Introduction:
WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) based on PHP and MySQL that can be used to create your own website or blog. In the earliest days of the Internet, websites have been created in programming language like HTML which makes use of instructions termed ‘tags’ to format text, images, page layouts and so on. Then the web browser reads this HTML code, interprets the tags for rendering and displaying the content of a particular page. Nowadays, you can install the WordPress software script on your own web server within 5 minutes. After installed, you will use a simple, web-based editor for creating web pages that does not need the knowledge of HTML. Even there is a hosted version at Wordpress.com which enables to create a new WordPress-powered website in a few seconds.
A Brief History Of WordpressCMS
History of WordPress dates back to 2003, it was launched as the successor of existing blogging tool b2/ cafe log. This was developed by Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little. The first WordPress version entailed of a new admin interface, new templates and generated XHTML 1.1 compliant themes also. In the year 2004 WordPress presented a new mechanism termed Plug-ins, which allowed the users to extend the functionality by writing their Plug-ins and enables to share with the community. WordPress 1.2 created a good platform for blogging which expanded its user rate rapidly. A new trend was marked in the history of WordPress in 2005 by launching its first theme “Kubrick” and a new admin dashboard. This version enabled the user to add simple features without the need for loading page every time and also add several categories or tags to the post. “Automatic” version a renowned contributions of WordPress is introduced 2006. Trade registration and logo for WordPress is filed in 2006. WordPress 2.1 versions was developed in 2007 which comprised of a new user interface, spell checking and auto save. The WordPress trademark and logo ownership was transferred to WordPress Foundation in 2010 which was a notable moment in WordPress history. The version 3.9 propelled in 2014 brought improvement in visual post editor which enabled user to drag and drop images and allow preview of galleries. With rapid growth WordPress has exceeded 40,000 plugins now.
What Makes WordPress the Most Popular CMS
Open-source – It is an open source CMS which means that the developers can use that has been written and used already without the need to modify or start from beginning. With this open source CMS, a private company cannot delete your content on their own without any reason. This implies that you will not lose your content when you publish it with WordPress. Hence it is not only an economical viable option but also gives a complete ownership over the content.
Easy to use
WordPress does not necessitate the knowledge of PHP or HTML coding. It has rich preinstalled features simple to install plugins, and designing is made easy with their templates. You do not have to hire a technical assistance for making changed in the website which will save your money and time. Basic websites can be built with easy access to all on page text and images. And with a little technical knowledge you can custom modules and text content.
Large developer community
WordPress is one of the largest online communities to draw on support and tricks. Users can constantly improve the website and create and revise custom plug-ins for various uses. WordPress is used over 20% of all the websites that enables anyone contribute to the source code making the platform better. This helps you when you need a feature to be added to your website, you could find a good chance to find a plugin that exists for it.
Plugins
Plugins are the tools which help to extend the functionality of WordPress. With 45,000 plugins available you can turn WordPress into a radio or photography content management system as much easy like installing software.
Built-in blogging
WordPress started as a blog engine, and even though it has changed substantially, since blogging is yet at the platform’s core. Hence setting up and maintaining a basic blog is made simple and intuitive with WordPress CMS.
Cheaper to build
Since WordPress is an open source platform you need not to pay a license fee. You can get everything you required to build a basic website. The cost to purchase and install a WordPress theme is very less when compared to a custom built website.
Disadvantages Of WordPress CMS
Easy for hackers to find security holes As this is an open source freely available on the internet, it is easy for the hackers to find security holes. Furthermore, as every programmer have engaged in prior usage of this code this can intentionally create malicious code into the published code. Your website may be vulnerable to cyber-attacks as the code used has been already written by somebody; the possibility is that it may have some malicious code or bug that will hinder the functionality of the website.
Excess of plugins
Usage of excessive plug-ins can affect the website performance making it slower and decrease the response time. This plug-ins affects the scripts efficiency. Also there arises a problem when you choose a plug-in for a specific functionality. Because any given functionality can be added by different plugins that were created by different authors.
Frequent updates
WordPress needs to be updated regularly as new updates get released every year to overcome pirates and hackers and also for improving codes and themes. This can lead to problems with certain plugins of your website. They may not be compatible with the WordPress new version. Moreover, if you do any changes to the files and folders that included in the main WordPress installation, then you will lose all changes when you upgrade.
Conclusion
WordPress CMS will grow bigger in the upcoming years without any doubt. Being part of its large community and as open source platform may seem like a double edged sword. But being stay informed and with best basic practices you can be safe with WordPress website. If you decide to move forward with a WordPress content management system, the key to protect your website is to keep your plugins up-to-date and work with a trusted provider. This is a very good script for creating a simple website in all the solutions available on the internet and is a very good choice for a beginner's.
