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| WordPress.com and WordPress.org |
A lot of people who are starting a WordPress blog get stuck on the first step – choosing between the “org” and the “com” version. Googling won’t do much good as most articles are just rants about which version is better (neither is better because they serve different purposes). And while they may appear the same at first glance, WordPress.org and WordPress.com are actually completely different.
Before getting your hands dirty on the first post you are about to write, you will need to decide which way to go. In this article, we’re going to show you some of the most significant differences between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. We obviously feel that WordPress is the best blogging platform but if you have doubts have a look at other blogging platforms.
Before getting your hands dirty on the first post you are about to write, you will need to decide which way to go. In this article, we’re going to show you some of the most significant differences between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. We obviously feel that WordPress is the best blogging platform but if you have doubts have a look at other blogging platforms.
WordPress.com and WordPress.org are two distinct platforms with different features and purposes. Here's a comparison between the two:
Comparison:
| WordPress.org | WordPress.com | |
| Themes & Plugins | Install anything you like | Limited choices |
| Technical knowledge | Required | None required |
| Cost | Hosting and domain | Free |
| Monetization | Full freedom | Limited |
| Professional support | No | Yes |
| Free promotion | No | Yes |
1- WordPress.com:
1. Hosting: WordPress.com provides hosting services for your website. You don't need to worry about managing the technical aspects of hosting, such as server setup, maintenance, or security.
2. Ease of Use: It offers a user-friendly interface, making it easier for beginners to set up and manage a website without any technical expertise.
3. Domain Name: A free subdomain (e.g., yoursite.wordpress.com) is provided by default. You can also purchase a custom domain name or use an existing one.
4. Themes and Plugins: WordPress.com offers a limited selection of themes and plugins that you can use to customize your website. The ability to install third-party themes or plugins is not available on the free plan.
5. Monetization: On the free plan, you cannot run your own advertisements. However, if you upgrade to a premium plan, you can apply for the WordAds program or use other monetization methods.
6. Maintenance and Updates: WordPress.com handles core updates and security patches automatically, ensuring your site is up to date.
Monetization and advertisements:
Since the basic account is free, prepare yourself for WordPress.com ads on the blog. If you want to work with various affiliate programs or use different ads to make some money, your choices are very limited.
Limitations of the free service:
WordPress.com has limited hosting options (1GB included in the free version) that you can use for uploading files. You should know that you won’t be able to use FTP access to get those files on/from the server.
Advantages:
- Free for basic service
- Professionally managed
- Extremely beginner-friendly
Disadvantages:
- Can’t use custom themes or plugins
- You don’t have control over the blog
- Limited monetization options
2- WordPress.org:
1. Self-Hosted: With WordPress.org, you need to find your own hosting provider and set up the WordPress software on your own server. This gives you more control and flexibility over your website.
2. Customization: You have complete control over your website's design and functionality. You can install any theme or plugin, including third-party options, allowing for extensive customization.
3. Domain Name: You need to purchase your own domain name and configure it to point to your hosting provider.
4. Monetization: There are no restrictions on monetization methods. You can run your own ads, use affiliate marketing, or sell products directly from your website.
5. Maintenance and Updates: You are responsible for maintaining your website, including applying updates to the WordPress core, themes, and plugins. However, you have the freedom to choose when and how to update.
Make money with your blog:
Since you own the site, you can use any affiliate or advertising programs that you like. There are no rules besides legal ones, obviously. Ads on your site will be only the ones you choose to display. WordPress is open source, so it won’t push ads through your site.Advantages:
- Total control of your blog
- Use any theme or plugin
- Monetize the blog any way you want
Disadvantages:
- You don’t have technical support
- Hosting and domain cost money
- You should do regular maintenance