WordPress, the popular content management system, powers millions of websites worldwide. To get your website up and running with WordPress, you’ll need to install it on your web hosting server. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of installing WordPress using FileZilla, a popular FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client that allows you to upload files to your web server. Let’s get started!
Prerequisites:
- A domain name and web hosting account with FTP access.
- Download and install FileZilla from https://filezilla-project.org/ if you haven’t already.
- Download the latest version of WordPress from https://wordpress.org/download/ to your local computer.
Step 1: Connect to Your Web Hosting Server
Launch FileZilla and enter your FTP credentials (host, username, password, and port) to connect to your web hosting server. You should have received these credentials from your web hosting provider when you signed up for an account.
Step 2: Navigate to the Root Directory
Once connected, you will see two main sections in FileZilla: the Local Site (your computer’s files) on the left and the Remote Site (your web server’s files) on the right. Navigate to the root directory on the Remote Site, which is usually named “public_html” or “www.”
Step 3: Upload WordPress Files
Locate the downloaded WordPress ZIP file on your local computer and extract its contents. You should see a folder named “wordpress” containing all the necessary files. Select all the files within this folder and drag them into the root directory of your web server on the Remote Site panel in FileZilla. This process may take a few minutes, depending on your internet speed.
Step 4: Create a MySQL Database
To store data for your WordPress website, you’ll need to create a MySQL database. Most web hosting providers offer a control panel (such as cPanel) where you can easily create a new database. If you’re unsure how to do this, refer to your hosting provider’s documentation or contact their support team.
Step 5: Configure wp-config.php
In your web server’s root directory, you should now see the uploaded WordPress files, including the “wp-config-sample.php” file. Right-click on this file, select “Rename,” and change the name to “wp-config.php.”
Next, open the “wp-config.php” file in a text editor (e.g., Notepad++) and enter the database details you received during the database creation process. Replace the following placeholders with your actual information:
- ‘database_name_here’ with your database name
- ‘username_here’ with your database username
- ‘password_here’ with your database password
- ‘localhost’ with your database host (this is usually “localhost” but may vary depending on your hosting provider)
Save the changes and upload the modified “wp-config.php” file back to the root directory of your web server.
Step 6: Install WordPress
Open your web browser and enter your domain name in the address bar. You should see the WordPress installation screen. Select your preferred language and click “Continue.”
On the next screen, enter your website title, username, password, and email address. Click “Install WordPress,” and the installation process will begin.
Step 7: Complete Installation and Log In
Once the installation is complete, you will see a success message. Click “Log In” to access your WordPress dashboard.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed WordPress via FileZilla. You can now start customizing your website, adding themes, plugins, and creating content to build your online presence.
Installing WordPress using FileZilla is a straightforward process that empowers you to take full control of your website. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ve set the foundation for creating a powerful and dynamic WordPress site. Harness the flexibility and versatility of WordPress to build your online brand and achieve your digital goals.
Happy website building!