How to install, update or remove a WordPress plugin

Plugins add features to WordPress, such as contact forms, SEO tools or online stores. Only install plugins from trusted sources and keep them up to date.

Install a plugin from WordPress.org

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard at https://yourdomain.com/wp-admin. See how to log in to WordPress.
2. Go to Plugins › Add New Plugin.
3. Search for the plugin by name or feature.
4. Click Install Now, then Activate.

Upload a plugin you bought

1. Download the plugin’s .zip file. Don’t unzip it.
2. Go to Plugins › Add New Plugin and click Upload Plugin.
3. Click Choose File, pick the .zip file and click Install Now.
4. Click Activate Plugin.

To reinstall or manually update a plugin you already have, upload the new .zip the same way. WordPress will offer Replace current with uploaded.

Update plugins

Go to Plugins › Installed Plugins. Plugins with an update show an update now link. You can also click Enable auto-updates next to a plugin to keep it updated automatically.

Deactivate and delete a plugin

1. Go to Plugins › Installed Plugins.
2. Click Deactivate under the plugin’s name.
3. Click Delete and confirm.

If your website stops working after installing or updating a plugin, deactivate that plugin first. Locked out of the dashboard? Call us on (800) 245-6301 and we’ll help.