How to Install WordPress Step by Step: Beginner’s Complete Guide

Installing WordPress is the first and most important step toward building a website, blog, or online business.
The platform is designed to be user-friendly, and you don’t need advanced technical skills to get started.

This step-by-step guide explains all common WordPress installation methods in clear, human language so you can
choose the option that best suits your needs.

What You Need Before Installing WordPress

Before starting the installation, make sure you have the following essentials:

A domain name (your website address)
A web hosting account
Access to your hosting control panel
Basic understanding of files and folders (helpful but not required)

Most hosting providers support WordPress and offer tools that make installation quick and easy.

Method 1: Install WordPress Using One-Click Installer (Recommended)

This is the simplest and most popular method, especially for beginners.

Step 1: Log in to Your Hosting Control Panel

Step 2: Find the WordPress Installer

Look for options such as WordPress Installer, Softaculous, or Website Installer.

Step 3: Start the Installation

Click on the WordPress installer and select the domain where you want WordPress installed.

Step 4: Configure Basic Settings

Enter the following details:

Website name and description
Admin username and password
Admin email address

Step 5: Complete the Installation

Click install and wait a few seconds. Once finished, you’ll receive a login URL to access your WordPress dashboard.

Method 2: Manual WordPress Installation (Advanced Users)

Manual installation gives you more control and is useful if your host doesn’t offer a one-click installer.

Step 1: Download WordPress

Download the latest WordPress files from the official WordPress website.

Step 2: Upload Files to Your Server

Use an FTP client or your hosting file manager to upload the WordPress files to your website’s root directory.

Step 3: Create a Database

Create a new MySQL database and user from your hosting control panel and save the credentials.

Step 4: Configure the wp-config File

Enter your database name, username, and password in the WordPress configuration file.

Step 5: Run the Installation Script

Visit your website URL in a browser and follow the on-screen installation instructions.

Method 3: Install WordPress on Localhost

Installing WordPress on localhost is ideal for learning, testing, or development without affecting a live website.

Step 1: Install a Local Server Environment

Install software that creates a local server environment on your computer.

Step 2: Create a Local Database

Create a database using the local server’s database management tool.

Step 3: Install WordPress Locally

Place the WordPress files in the local server directory and run the installation through your browser.

Completing the WordPress Setup

After installation, log in to the WordPress admin dashboard and complete these essential steps:

Set your site title and tagline
Configure timezone and language
Update permalink structure for SEO-friendly URLs
Remove default posts and pages if not needed

Choosing a Theme After Installation

Select a theme that aligns with your website goals and offers responsiveness, speed, and customization options.

Installing Essential Plugins

Start with essential plugins such as:

Security plugins
SEO plugins
Backup solutions
Performance optimization tools

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Using weak admin passwords
Skipping backups
Installing too many plugins initially
Ignoring updates after installation

Final Thoughts

Installing WordPress step by step is a straightforward process when you understand the available methods.
With the right setup, you build a strong foundation for creating, managing, and growing your website confidently.

How to Install WordPress Step by Step