Do you know that the plugin repository has nearly 55,000 WordPress plugins?
Where to start? How can you tell if the plugin truly works or if it’s just going to blow up? Well, you can’t go wrong when we are here to guide you through the WordPress plugins every site should have.
We understand that with so many plugins to choose from, it can be extremely overwhelming to decide on the right ones. Plugins are an important component; the bits of software allow you to expand the functionality of your website.
You are here for some straight answers, right? We have compiled a list of wordpress plugins that aren’t just a bloat, but are actually useful for your website. Let’s get started.
What are WordPress Plugins?
WordPress plugins are used for a smoother integration between your website and a favored tool. They add a completely new function to your website. They extend the functionality of your website, and you can also change visual elements, add extra information or images to your website.
Basically, plugins bridge the gap between form and function, hence with wordpress plugins it is easier to specify features to applications and software without even playing with the source code.
If you are ready to launch a new website, or trying to update the current one, keep on reading. Consider this article as a baseline to get you started.
1. Wordfence:
Wordfence is our absolute favourite. It acts as a protective shell against external threats. This plugin locks down the areas of the website that are most commonly affected by bugs. Moreover, it also has malware to check for intrusions.
Simply put, it blocks malicious files from being executed in the website folder where they commonly hide. It also sends alerts when the theme needs updating and provides and forces the user to create strong passwords. Wordfence also allows for instituting two-factor authentication, which is now available in the free version. One of the main features of Wordfence is the firewall. It has a built-in firewall that automatically detects malicious activities and immediately blocks them. There are over 5 million users of Wordfence; now do your math.
2. MonsterInsights:
Consider MonsterInsights as one of the best Google Analytics plugins for your website. Trust us on this, as this plugin allows you to properly connect your website with analytics—meaning that you can easily access how people find and use your website. You can even use this plugin to collect the statistics that matter and get the right information from your website’s dashboard.
This plugin allows you to track the most popular website pages and posts and also track conversion. As you have the opportunity to track everything, you can increase your traffic, subscribers, and ultimately, revenue. It has free and premium versions, and there are nearly 3 million users of Monsterinsights.
3. Yoast SEO:
Who does not know about Yoast SEO? It is indeed one of the most popular SEO plugins in the world. With over 5 million installations worldwide, it is one of web design services‘ most commonly used plugins.
It is also a good choice for beginners who have yet to learn about SEO(Search Engine Optimization) , but it is also useful for advanced users. This plugin allows for a seamless integration into the website’s workflow. It can help you improve your SEO and analyze your content’s readability. The more accessible your copy is, the greater your chance of capturing the users’ attention. This plugin contributes to organic traffic, and we all know it can make or break the website.
4. Woocommerce:
Used by over 5 million websites, Woocommerce comes with all the right features to create an online store. I’m not exaggerating; on the record, this plugin has established itself as the most dominant e-commerce plugin for websites.
Also, you may not know this—it was created by the company behind WordPress.com. If you want to expand your website into a proper online store, Woocommerce can undoubtedly be a perfect addition.
5. Elementor:
If you are either making a new launch or updating one, Elementor is one of the coolest plugins on our list. With over 5 million active installations, Elementor is a visual page builder that allows you to craft original designs for your pages.
Oh wait, you do not have to be a web developer freak or something to learn about Elementor. It is a creative plugin that allows you to create effects such as background overlays, hover effects, animations, and much more. It is an extremely useful and creative plugin, especially for those who want to create beautiful landing pages. You can select between 300+ built-in templates with a simple drag-and-drop option.
6. WPForms:
WPForms allows you to build creative forms, such as contact forms or any other kind of form that you generate on a website. This plugin is a perfect blend of useful and engaging features. It is easy to use and also mobile-friendly.
You do not have to spend a lot of time, and without working on any JavaScript or other code, you can easily create a captivating form. With this plugin, you can generate better forms, which ultimately leads to better conversion and more survey results.
7. UpdraftPlus:
We all know about website hacking and how common it is. Approximately 13,000 websites are hacked daily. What’s the harm in using a plugin that can protect your website and provide you with a backup?
Updraftplus is a powerful plugin that integrates with multiple cloud storage options. It safeguards your backups and even automates them with a recurring schedule. You can even restore your website to its initial or previously used state, as it allows you to store backups locally or on the cloud.
8. LiveChat:
Last but not least, chatbots are indeed blessings, and we consider LiveChat to be one of them. It lets you easily add live content to your online store and answer users’ queries. It also helps in converting users into customers before they leave your website. This plugin seamlessly works with Google Analytics and all top email marketing and CRM software. One of the best parts is that it offers offline messages, predefined messages, and chat routing. You can even use this plugin to create AI chatbots and offer video chats to customers.
How to Find the Best WordPress Plugin for Your Needs?
Well, if you are clueless, below are some general rules for finding the best plugins for your needs.
1. Understand the platform:
Plugins are developed for smoother integrations and specific Content Management Systems. If you are choosing between plugins, make sure that your selected plugin is compatible with your website.
It is simple: if you are running your website on Shopify, a WordPress plugin will not work. Look for Shopify plugins.
2. What’s the Goal?
The purpose is important in any case. What do you want to achieve with your plugin?
Outline a specific issue that you are facing, and then search for a plugin.
3. Research:
Well, this goes with everything.
After you identify the issues, conduct research to find the best solution. Scroll above to get an idea of the 8 must-have WordPress plugins for your website.
Recap:
With over 55000+ WordPress plugins available, it can be extremely overwhelming to choose between the available options. When researching the right plugins, you can get help from web development services or web developers to get a better idea. However, we suggest you specify your goal and conduct thorough research before purchasing a plugin.
