WordPress.com vs WordPress.org

Many beginners get confused between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. They use the same software, but they are not the same service.

WordPress.org (self-hosted)

WordPress.org is the website where you download the free WordPress software. You install it on your own hosting (or on your computer), so you have full control. You can install any theme or plugin, edit any file and move your site anywhere.

In this case you are responsible for hosting, updates, backups and security.

WordPress.com (hosted)

WordPress.com is a company (Automattic) which runs WordPress sites for you. You create an account, choose a plan, and the hosting, updates and security are handled for you. The free plan is limited, and installing your own plugins and themes needs a paid plan.

Main differences

PointWordPress.org (self-hosted)WordPress.com (hosted)
SoftwareFree to downloadYou use it as a service
HostingYou buy it from any hostDone by WordPress.com
Themes and pluginsInstall any of themLimited by your plan
Code accessFull access to all filesLimited on lower plans
Updates and backupsYour work (or your host)Handled for you
CostHosting and domain, plus paid themes or plugins if you use themFree plan and monthly paid plans
Best forDevelopers, businesses, custom sitesQuick personal blogs and simple sites

Which one should you choose?

  • Choose WordPress.org if you want full control, custom themes or plugins, an online shop, or if you are learning WordPress development. This tutorial uses it.
  • Choose WordPress.com if you only want to start a simple blog fast and do not want to manage a server.
Note: Everything you learn about posts, pages, the block editor and the dashboard is almost the same on both. Only the plugin and theme parts are different. Next: WordPress Installation.

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