WordPressorg vs WordPresscom: Which is Right for You?

WordPressorg vs WordPresscom Powering 37% of all websites on the internet, WordPress continues to be one of the leading CMS sites to exist.

For those that need a refresher, WordPress is a free open-source content management system that features a plugin architecture and and template system.

Technically, WordPress allows you to host and build websites that are customizable to fit your business, blog, portfolio, or online store. Now that you’ve got a recap, we can delve further into WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com. Better yet, WordPress.com vs. a self-Hosted WordPress site

How to Install WordPress Site?

Anyone with basic computer skills can complete the installation of WordPress because it is a fairly simple process. The first step is to choose a web host that supports WordPress, such as GuruDesk.

Once you’ve signed up for a hosting plan, you can then install WordPress using your hosting providers’ one-click installation feature or by manually installing the software.

The WordPress software is free to download and use, and there are a variety of tutorials and support resources available online to help guide you through the installation process.

WordPress Software

WordPress software is an open-source content management system that is used to build and manage websites. The software is free to download and use and is built on PHP and MySQL.

WordPress provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for non-technical users to create and manage their own websites.

Google Analytics – WordPressorg vs WordPresscom

Google Analytics is a web analytics service provided by Google that allows website owners to track and analyze website traffic and user behavior.

The service provides detailed reports on website traffic, including information on the number of visitors, where they come from, how they interact with the site, and more.

By tracking this information, website owners can gain valuable insights into their audience and optimize their site to better meet their needs.

Google Analytics is easy to install and use, it is also free to use, making it a valuable tool for businesses and individuals alike.

WordPressorg vs WordPresscom

We know it could be a little confusing to differentiate the two since they are so similar, but fear not, your trustee sidekicks are always here to save the day!

Let’s break it down: WordPress.com is a hassle-free solution.

It’s a service that assists you in building a website by using the WordPress software that comes pre-installed on managed hosting; this gives you a hassle-free maintenance experience. 

WordPress.org requires you to download the software itself, then look for a third-party hosting service to install WordPress and, therefore, build and maintain your website.

Considered a resource and community hub, WordPress.org offers a free download of the open source WordPress software, involvement and contribution to the development of WordPress, and meeting other WordPress users and participating in the WP community.

It’s simple so far, right?

Let’s go into the second layer of things and help you understand the deeper side of things!

What is a Host? WordPressorg vs WordPresscom

A web host is a company with access to servers that are connected to the internet.

These Hosting companies rent out space on the servers in order to present individuals businesses online.

Migrating from WordPresscom to a Different Host

Think of this as hiring someone to move your whole house. This entails moving from one server computer to another. This applies to a website as well.

Regardless of the software or website used, migrating a website from one host to another ranges from a simple click to hours of added work.

You need to keep in mind that some types of websites don’t allow for that functionality.

When thinking about migrating, there is cause for worry if you lose some information along the way. When migrating from Host A to Host B, you will more likely than not have two versions of the exact same site.

This allows you the opportunity to compare both versions, before choosing to get rid of the first one, Host A.

Oftentimes, the biggest mistake individuals make when migrating is downloading a backup of the existing site, canceling things with Host A, and then setting up their site with Host B, expecting nothing short of identical and perfect sites.

Difference between WordPresscom and Self-Hosted WordPress

When delving into subscriptions and the costs of hosting accounts, that’s where both have a huge dent in their differences.

Unless your site is highly customized with complex coding and developer-level features, both WordPress.com and Self-Hosted sites are the same when it comes to the functional ability of the software.

WordPress.com costs about 300 Dollars per year, as opposed to Self-hosting, which costs approximately 46 Dollars (prices may differ).

Full Control of your Website 

Contrary to what the myth says, on WordPress.com, you don’t have full control of your website, meaning you never own 100% of your site; you always own your content.

Let’s say you choose a theme which is then discontinued. Individuals have the capabilities of using it, receive security updates and maintain structure throughout. 

If you have an eligible paid plan, you have the same SFTP access that you do a free plan you have on a Self-Hosted WordPress site.

What is SFTP you might ask?

Secure File Transfer Protocol: SFTP is a network protocol providing file access, transfer and management over any reliable data stream. Through the use of algorithms, it secures the data as it travels between different systems. 

WordPresscom and eCommerce Features 

Ecommerce options have always been available on WordPress.com.

Depending on your WordPress.com plans, as well as your business needs, WordPress.com offers a variety of payment methods such as PayPal options across all plans.

Though it might not be as abundant, individuals still have the ability to sell products online. 

By choosing an eligible plan on WordPress.com, certain plugins can be installed including WooCommerce, which offers multiple payment gateway options. 

WordPressorg Cons

It’s important to consider the cons of WordPress.org, in order to best know what you’re investing into because it is an investment.

What You Need to Ensure – WordPressorg vs WordPresscom

You should ensure that your hosting provider offers secure hosting setup and account features. To improve website security, consider using advanced SEO tools, Google Analytics integration, and installing reliable WordPress plugins.

If you’re running an eCommerce site, opt for the business or eCommerce plan that offers more comprehensive security features.

Additionally, it’s recommended to use a self-hosted site with a custom domain rather than relying on the free version or a used free domain name.

Remember to carefully vet any free themes or plugins before installation to avoid security risks.

WordPressorg vs WordPresscom

While the decision remains in your hands, us at GuruDesk place your benefit on a silver platter and guarantee success. WordPress.com is a hosted blogging service that provides complete free and personal plan options, making it a great option for beginners.

However, if you’re looking for complete control and the ability to also install plugins, third-party plugins and custom themes, WordPress.org may be a better fit.

WordPress.org uses open source software and requires web server and hosting services, which can add additional costs.

But it also provides the flexibility to use your own hosting provider and create a professional site or eCommerce platform with a cleanly installed WordPress core software.

Both options offer free plugins and SEO plugin options, as well as premium plans with more features for those who need them.

Ultimately, it’s important to choose the hosting plan and own custom domain that best suits your needs and budget.