WordPress Introduction

What is WordPress?

WordPress is the primary content management system (CMS) for the Division of Student Affairs and its websites. It’s open-source software that is not only the most used CMS at Colorado State University but is also the most commonly used CMS across the Internet as a whole. It allows for the rapid creation of new sites and is extremely versatile thanks to its thousands of themes and plugins.

What are WordPress Themes?

WordPress themes provide a quick way to get a site setup and running. Themes not only provide built-in styling but can also provide additional functionality, too.

Creators of themes can range from full-fledged organizations to individual developers. With the vast amount of themes available, you will find some that are free and some that are paid.

What are WordPress Plugins?

WordPress plugins are one of the most powerful features of WordPress. Developers can create add-ons (plugins) that add additional functionality to the WordPress core. Want to have an easier, visual way to design a page? Want to have a calendar of events? Want to have a contact form? Those features, and thousands more, are available thanks to plugins that built on top of the WordPress core.

Just like themes, plugins can be developed by companies all the way to individual developers. Likewise, you will find that there are free plugins as well as paid plugins.

What About Security?

WordPress being the most popular CMS means it is well maintained but it also makes it one of the biggest targets for attackers. Thankfully, the core of WordPress is extremely secure. Most vulnerabilities come from themes and plugins. This is why it’s best practice to be selective when it comes to which themes and plugins you install.

WordPress Sites Within Student Affairs

Coming soon.

Learn More About WordPress