How to install a plugin in WordPress

Install a plugin from the WordPress directory or as a .zip upload, safely.

3 min read beginnerUpdated Mar 30, 2025
BI
Reviewed by the editorial team · Mar 30, 2025

Step by step

  1. 01

    Go to Plugins → Add New

    Search for the plugin by name.

  2. 02

    Install and Activate

    Click Install Now, then Activate.

  3. 03

    Upload a .zip

    For premium plugins, click Upload Plugin → choose the .zip → Install Now → Activate.

  4. 04

    Back up before installing

    Especially for plugins that touch the database (SEO, caching, security).

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