Like everything technology-related, the world of WordPress does have its fair share of jargon, which can quickly get confusing if you’re not sure what the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com is, or what the WordPress Codex is and where you might find it. That’s why we’ve created this introductory guide to all things WordPress, which should help you learn the basics:
WordPress.org: The place you can download the WordPress CMS software for your self-hosted site. This is also where the plugin repository is located and you also find the WordPress Codex, documentation and support forum here.
WordPress.com: Where you can create a fully hosted blog. You might not have as much control over the design of your site but it’s a great option for those who want to focus on their content, rather than the development of their website.
WordCamps: Worldwide conferences arranged by local communities that are dedicated to all things WordPress. Since 2006 WordCamps have branched out across the globe and hundreds have taken place in tens of different countries.
Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little: These are the big guys: the founders of WordPress.
Automattic (that’s double ‘t’!): A web development organisation. Founded in 2005 by Matt Mullenweg.
The WordPress Foundation: An organisation (founded by Matt Mullenweg) which furthers the mission of the WordPress open source project, through GPL software.
The WordPress Codex: An online encyclopaedia for all things WordPress. The perfect place to find the answer to any burning WordPress questions you have.
Free themes: A free template that determines the design of a WordPress-powered site. There are thousands of free themes available but they may lack some technicality and originality.
Premium themes: A paid for template that determines the design of a WordPress-powered site. Premium themes often include ongoing support from the developers, in case you run into any issues.
Custom themes: A bespoke and original WordPress theme designed and developed specifically for your website.
Free plugins: A free piece of software that adds a specific feature to a website.
Premium plugins: A paid for piece of software that adds a specific feature to a website. Premium plugins often include ongoing support from the developers.
The Plugin Repository: A directory of WordPress plugins that developers can use to share their work and where you can download free WordPress plugins.
GPL (General Public License): The license that applies to WordPress software, which requires derivatives of WordPress code to inherit the GPL license.
A note on the spelling of WordPress: It’s a capital P. Always.
