX caching, and a CDN service. Your website is safeguarded by our security suite, which includes free SSL, malware, hack, and DDoS protection.
Our Nigerian customer service team is available every day, all year round to help you. If you’re not happy with our service, we’ll give you a full refund within 30 days.
2 Comments
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Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.