Entendiendo las diferencias entre WordPress.com y WordPress.org
When it comes to WordPress, it is common to find confusion between WordPress.com and WordPress.org. Although both platforms are creations of the same founder, Matt Mullenweg, their functions and applications are significantly different. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two WordPress platforms, to help you decide which one is most suitable for your website.
Tabla de contenidos
What is WordPress.org?
WordPress.org, often known as “self-hosted WordPress,” is an open-source software that you can download and install on your own server. Unlike WordPress.com, you need a hosting provider to store your website. Here you have the freedom to completely customize your site, install any plugin you want, and sell ads without any restrictions.
What is WordPress.com?
On the other hand, WordPress.com is a hosting service for blogs and websites. Instead of having to find a hosting provider and do all the technical work yourself, WordPress.com takes care of all this. The plans on WordPress.com range from free to premium, and depending on the plan you choose, you will be allowed to make certain customizations and add a custom domain.
Comparison of WordPress.com and WordPress.org
Flexibility and customization
One of the main differences between WordPress .com and .org is flexibility and customization. WordPress.org allows greater customization as you can install any theme or plugin. On the other hand, WordPress.com limits the plugins and themes you can use, unless you have a business plan or higher.
Cost
Although WordPress.org is free to download and install, you will need to pay for server hosting, premium plugins, and themes. On the other hand, WordPress.com offers a free plan with limited options, but to unlock more features you will need to upgrade to a paid plan.
Technical support
WordPress.com offers technical support with all its plans, while on WordPress.org you are more on your own, although you can always seek help in the community forums.
Monetization
WordPress.org allows you total freedom to monetize your website however you want. However, WordPress.com has certain restrictions unless you have a business plan or higher.
Comparison Table
| WordPress.com | WordPress.org | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free with limited options, paid plans allow more customization | Free, but with costs associated with hosting, themes and plugins |
| Hosting | Included | Requires a hosting provider |
| Plugins | Limited unless you have a business plan or higher | Allows any plugin |
| Customization | Limited, unless upgraded to a paid plan | Complete flexibility to customize |
| Monetization | Restricted unless you have a business plan or higher | Total freedom to monetize as you wish |
| Technical support | Included with all plans | Self-help through community forums |
| Suitable for | Beginners or those who prefer an easy-to-use platform without having to worry about site maintenance | More technical users who want to have full control over their site, or businesses and professionals who need more advanced features |
| Statistics | Included in all plans | Depends on the plugin installed |
| Web network | Allows creating a network of connected blogs | Possible with the Multisite function |
| Themes | Limited unless a premium plan is purchased | Allows any theme, whether free or premium |
| SEO Optimization | Limited in free plans, advanced in higher plans |
Some Myths about WordPress.com and WordPress.org
Myth 1: Plugins are only available on WordPress.org. It’s true that WordPress.org allows you to install any plugin you want. However, WordPress.com also offers plugins, but the quantity available varies depending on the plan you choose.
Myth 2: WordPress.com is always the more expensive option. Actually, WordPress.com has a free usage option, and its paid plans can be cheaper than the combination of hosting and maintenance costs of a WordPress.org site.
Myth 3: WordPress.org is only for technology experts. While WordPress.org offers more customization and therefore may be more complicated, there are many online resources to help you learn how to use it, even if you are a tech beginner.
Myth 4: You can’t have a custom domain with WordPress.com. WordPress.com allows you to have a custom domain, but this feature is not available in their free plan.
Myth 5: WordPress.org doesn’t offer customer support. While WordPress.org does not have a dedicated customer support like WordPress.com, there is a huge community of WordPress users who are often willing to help. You can also get technical support from your hosting provider.
Myth 6: Migrating your site from WordPress.com to WordPress.org is too complicated and can lead to loss of your content. The reality is that migrating from WordPress.com to WordPress.org may require some technical steps, but if done correctly, it should not result in content loss. There are detailed guides and plugins designed to facilitate this transition. Some hosting providers even offer migration services to help you move your site smoothly.
Summary: WordPress.com or WordPress.org?
The choice between WordPress.com and WordPress.org largely depends on your individual needs. If you’re a beginner and don’t mind having limited features, WordPress.com may be the easier option. However, if you want full control over your website and don’t mind the learning curve, WordPress.org is the obvious choice.
If you choose to use WordPress.org and wonder about what plugins you might need, we recommend you check out “The 5 best SEO plugins for WordPress” on our blog, where you can find useful recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I migrate from WordPress.com to WordPress.org?
Yes, it is possible to migrate from WordPress.com to WordPress.org. However, the process can be a bit technical and you might need the help of a developer or a migration service.
Can I use my own domain with WordPress.com?
Yes, if you have a paid plan on WordPress.com, you can use your own custom domain.
Are WordPress.com and WordPress.org safe?
WordPress.com and WordPress.org are safe if you follow the best security practices, such as keeping your plugins and themes updated, and using strong passwords.
Can I monetize my blog on WordPress.com?
To monetize your blog on WordPress.com, you will need a business plan or higher. Otherwise, monetization options are limited.
How many types of WordPress are there?
There are mainly two types of WordPress: WordPress.com and WordPress.org.
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