WordPress – Choosing Which to Use

WordPress is an easy-to-use blogging software, Do Enjoy Life, and has quickly become one of the most widely used blogging formats. You can choose whether to set up your blog through WordPress.com or WordPress.org. Below is a guide to selecting the right WordPress software for your small business needs.

WordPress.com pros

WordPress.com offers a fast and easy way to set up your blog. It is a free multi-user source to immediately sign up and publish your blog. You are given a selected number of themes from which to choose.

WordPress.com is backed up and managed by WordPress; thus, you don’t have to worry about backing up your posts. Your blog is hosted on hundreds of servers, so you never have to worry about it going down. You don’t need to worry about spam, setup, upgrades, or security because it is all taken care of for you.

WordPress.com cons

You are not able to upload your themes and plug-ins. In addition, WordPress.com will not allow you to post Google AdSense ads or affiliate links. However, WordPress may occasionally show Google text ads on your site.

WordPress.com does offer a VIP program that allows you to run custom themes, custom PHP code, and plug-ins. This is being provided to blogs with high traffic and high profile.

WordPress.org pros

WordPress.org allows you to install any of the plug-ins and themes available. You have complete control over your site’s appearance and will not be viewed as another run-of-the-mill site. Also, WordPress plug-ins expand the functionality of your site.

WordPress.org cons

It would help to have a hosting provider to use MySQL databases and FTP access. Typically, a hosting provider will cost you less than $7 a month. You can find these services at GoDaddy.com or Bluehost.com.

WordPress.org requires a significant amount of technical knowledge to set up and run. You are also responsible for backing up your content, handling spam issues, and issues with down sites due to high traffic. Essentially, it places full responsibility on you as the blogger.

Choosing between the two

Your best bet is to start at WordPress.com to learn the Dashboard and how WordPress works. The start-up is free, and you can then decide if you want to blog or host your website. Once you understand WordPress, you can export your content to your self-hosted WordPress site.

If you want your blog to appear more professional, WordPress.com offers an upgrade for a low cost that allows you to host a domain through them. So, instead of your website appearing as abc.WordPress.com, it will appear as abc.com.

Though WordPress.org has limitations on support, it offers a great forum filled with helpful information to help you keep your site running smoothly. You also have options for plug-ins that allow emailing newsletters and other information to your client base.