Normally you should install WordPress plugins through the plugin directory. This ensures you are getting the official build of the plugin. However, sometimes the developer may give you a ZIP file to upload instead.
Keep in mind
- The file format must be ZIP. WordPress does not support other archival formats.
- If you are replacing an existing plugin with a new version, deactivate and delete the old one first to avoid conflicts (unless otherwise stated by the developer).
- Some hosting companies limit the maximum file upload size. If you cannot increase the maximum size, try uploading over SFTP.
- If you’re running a WordPress Multisite network, you’ll need to Network Activate the plugin if you want it available across all sites. Make sure the plugin is compatible with Multisite.
⚠️Do not upload unknown plugins
There are known cases of plugins stealing data or creating backdoors. Make sure you trust the source of the plugin. By uploading, you are bypassing any safety checks performed by the official directory.
⚠️ Make a backup now
You should always make a backup before installing a new plugin, especially when bypassing the official directory. By backing up now, you can easily restore from the backup if the plugin damages any data.
Instructions
- Sign into WordPress with your admin account
- From the side menu, click Plugins
- If you are updating an existing plugin, deactivate and remove it first
To avoid conflicts, be sure to deactivate and remove the existing version of the plugin before uploading the new version (unless stated otherwise by the developer).
- Click the Add Plugin button near the top of the plugins page
- Click the Upload Plugin button near the top
- Click Choose File in the panel
- Browse to the plugin ZIP file and select
- Click Install Now
- Click Activate Plugin
- If your site crashes, delete the plugin folder or restore from backup
If the site crashes and you are unable to remove the plugin through the dashboard, you can delete its plugin folder at /wp-content/plugins/<plugin-slug> where <plugin-slug> is the slug name of the plugin.
Leave a Reply