Here’s the most confusing thing about WordPress, and it has nothing to do with code: there are two places called “WordPress,” and they are not the same. Let’s clear this up once and for all so you can choose with confidence.
WordPress.org: the software
WordPress.org is the home of the free, open-source software. You download it (or your host installs it for you) and run it on your own hosting account. This is often called self-hosted WordPress.
- Full control: install any theme or plugin, edit any file, and connect any service.
- You choose the host: pick a hosting company that fits your budget and needs.
- You’re responsible: updates, backups and security are your job (though many hosts help).
WordPress.com: a hosted service
WordPress.com is a commercial service run by Automattic, a company founded by WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg. It runs the same core software for you, on its servers. You sign up, pick a plan and start writing.
- Less setup: hosting, security and updates are handled for you.
- Plan-based features: the free and lower tiers limit what you can install; higher plans unlock plugins and custom themes.
- Convenience over control: great if you want to write and never think about servers.
Plan names, features and prices change from time to time, so always check the current details on WordPress.com before deciding.
So which should you pick?
Ask yourself one question: How much control do I want?
- Want to run ads, sell affiliate products, install any plugin or experiment freely? Self-hosted WordPress.org is the flexible choice.
- Want a personal blog with minimal maintenance? WordPress.com can be a perfectly good fit.
This course focuses on self-hosted WordPress.org, because it teaches you the whole system. Most lessons still apply on WordPress.com plans that allow plugins and themes.
Professor’s tip: When you read tutorials online, check which version they mean. A “click Plugins, then Add New” instruction may look different, or be unavailable, on some WordPress.com plans.
Your assignment
- List three features your site absolutely needs (for example, a newsletter signup or an online store).
- Decide: self-hosted or hosted? Write down one reason for your choice.
