When I first looked into hosting WordPress on Google Cloud, I thought, “This could be the upgrade I’ve been waiting for.”

The idea of running my site on the same infrastructure powering Google Search and YouTube? That was exciting. But it also raised a lot of questions.

There’s no question that Google Cloud offers serious speed and reliability. But I quickly realized that it’s not built with beginners in mind. Between managing virtual machines, setting up your server, and configuring DNS, it’s easy to get stuck.

The good news is that you don’t have to do it the hard way. Whether you want a simple managed solution or you’d rather roll up your sleeves and do it all yourself, I’ll show you both options.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to host WordPress on Google Cloud and which path I recommend based on real-world experience.

Why Host WordPress on Google Cloud?

Google Cloud is known for speed, stability, and high-powered infrastructure. It powers everything from YouTube to Gmail, and it’s built to handle huge amounts of traffic without any issues.

That’s why a lot of website owners, including myself at one point, start thinking: “If I host my WordPress site on Google Cloud, won’t I get the same performance?”

And in theory, yes — you can. But there’s a big difference between having access to Google Cloud and actually knowing how to use it well for WordPress. It’s like buying a race car without knowing how to drive it.

That’s where most people get stuck. The platform itself is amazing, but it’s built for engineers and DevOps teams, not regular WordPress users trying to publish content or grow an audience.

So if you’ve been wondering whether Google Cloud is the right choice for your WordPress site, you’re not alone.

In the next section, I’ll show you the easiest way to tap into its power, without having to configure anything manually.

After that, I’ll walk you through two hands-on methods if you prefer the DIY route.

You can use the jump links below if you want to skip ahead:

Method 1: Use SiteGround to Host WordPress on Google Cloud

If you want the speed and reliability of Google Cloud without the technical setup, then SiteGround is the option I recommend — and personally use.

We also host WPBeginner on SiteGround. Describing the move, Syed Balkhi, founder of WPBeginner, wrote:

After testing SiteGround across multiple projects and seeing how well their platform handled real-world demands, I knew it was the right move for WPBeginner.

Syed Balkhi

For more details, see the reasons why WPBeginner switched to SiteGround or take a look at my in-depth SiteGround review.

SiteGround runs its entire platform on Google Cloud infrastructure, so you get the same performance without having to manage it all yourself.

You don’t need to worry about setting up servers, installing software, or handling updates. Everything from performance tuning to WordPress security is already taken care of. You just log in, install WordPress, and start building your website.

SiteGround makes it easy for anyone to get started. Their dashboard is clean and beginner-friendly, and you get powerful features out of the box, including automatic caching, free CDN, daily backups, built-in security, and one-click staging environments.

Pros of Using SiteGround

• Built on Google Cloud’s fast and reliable infrastructure
• No technical setup required — perfect for beginners
• Excellent customer support with real WordPress experts
• Includes caching, backups, security, and CDN out of the box
• Flat monthly pricing, with no surprise bills

Cons of Using SiteGround

• Not ideal if you want full server-level control or custom OS-level tweaks
• More advanced developers might prefer a DIY cloud setup for niche use cases

Pricing: Unlike Google Cloud Platform’s pay-as-you-go pricing, SiteGround offers fixed pricing starting from $2.99 per month.

If you just want to build your site and have it run fast, stay secure, and never think about server maintenance, this is the easiest and most reliable way to do it.

How to Host WordPress on Google Cloud Using SiteGround

First, you need to visit SiteGround’s website and choose a WordPress hosting plan.

I recommend choosing the Startup plan if you are just getting started, or the GrowBig plan if you are upgrading from a regular shared hosting service.

Next, you will be asked to choose a domain name. SiteGround offers a free domain name with each hosting plan for the first year.

If you already have a domain name, you can use that as well.

After that, you will be asked to provide personal information to create your account.

Just fill in the information and go to the payment section to complete your signup.

Once you have completed the purchase, you need to log in to your SiteGround account.

From here, simply click WordPress » Install & Manage.

Select WordPress, or if you want to build an online store, then select WordPress + WooCommerce.

Simply follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup wizard.

Congratulations 🎉 Your WordPress website is running on Google Cloud. It is already fully optimized and ready to go.

How to Manually Host WordPress on Google Cloud

There are multiple ways to manually host WordPress on Google Cloud. You can use a ready-to-deploy instance or deploy it manually yourself.

Here is a comparison table to understand the difference between the two approaches:

Method 2: Use Google Cloud Marketplace to Install WordPress (Click to Deploy)

If you’re not comfortable running server commands or want a quicker way to get started, then Google Cloud offers a ‘Click to Deploy’ version of WordPress in their Marketplace.

It sets up a fully functional WordPress site with a few clicks, including your virtual machine, database, and web server stack.

Here are the pros and cons of using the Click to Deploy method.

Pros:

• Faster and easier than manual setup
• No need to SSH or install software manually
• Great for users new to Google Cloud

Cons:

• Less flexibility because you’re using a pre-configured environment
• Still responsible for backups, updates, and security
• Some users report difficulty scaling or customizing Click to Deploy sites later

Overall, if you’re experimenting or building a personal project, this method is a great way to get started.

Step 1. Create a New Google Cloud Project

To begin, log in to your Google Cloud account and create a new project from the dashboard.

Step 2. Turn on billing

After creating your project, you need to enable billing.

From the left-hand menu, click on Billing and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3. Select Click to Deploy WordPress Package

Once billing is active, click the search bar at the top of the dashboard and type in “WordPress.”

From the results, you need to choose the option labeled ‘WordPress – Click to Deploy’ by Google Cloud.

On the next screen, go ahead and click the ‘Get Started’ button.

After that, you may be asked to agree to the terms of service and enable APIs. Simply follow the instructions to move to the next step.

Step 4. Configure Your WordPress Deployment Settings

On the next screen, you’ll see a form with several options for setting up your WordPress instance.

Let’s walk through each one so you know exactly what to choose.

Start by giving your deployment a name. This is just a label inside your Google Cloud dashboard, and you can use something like wordpress-1 or mywebsite.

For the Deployment Service Account, leave it set to ‘New Account’. Google Cloud will automatically create the right permissions to manage your instance.

Next, choose a zone where you want your website to be hosted.

Pick a region closest to your target visitors. For example, asia-southeast1-c for Asia or us-central1-a for the United States.

Under Machine type, you should stick with General Purpose. Then choose ‘e2-small (2 vCPU, 2 GB memory)’, which is a good balance between cost and performance.

In the Administrator email address field, you need to enter your real email address. This is where Google will send notifications and status updates related to your server.

Below that, you’ll see optional features. I recommend keeping both Install phpMyAdmin and HTTPS Enabled checked. This adds a database manager and an SSL certificate to your install.

For Boot Disk, leave it as Standard Persistent Disk with 20 GB selected. That’s enough for most small to medium WordPress sites.

In the Networking section, make sure both checkboxes are selected to allow HTTP and HTTPS traffic. This ensures visitors can reach your site in their browsers.

You can leave Google Cloud Operations unchecked unless you plan to use advanced monitoring tools. They’re not required for running a typical WordPress site.

Once you’ve reviewed everything, simply click the blue ‘Deploy’ button at the bottom. Google Cloud will now set everything up for you behind the scenes.

Once finished, you will see the status of your deployment. From here, you need to copy the ‘Instance Nat IP’. This is your site’s external IP, and you will need it in the next step.

Step 5. Connect Your Custom Domain to Google Cloud

To use your own domain name with your deployed WordPress instance on Google Cloud VM, you’ll need to update your domain’s DNS settings to point to the external IP address of your VM (virtual machine) instance.

First, go to the Google Cloud Console, open the ‘VM instances’ page, and copy the external IP address of your virtual machine.

This is the address your domain needs to point to.

Next, log in to your domain registrar’s dashboard — this is where you bought your domain, like Domain.com, GoDaddy, Bluehost, or other registrars.

I will show you instructions for Domain.com, but it is pretty much the same for all domain registrars.

Find the DNS settings or ‘Manage DNS’ section for your domain.

Here, you need to delete any A records that are currently pointing to a different IP address.

After that, click on the ‘Add Record’ button at the top.

In the form that appears, make sure the record type is set to A. In the ‘Refers to’ dropdown, choose Other Host. Change the Name or Host field to @ if you’re pointing the root domain (e.g., example.com).

In the IP address field, you need to enter the external IP address of your Google Cloud VM. For example, if your VM’s IP is 35.247.XX.XX, then you have to type that in.

Set the TTL (Time to Live) to the default value and then click the ‘Edit’ button to save the changes.

If you also want to support www.yourdomain.com, repeat the process and add another A record with the host set to www, pointing to the same IP.

It may take a few minutes for the DNS changes to propagate. Once that’s complete, visiting your domain in a browser should take you to your Google Cloud-hosted website.

After saving your DNS changes, it may take a few minutes (up to 24 hours, but usually much faster) for them to propagate globally.

Once that’s done, visiting your domain should load your website. You may still need to update your WordPress website address so that it uses your domain name instead of the IP address.

Method 3. Manually Host WordPress on Google Cloud VM

This method is for advanced users, developers, and learners. For this method, you’ll manually configure your VM and use the SSH command line to install software.

Step 1. Create a Project

To begin, you’ll need to sign in to your Google Cloud account and create a new project from the Cloud Console.

Once your project is created, the next step is to enable billing.

Step 2. Enable Billing

Simply click on the Billing label from the left column and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3. Enable Computer Engine

Once billing is set up, you need to click on the ‘Compute Engine’ option from the left column (or use the search bar at the top to find it) and click ‘Enable’ to start using the API.

This unlocks the tools that you’ll use to create and manage your server.

Step 4. Create a Virtual Machine

Once you have enabled the Compute Engine, you can now create a Virtual Machine instance (VM instance for short).

A VM instance is your own virtual private machine that you can turn into a VPS server to host your website on the Google Cloud platform.

On the next screen, you will be asked to configure your VM instance.

First, you need to provide a name for your VM, which could be anything that helps you easily identify it. And choose a region and zone where you want to host it.

Below that, you’ll see pre-configured setups for different use cases. I recommend using E2, which is low-cost and perfect for hosting a WordPress website.

Below that, you’ll be able to configure your instance further by adding more memory or CPU cores to it.

Next, you need to click ‘Create’ to continue to the next step.

Google Cloud console will now create your Virtual Machine instance and redirect you to the VM management dashboard.

Step 5. Set up Firewall Rules

While your VM is ready, its firewall rules currently don’t allow incoming traffic requests.

Let’s change that.

Simply click on the ‘Set up firewall rules’ option.

This will bring you to the Network Security area and display your VM’s firewall rules.

Simply click on the ‘Create firewall rule’ option to continue.

On the next screen, you need to enter the following information into the fields:

• Name: allow-http
• Targets: All instances in the network
• Source filter: IPv4 ranges
• Source IP ranges: 0.0.0.0/0
• Second source filter: None
• Destination filter: None
• Protocols and ports: Check ‘TCP’ and enter 80

Don’t forget to click ‘Create’ to save your firewall rule.

Your Virtual Machine is now ready for website traffic.

Step 6. Installing Web Server Software

Next, you need to use the SSH button in the Cloud Console to connect to your server. This command-line interface allows you to install software and give your virtual machine commands in text format.

You’ll need to use it to install the necessary software stack. This includes Apache or Nginx for your web server, PHP for WordPress, and MySQL or MariaDB for your database.

You can run it in your web browser. Once connected, you will see a black terminal screen.

Now, you will need to run several commands, one after another. I know it does sound a bit complicated, but trust me, it is not as difficult as it sounds. Simply copy and paste the commands below.

You’ll first start by updating your VM instance. This is kind of like updating your computer to ensure you have all the security updates installed:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

It may take a few minutes to complete. During this time, you may see options pop up. Simply hit Enter to continue with the default choices.

Once finished, copy and paste the following command to install the Apache web server:

sudo apt install apache2 -y

For those of you who want to install Nginx, you can enter the following command:

sudo apt install nginx -y

Wondering which one is better? See our article comparing Apache vs. Nginx vs. LiteSpeed.

I prefer Nginx because it gives better performance and speed. However, Apache is more widely used due to its flexibility and ease of use.

Once you have installed the web server software, the next step is to install MySQL. Simply run this command:

sudo apt install mysql-server -y

Depending on your VM’s operating system, in some cases, mysql-server may not be available for installation. In that case, you can use MariaDB as a drop-in replacement for MySQL. It works perfectly with WordPress, and the commands are nearly identical.

Simply add the following command to install MariaDB instead:

sudo apt install mariadb-server -y

After that, you need to run the MySQL/MariaDB installation.

Enter the following command next:

sudo mysql_secure_installation

During installation, you can accept the defaults or tighten things based on your comfort level (say yes to remove anonymous users, disable root login remotely, and so on).

Now that you have MySQL installed, you can create a database to use for your WordPress website.

First, enter this command:

sudo mysql -u root -p

You’ll be asked for a password. If you created one during the installation, you can use that. Or simply hit the Enter key on your keyboard.

You will now enter the MySQL server. This is where you will manage your WordPress database.

Let’s first create one by modifying and entering the following command:

CREATE DATABASE wordpress DEFAULT CHARACTER SET utf8 COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci;
GRANT ALL ON wordpress.* TO 'wpuser'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'strongpassword';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
EXIT;

You can change the database name from wordpress to anything else.

Similarly, you can change wpuser (the MySQL username), and finally replace strongpassword with your own strong password.

Next, you will need to install PHP and the required modules. Simply enter the following command:

sudo apt install php php-mysql php-curl php-gd php-xml php-mbstring php-zip libapache2-mod-php -y

Once the installation is finished, you need to restart your web server. This allows your web server to load the PHP and other installed modules on reboot.

For Apache, use the following command:

sudo systemctl restart apache2

For Nginx, you need to use the following command instead:

sudo systemctl restart nginx

Step 7. Connect Your Custom Domain to Google Cloud

To use your own domain name (like yourdomain.com) with your Google Cloud VM, you’ll need to update your domain’s DNS settings to point to the external IP address of your VM instance.

First, go to the Google Cloud Console, open the ‘VM instances’ page, and copy the external IP address of your virtual machine. This is the address your domain needs to point to.

Next, you have to log in to your domain registrar’s dashboard. This is where you bought your domain, like Domain.com, GoDaddy, Bluehost, or other platforms.

I will show you instructions for Domain.com, but it is pretty much the same for all domain registrars.

Find the DNS settings or ‘Manage DNS’ section for your domain.

Here, you need to delete any A records that are currently pointing to a different IP address.

Then, click on the ‘Add Record’ button at the top.

In the form that appears, make sure the record type is set to A. In the “Refers to” dropdown, choose ‘Other Host’. Change the Name or Host field to @ if you’re pointing the root domain (e.g., example.com).

In the IP address field, enter the external IP address of your Google Cloud VM. For example, if your VM’s IP is 35.247.XX.XX, type that in.

Set the TTL (Time to Live) to the default value and then click the ‘Edit’ button to save the changes.

If you also want to support www.yourdomain.com, repeat the process and add another A record with the host set to www, pointing to the same IP.

It may take a few minutes for the DNS changes to propagate. Once complete, visiting your domain in a browser should take you to your Google Cloud-hosted website.

After saving your DNS changes, it may take a few minutes (up to 24 hours, but usually much faster) for them to propagate globally. Once that’s done, visiting your domain should load your server instead of just the raw IP.

Step 8. Install SSL and Enable HTTPS

Before visiting your domain, it’s a good idea to set up an SSL certificate. This allows you to serve your WordPress site over HTTPS, which is more secure and preferred by search engines.

I recommend using Let’s Encrypt, which is a free and trusted certificate authority.

To make things easier, I’ll use a tool called Certbot to automatically issue and configure the SSL certificate for Apache or Nginx.

First, update your package list and install Certbot:

sudo apt update  
sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-apache -y

If you’re using Nginx, you can install Certbot with the Nginx plugin instead:

sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-nginx -y

Once installed, run this command to request an SSL certificate for your domain.

Remember to replace yourdomain.com with your actual domain:

sudo certbot --apache -d yourdomain.com -d www.yourdomain.com

For Nginx users, the command is:

sudo certbot --nginx -d yourdomain.com -d www.yourdomain.com

Certbot will ask a few questions, including your email for urgent notices. You can choose to redirect all traffic to HTTPS when prompted, and I recommend saying yes.

That’s it! You’ve now installed a free SSL certificate, and your site is available over HTTPS.

Note: Let’s Encrypt certificates are valid for 90 days, but Certbot automatically renews them. You can test auto-renewal with this command:

sudo certbot renew --dry-run

Step 9. Install WordPress on Your Server

Now it’s time to install WordPress. Switch back to your VM instance, SSH into your server, and run:

wget https://wordpress.org/latest.tar.gz

Once the download finishes, you need to extract it using the following command:

tar -xvzf latest.tar.gz

This creates a wordpress folder.

Move its contents to your web root, which is usually called /var/www/html/ , like this:

sudo mv wordpress/* /var/www/html/

You need to give proper file permissions so your web server can access everything:

sudo chown -R www-data:www-data /var/www/html/

Now, create the WordPress config file.

First, copy the sample:

sudo cp /var/www/html/wp-config-sample.php /var/www/html/wp-config.php

Edit it using nano or another editor to enter your database name, user, and password.

This is the information you saved earlier when creating your WordPress database:

sudo nano /var/www/html/wp-config.php

Save and close the file by pressing CTRL+X.

Finally, go to your domain in a browser, and you should see the WordPress installation screen.

You can now follow the steps to create your admin user and finish the setup. Need help? See our complete WordPress installation tutorial.

Troubleshooting Tip 💡: If you see a default server page instead of the WordPress installation screen. This means that a default index.html page is present in the root directory of your site. To delete it, connect to SSH again and enter the following command:

sudo rm /var/www/html/index.html

🎉 That’s it! You now have a working WordPress website running on Google Cloud with your custom domain.

Keep in mind that you’re also responsible for securing your WordPress site, managing backups, applying updates, and monitoring its performance. If you’re not confident doing those things, Method 1 (SiteGround) may be a better fit.

Google Cloud Hosting Costs Explained

One thing that can catch beginners off guard is how Google Cloud charges for hosting. Unlike traditional web hosts with flat monthly plans, Google Cloud uses a pay-as-you-go model that depends on how much you use their services.

When you launch a WordPress site on Google Cloud, whether manually or using Click to Deploy, you’re billed separately for your virtual machine, disk storage, network usage, and optional services, such as snapshots or load balancing.

For example, if you go with the default setup from Click to Deploy using an e2-small instance (2 vCPU, 2 GB RAM) and a 20 GB disk, the estimated monthly cost looks like this:

• VM instance: $15.09/month
• Persistent disk: $0.88/month
• Total estimated monthly cost: ~$15.97/month

This doesn’t include bandwidth usage or backup storage. If your site gets a lot of traffic, or if you store large files or create snapshots, then the cost can increase without warning.

You’ll also need to monitor usage, set up budget alerts, and manually handle software updates, backups, and security patches. That can be a lot of work if you just want to focus on building your site.

That’s why, even though Google Cloud is incredibly powerful, I don’t usually recommend it for beginners — unless you’re prepared to manage everything yourself and optimize for cost.

Google Cloud vs. SiteGround – Cost Comparison

SiteGround, on the other hand, provides the same Google Cloud infrastructure underneath, but with predictable pricing, automated security, expert support, and no unexpected bills.

If you’re building a serious website or running a business, the peace of mind and support alone are worth it.

Final Verdict: Why I Recommend SiteGround for Hosting WordPress on Google Cloud

Over the years, I have used all three methods: manual VM setup, Click to Deploy, and SiteGround. And my honest recommendation is simple.

If you love digging into server setups and want to learn cloud infrastructure hands-on, then the DIY method is a great project.

But if you’re focused on growing your business rather than managing infrastructure, then SiteGround is the smarter way to go.

You still get the power and reliability of Google Cloud behind the scenes. But everything else — performance optimization, backups, caching, staging, support — is handled for you by people who know WordPress inside and out.

We host WPBeginner on SiteGround, and many of our partner companies are also hosted on SiteGround.

If you’re building a serious website and don’t want to worry about server configuration, billing spikes, or keeping up with security patches, then SiteGround is where you should start.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hosting WordPress on Google Cloud

Bonus WordPress Hosting Resources 🎁

The following are a few additional resources on hosting WordPress that you may find helpful.

• How to Install WordPress on Amazon Web Services
• Shared Hosting vs. Cloud Hosting vs. Managed WordPress – What’s the Difference?
• Best Cloud Hosting Providers for WordPress (Expert Pick)
• How to Move WordPress to a New Host or Server With No Downtime
• Best WordPress Migration Services (Compared)

Whether you choose SiteGround for simplicity or go the manual route for full control, hosting WordPress on Google Cloud is absolutely doable. I hope this guide has helped you pick the right path and feel more confident about launching your site.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Host WordPress on Google Cloud Platform (3 Ways) first appeared on WPBeginner.

‘Your domain name is about to expire!’ is a pretty scary email that thousands of business owners receive every day. The thing is that many of these urgent messages are actually scams.

I’ve helped countless website owners avoid these traps over the years. The issue that these scams have now evolved from simple email tricks to sophisticated schemes that can fool even experienced website owners.

That’s why I wanted to create this guide to show you what these domain name scams look like and how you can protect yourself. Whether you own one domain name or a hundred, these tips will help you keep your digital property safe.

What Are Domain Name Scams?

Have you ever received an alarming message telling you that your domain name is about to expire? Maybe it even demanded immediate payment to prevent your website from being taken down.

These domain name scams are designed to extract money or sensitive information from domain owners or potential buyers.

Scammers use a range of tactics—emails, phone calls, even traditional mail—to catch you off guard. They often pretend to be real organizations and make their communications look official.

Now, let’s take a look at the most common domain name scams you may see.

1. Misleading Renewal Notices and Invoices

A few months back, I opened my inbox to find an email with the subject line: ‘URGENT: Your domain name is about to expire!’

The email looked official, and it even had a familiar logo and included my domain name.

But something felt off.

The renewal fee they asked for was twice what I usually pay. Plus, the sender’s email address was generic instead of my actual domain name registrar‘s official email. That’s when I realized it was a scam trying to trick me into either paying unnecessary fees to a fake company or unknowingly transferring my domain to their control.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

This practice is often known as ‘domain slamming’. Scammers might:

• Send official-looking emails or letters that mimic the branding of legitimate registrars.
• Use urgent language like ‘Immediate Action Required’ or ‘Final Notice’ to pressure you to act without thinking.
• Inflate renewal fees, charging prices much higher than standard rates.
• Trick you into transferring domains by sneakily including transfer authorization, so you unintentionally move your domain name to another registrar.

It’s not just digital communications. Some people get phone calls from scammers posing as customer service representatives, insisting on immediate payment.

And I’ve even received letters in the mail that looked real. They had professional letterheads and detailed information about my domain name.

One letter claimed I’d lose my domain name if I didn’t pay a steep renewal fee immediately. If I hadn’t been cautious, I might have fallen for it.

✅ How to Protect Yourself

Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself from misleading renewal notices and invoices:

• Verify the Sender: Always double-check that any emails, calls, or letters about your domain are actually from your domain registrar. You can do this by carefully looking at the sender’s email address. If it’s a call, letter, or you’re unsure about an email, it’s best to contact your registrar using the official phone number or support channels listed on their actual website, not from a suspicious message.
• Check Your Domain Name’s Expiration Date: Log in to your domain registrar’s account dashboard to check when your domain name expires.
• Don’t Let Urgency Pressure You: Scammers often use urgent language to make you panic and act quickly. If you get a demanding message, take a moment to pause and think things through before you do anything.
• Contact Your Registrar Directly: If you’re ever unsure about a notice you’ve received, it’s always safest to contact your domain registrar directly. Make sure to find their official contact information on their website, rather than using any phone numbers or links provided in the suspicious message.
• Educate Your Team: Make sure your team that manages your domain names is aware of these scams to prevent accidental loss.

For more details, just see the last section in this article.

2. Phishing Scams Leading to Domain Hijacking

I once received an email that seemed to be from my domain registrar. It had all the right logos and mentioned my domain name. The subject line read, ‘Important: Security Update Required.’

But before I clicked the link in the email, I noticed the URL didn’t look right. I realized it was a phishing attempt.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

Phishing scams are designed to trick you into handing over your login credentials. Scammers create emails or websites that mimic legitimate companies, hoping you’ll:

• Click on malicious links that lead to fake login pages that capture your username and password.
• Provide sensitive information, like your bank account details or passwords, through forms or direct replies.
• Download infected attachments that install malware that can compromise your security.

Remember, phishing attempts aren’t limited to email. Scammers may also use phone calls, text messages, and social media.

Once they have your login information, they can access your domain registrar account and take complete control. This is called domain hijacking.

By hijacking your domain, scammers can transfer your domain name to another registrar without your permission. They can also redirect your website to malicious sites or hold it hostage until you pay a ransom.

Remember, legitimate companies will never ask you to provide sensitive information through unsecured channels.

✅ Protecting Yourself From Phishing and Domain Hijacking

Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself against phishing and domain hijacking:

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Your Domain Account: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification. Most registrars offer two-factor authentication (2FA) options—usually via an authenticator app or SMS code.
• Verify Before You Click: Inspect the email address because scammers often use addresses that look similar to official ones. Before clicking, hover over the link to see where it actually leads. If it doesn’t match the official website, don’t click.
• Set Up Account Activity Alerts: Many domain registrars let you turn on notifications for important account changes. This way, you’ll get an email if someone logs into your account, changes your settings, or tries to transfer your domain. It’s a good way to catch any suspicious activity quickly without needing to constantly check your account manually.

3. Fake Domain Purchase and Appraisal Scams

Imagine getting an unsolicited email from someone eager to buy your domain name at a premium price.

Before you start celebrating, you need to make sure that the offer is legitimate.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

Scammers often use this tactic to exploit domain name owners:

• They express strong interest in your domain, often offering a price that’s above market value. (Related: Learn how much your website is worth.)
• They insist that you obtain a ‘certified domain appraisal’ from a specific service they recommend.
• The supposed buyer disappears once you pay for the appraisal, leaving you out of pocket.
• In some cases, they might use this scam to collect sensitive information about you or your domain name.

I’ve heard stories from other website owners who have come across similar schemes. These scams prey on the excitement of making a profitable sale.

✅ Protecting Yourself from These Scams

Here’s how you can protect yourself against fake purchase and appraisal scams:

• Do a Quick Search on the Buyer: If someone offers to buy your domain, it’s a good idea to do a little research on them. Real buyers usually have some online presence, like a company website, a LinkedIn profile, or business directory listings. If you search for their name or company and can’t find anything, that could be a red flag.
• Be Wary of Paid Appraisal Demands: Most legitimate buyers won’t ask you, the seller, to pay for a domain appraisal. If a potential buyer insists you use a specific appraisal service (especially one you haven’t heard of) and pay a fee, be very careful. If you do want an appraisal for your own information, it’s best to choose a well-known and trusted service yourself.
• Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information: Never share your sensitive information through email. Legitimate buyers only need basic information to make an offer. If they insist on sensitive details upfront, direct them to use a reputable domain broker or escrow service where transactions are protected.

I explain these safeguards in more detail at the end of this article.

4. Trademark Infringement and Related Domain Scams

Businesses may receive alarming messages claiming that someone is attempting to register similar domain names that potentially infringe on their trademark.

These communications often ask for immediate action to prevent brand damage, creating a sense of urgency and concern.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

Here are some ways scammers exploit brand protection concerns:

• They claim that someone is registering domain names that closely resemble your brand or trademark.
• Phrases like ‘urgent action required’ or ‘immediate attention needed’ are used to pressure businesses into quick responses.
• Scammers may suggest purchasing additional domain extensions or services to ‘safeguard’ the brand, which are often unnecessary.

These scams often arrive via email or phone. To appear legitimate, they may use official-sounding language or legal terminology. They want to frighten you into making a rushed decision.

✅ Protecting Against Trademark Infringement Scams

To avoid falling victim to these schemes:

• Don’t Let Panic Make You Rush: Scammers often use scary-sounding legal language or threats about your brand to make you act quickly without thinking. If you get a notice like this, the first thing to do is take a moment and don’t rush into any decisions or payments.
• Check if the Claim and Sender Are Real: Try to find out if the organization that contacted you is legitimate and if their claim has any truth to it. Look up the company online and find its official contact information. Also, carefully check the message itself for common warning signs, like generic greetings, poor grammar or spelling, and email addresses that don’t look official.
• Consider Talking to a Legal Expert: If the notice seems serious, or if you’re genuinely worried that there might be a real trademark issue, it can be very helpful to speak with a lawyer who knows about intellectual property. They can look at the situation, tell you if there’s a real problem, and explain what your options are.
• Do Your Own Quick Checks: You can use a WHOIS lookup tool online to see if the domain names mentioned in the warning are actually registered by someone else or if they are still available. If the message is urging you to buy multiple domain names to ‘protect your brand,’ think carefully about whether you actually need them.

Check the end of this article for more detailed information on how to protect yourself.

5. Homograph Attacks (Typosquatting)

Domain scammers often use a trick called a homograph attack. They register domain names that look almost identical to legitimate ones, but use different characters.

For example, they might register ‘exɑmple.com’ instead of ‘example.com’. The ‘a’ looks the same, but it’s actually a different character from another alphabet.

This technique makes scam emails look legitimate at first glance. When you receive a message about your domain name, always check the sender’s email address and any links carefully for these subtle character substitutions.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

Homograph attacks trick us because we usually read words by how they look at first glance, instead of carefully checking each letter.

Scammers register domain names that are visually similar to popular sites by:

• Using Lookalike Characters: Replacing letters with identical or near-identical characters from different alphabets (e.g., Cyrillic ‘ɑ’ instead of Latin ‘a’).
• Common Misspellings: Registering domain names with common typos (e.g., ‘gooogle.com’ instead of ‘google.com’).
• Alternate TLDs: Using different top-level domain names (TLDs) like ‘.net’ instead of ‘.com’ to catch users off guard.

Once you visit these fake sites, scammers may steal your personal information by prompting you to log in or enter sensitive data.

Alternatively, they can download malicious software onto your device or display unwanted ads or content to generate revenue through ad impressions or affiliate links.

✅ Protecting Yourself from Homograph Attacks

Here’s what I’ve learned to do to stay safe:

• Always Double-Check Web Addresses (URLs): Before clicking on a link, especially in an email or message, hover your mouse over it to see the actual web address it points to. Once you’re on a website, take a quick look at the address in your browser’s address bar to make sure it doesn’t contain any misspellings or unusual characters.
• Use Your Browser’s Built-in Protection: Most modern web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge have built-in security features that can warn you if you try to visit a known unsafe website. Make sure these features are turned on.
• Be Wary of Unsolicited Communications: Don’t click on links from unexpected emails or texts, even if they seem urgent. If you are in doubt, please contact the organization directly using its official contact information.

I cover these strategies in more detail later in this article.

6. Related: SEO and Search Engine Submission Scams

A while back, I received an email offering to submit my website to ‘hundreds of search engines’ for a small fee. The message promised quick results and top rankings.

It sounded tempting—who wouldn’t want their site to be easily found online?

Unfortunately, this is another common type of scam.

⚠️ How These Scams Work

SEO and search engine submission scams prey on the desire to get more traffic. Scammers might:

• Offer to submit your domain to numerous search engines. But major search engines like Google and Bing automatically crawl and index websites, and you can submit your site to search engines for free.
• Promise top rankings overnight. But genuine SEO is a long-term strategy, and no one can guarantee instant top positions.
• Request payment for secret algorithms or insider knowledge. But search engine algorithms are proprietary and closely guarded. Anyone claiming insider access is misleading you.

These offers often come via unsolicited emails or ads and use buzzwords like ‘guaranteed traffic’ or ‘instant SEO success’ to lure you in.

✅ Protecting Yourself from SEO Scams

Here’s what I’ve learned to do when confronted with these tempting offers:

• Do Some Research First: If a company offers you SEO services, take a few minutes to look them up online. See if you can find reviews or any complaints. You should be cautious if they promise things like ‘instant top rankings’ or discuss ‘secret SEO methods’ because real SEO doesn’t work that way.
• Understand How Search Engines Work: Know that major search engines will find and index your site automatically. And understand that SEO takes time and involves optimizing content, improving site speed, and other techniques.
• Be Careful with Unexpected SEO Offers: If you receive an unexpected email promising amazing SEO results, then you should be cautious. Reputable SEO companies won’t send spammy emails like that. Scammers will also often try to pressure you by claiming an offer is for a limited time, but don’t let that rush you into a decision.
• Stick to Good SEO Basics: Learning a few basic things about how SEO works can really help you. When you understand the fundamentals, it’s much easier to see when someone is making promises that are too good to be true. For details, you can see our ultimate guide to WordPress SEO.
• Choose SEO Help Wisely: If you decide you want professional help with your SEO, look for reputable experts or agencies. It’s a good sign if they have real testimonials or case studies from other clients that you can check. You can see our list of the best WordPress support agencies to see some companies that we recommend.
• Keep Your Login Information Safe: Never share your website login details, such as your WordPress admin password or financial information, with someone just because they offer you SEO services. If you do hire someone, ensure that any payments are made through secure and well-known payment methods.

In the next section of this article, I’ll explain in more detail the best strategies for protecting yourself from domain name scams.

Tips to Protect Yourself From Domain Name Scams

Over the years, I’ve used several strategies to keep my domain names safe from scammers. Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your domain names.

✅ Enable Registrar Lock

One of the first things I did after registering my domain names was to enable registrar lock, which is also known as domain lock.

This setting prevents anyone from transferring your domain name to another registrar without your permission. To transfer your domain, you’ll need to log in to your account and unlock it first. This is a simple but effective way to add extra security.

Simply log in to your domain registrar’s control panel and look for the domain lock option. In the example below, it is labeled ‘Transfer Lock’, but some registrars may use different wording.

If you’re unsure, reach out to your registrar’s support team for guidance.

✅ Use WHOIS Privacy Protection

When I first registered a domain name, I was surprised to find my personal contact information listed publicly in the WHOIS database. This visibility can make you a target for scammers.

By enabling WHOIS privacy protection, your personal details are hidden from public view.

If you’re curious about how this works, our guide on how to find out who actually owns a domain name explains how to find domain ownership information and the importance of privacy.

✅ Regularly Monitor Your Domain Name Status

It’s easy to forget renewal dates, especially if you have multiple domain names.

I recommend setting up domain expiry reminder emails directly with your domain registrar and enabling automatic domain name renewals.

For more information, see our guide on how to check your domain expiration date.

✅ Educate Your Team

If you have staff or team members who help manage your website or have access to your domain registrar account, ensure they are aware of these common scams.

It’s a good idea to share examples of suspicious emails or messages with them so everyone learns what to look out for and can help keep your domain safe.

✅ Verify Communications

As I’ve mentioned before, always be very careful with emails, phone calls, or letters about your domain name that you weren’t expecting.

Before clicking any links, providing information, or making payments, take a moment to verify if the message is real. If you have any doubts, it’s always safest to contact your domain registrar directly using the official phone number or support channels listed on their website.

✅ Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Adding an extra layer of security can make a big difference. I enabled 2FA on my domain registrar accounts, so even if someone guesses my password, they can’t access my account without the second verification step.

Most domain registrars offer 2FA options, which are usually found in the account security settings. For example, some registrars let you enable 2FA with a simple ‘Two-Step Sign In’ toggle switch.

Tip: You can also add two-factor authentication in WordPress to protect your website.

✅ Deal Only with ICANN-Accredited Registrars

It’s best to register your domain names with well-known and reputable companies.

Look for registrars that are ICANN-accredited (ICANN is the organization responsible for managing domain names globally).

Good registrars usually provide better security features for your account, helpful customer support if you need it, and clear, honest communication about your domain name.

For recommendations, see our pick of the best domain name registrars.

✅ Keep Your Contact Information Up to Date

 It’s really important to make sure your contact information (email, phone number, address) with your domain registrar is always up to date. If you’ve recently changed your contact details, then make sure to update them.

This is how your domain registrar will contact you about important things like renewal reminders or security issues.

✅ Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers

Whether it’s an email about SEO services or a call from someone wanting to buy your domain, approach unsolicited communications with caution.

Don’t agree to anything on the spot. Take the time to verify the offer or service. If you are unsure, then seek advice from trusted colleagues or industry experts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domain Name Scams

Many website owners worry when they receive messages about their domain names. Based on my experience helping website owners, here are answers to the most common domain security questions.

1. What is a domain name scam?

Domain name scams are deceptive practices that try to trick domain owners or potential buyers into giving up money or sensitive information.

Scammers use tactics like fake renewal notices, phishing emails, and misleading offers to exploit unsuspecting individuals.

2. How can I tell if a renewal notice is a scam?

Phrases like ‘Immediate Action Required’ or ‘Final Notice’ are often used by scammers. You should also be wary of emails or letters from companies you don’t recognize.

Besides that, watch out for renewal costs that are significantly higher than your usual rate. And always verify any renewal notice by logging into your registrar’s website or contacting their customer support directly.

3. What is domain slamming?

Domain slamming is when scammers send misleading transfer or renewal notices to trick you into switching domain registrars or paying unnecessary fees.

Make sure you read all messages carefully and check that they are from your actual domain registrar. And always be skeptical of unexpected emails or letters about your domain name.

4. How do phishing scams lead to domain hijacking?

Phishing scams trick you into revealing your login credentials by mimicking your domain registrar’s website or communications.

I once got an email that looked like it was from my domain registrar, asking me to log in due to ‘suspicious activity’. Instead of clicking the link, I accessed my account directly and found everything was fine.

I recommend you enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security. Also, never click suspicious links, and navigate to your registrar’s site manually.

Finally, use strong, unique passwords, and avoid using the same password across multiple sites.

5. What should I do if someone offers to buy my domain?

While it can be exciting to receive an unsolicited offer, make sure to be careful. Red flags include when they insist you pay for an appraisal service and make very high offers as bait.

My advice is to research the buyer, verify their credibility, and never pay upfront fees.

6. Are the trademark infringement notices I receive always legitimate?

Not necessarily. Scammers try to use fear around brand protection.

Watch out for urgency and pressure. Scammers often push you to act quickly and demand fees to ‘protect’ your brand.

7. How do homograph attacks (typosquatting) work?

Scammers register domain names that look like yours by using similar or international characters. For example, they may replace ‘o’ with ‘0’ (zero) in a domain name.

Be sure to double-check URLs before clicking on links or entering information. And it’s best to navigate to important sites using saved bookmarks.

8. What should I do if I suspect I’ve been targeted by a scam?

First, don’t engage and avoid responding to the scammer. Next, change your passwords to secure your accounts immediately.

Finally, you should contact your domain registrar and inform them of the suspicious activity. You can also report the scam to the appropriate authorities or online platforms.

9. Can someone steal my domain name?

Yes, domain hijacking is a real threat.

That’s why we recommend using strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) when logging in to your domain registrar account. This makes unauthorized access more difficult.

Also, you should regularly monitor your domain status and consider using a registrar lock. This adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized transfers.

10. Why am I receiving so many unsolicited emails about my domain?

If your domain’s WHOIS information is public, then scammers can easily find your contact details.

The solution is to enable WHOIS privacy protection, which hides your personal information from public databases.

I hope this tutorial helped you learn about common domain name scams and how to avoid them. You may also want to see our guide on how to check domain name availability or our expert pick of the best domain name generators to help you pick a domain fast.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post 6 Common Domain Name Scams to Avoid (& How to Spot Them) first appeared on WPBeginner.

When I first started building WordPress websites, tracking visitor data just meant installing Google Analytics and calling it a day.

But times have changed. With new privacy regulations, using cookies to collect personal information without user consent can lead to legal headaches and lost visitors.

I’ve helped several WordPress site owners transition to cookie-free analytics solutions that still provide powerful insights. After testing numerous options and implementing them across various types of websites, I’ve identified the most effective approaches.

In this guide, let me show you two ways to add analytics while respecting your visitors’ privacy. One uses a privacy-first setup for Google Analytics (which uses first-party cookies), and the other is a cookieless option.

Do I Really Need Cookieless Analytics?

You’ve probably heard a lot about cookies and privacy laws. But what does it all really mean for your WordPress website’s analytics? Let me break it down.

Cookies are small pieces of data that are stored on a user’s browser when they visit a website.

Traditional analytics tools like Google Analytics 4 (GA4) use these cookies to track visitor behavior. This includes details like which pages they visit, how long they stay, and what actions they take.

All this data helps site owners better understand their audience and improve their websites.

🚨 Here’s the challenge: New privacy laws, like the GDPR, CCPA, and ePrivacy, require websites to ask for explicit user consent before tracking with cookies. Because of this, many website owners think they must switch to cookie-free analytics to stay compliant.

However, that’s not actually true!

You can still track important data with Google Analytics while staying compliant with privacy laws.

Why “Cookieless” Google Analytics 4 is the Best Option

When it comes to website analytics, Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is still the best and most powerful tool available – and that’s true for all types of websites. So, if you want accurate insights into your visitors’ behavior, GA4 is the way to go.

But before we start, let’s clear up a common misunderstanding: GA4 does not rely on third-party cookies. Instead, it uses first-party cookies, which are set by your own website to collect data about your visitors’ activity on your WordPress site only.

In contrast, third-party cookies are set by external services (like ad networks) and track users across multiple websites. Because of their broader tracking scope, they raise more privacy concerns and are being phased out by many browsers.

Now, you might be wondering: “Since GA4 still uses cookies – even if they’re first-party – can it be used in a way that complies with privacy laws?”

The answer is yes!

However, do note that Google Analytics itself isn’t automatically compliant or non-compliant. It’s your responsibility to use it in a way that follows the rules that apply to you.

Plus, whether you need cookie consent for Google Analytics depends on several factors. They can be where you and your visitors are located, and how you handle their data.

Since cookie consent laws differ by country (even within the EU), some websites must ask users to consent to specific cookies, while others need a banner for any cookie use.

To help with this, I’ll show you how to pair GA4 with:

✅ MonsterInsights with the EU Compliance addon – This helps ensure your data handling aligns with GDPR and other privacy regulations.

✅ WPConsent cookie banners – These help you request and manage user consent the right way.

With these tools in place, you can continue using GA4 in a way that supports compliance with privacy laws. This helps you gather valuable insights while reducing the risk of legal issues.

How to Add WordPress Analytics Without Cookies

Now that I’ve covered what cookieless tracking is and whether you really need it, let’s talk about how to set it up on your WordPress site.

There are 2 solid options to do this:

1. GA4 + MonsterInsights EU Compliance addon – Track user behavior with GA4 while staying compliant with privacy laws like GDPR. It uses first-party cookies and offers configurable settings for stronger privacy. Ideal for getting detailed insights with easy website integration.
2. Burst Statistics – Let’s you set up analytics without cookies. It stores data on your server and offers a hybrid mode with optional cookies.

I will cover both methods in our tutorial, along with some extra tips and FAQs about cookieless tracking.

Feel free to use the jump links below to go to your preferred method:

Ready? Let’s break it down.

Method 1: How to Set Up WordPress Cookieless Analytics (Keep Using GA4 for the Best Insights)

This method is for if you want access to powerful analytics while still respecting user privacy. I’ll be using MonsterInsights alongside WPConsent to set up cookieless tracking.

Step 1: Install MonsterInsights to Set Up Cookieless Analytics

MonsterInsights is the most popular Google Analytics plugin for WordPress, and for a good reason: it makes viewing your Google Analytics data in WordPress incredibly easy.

At WPBeginner, we use it to track traffic sources, visitor demographics, and conversion rates on our forms, buttons, referral links, and more. Check out our complete MonsterInsights review for a deeper look at its features.

So, let’s first install and activate the MonsterInsights plugin. For details, you can see this guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 2: Connect MonsterInsights to Google WordPress Analytics

Once you have MonsterInsights up and running, it’s time to connect it to your site and your Google Analytics account.

You can click the ‘Insights’ tab in the left-hand menu of your WordPress dashboard.

Next, just click the ‘Launch the Wizard’ button to start the MonsterInsights setup process.

On the next screen, you’ll need to pick a category that best describes your website.

This can be a WordPress blog, business site, or online store.

Just hit ‘Save and Continue’ after you make your choice.

After that, you’ll need to connect MonsterInsights to your website’s Google Analytics account.

Simply click the ‘Connect MonsterInsights’ button to begin the process.

In the next steps, you’ll have to sign in to your Google Analytics account and select the website you want to track.

MonsterInsights will then install Google Analytics on your site – easy as that!

For details, you can see this guide on how to install Google Analytics in WordPress.

Step 3: Install the MonsterInsights EU Compliance Addon

Since GA4 still uses first-party cookies, you need to make sure that your tracking complies with GDPR. The MonsterInsights EU Compliance addon makes this easier by automating key privacy settings in GA4.

Some of its essential features include:

• Anonymizing IP addresses to prevent personal data storage.
• Disabling the tracking of user demographics, interests, and User IDs.

To install the addon, you can navigate to Insights » Addons.

Here, go ahead and click the ‘Install & Activate’ button to install the EU Compliance addon.

After that, you can switch the toggle to activate the addon when it appears.

Upon activation, let’s go to the ‘Settings’ menu.

In the ‘Engagement’ tab, simply toggle the ‘Enable EU Compliance’ setting to turn it on.

We also recommend verifying the settings directly in GA4 to ensure your GA4 setup aligns with your MonsterInsights privacy settings.

For example, to make sure your GA4 doesn’t track demographics, you can navigate to your GA4 ‘Admin’ panel.​

Next up, you’ll want to locate the ‘Data collection and modification’ setting.

Then, simply click the ‘Data collection’ option.

Now, in the ‘Google signals data collection’ settings, you should make sure it’s disabled.

Why does this matter? Google Signals collects extra user data, including:

• Demographics & Interests – Age, gender, and hobbies.
• Location & Engagement – User locations (from Google accounts).
• Cross-Device Tracking – Identifies users as they switch between devices.
• Cross-Platform Reports – How users interact across devices.
• Ad Personalization Data – Connects with Google Ads for remarketing.

If it’s already off, then you should see the option to ‘Turn On’ like this:

You might also want to review your data retention settings.

Data retention controls how long GA4 stores user-level and event-level data before automatically deleting it. A shorter retention period can help with GDPR compliance and privacy regulations.

To do this, you can go to Data collection and modification » Data retention from the ‘Admin’ menu.

On the next screen, you’ll see options to set the event and user data retention period.

You can click the ‘Data retention’ dropdown menus for both event and user data. Then, for stricter compliance, simply choose the ‘2 months’ option.

Don’t forget to click ‘Save’ when you’re done adjusting.

To learn more about all things GA4, you can check out our beginner’s guide on how to use Google Analytics 4.

Step 4: Set Up the WPConsent Cookie Consent Plugin

Using Google Analytics 4 while complying with laws like GDPR and CCPA means you need to get user consent before tracking. And that responsibility falls on you.

Whether consent is required depends on where your business is based, where your users are located, what data you collect, and how it’s used. Plus, rules vary widely across countries, even within the EU, with some requiring consent for specific cookies and others for any type.

Instead of handling this manually yourself, you can use WPConsent to simplify compliance.

This powerful plugin lets you display a cookie consent banner, log user choices, and control when tools like GA4 are allowed to run — all within WordPress.

At WPBeginner (and some of our partner brands), we use WPConsent, and it’s been a reliable solution for managing privacy settings. Explore all of its features in our complete WPConsent review!

So, let’s start by installing the WPConsent plugin. If you need help, then you can see this beginner’s guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Upon plugin activation, let’s activate the license key.

To do this, you’ll need to go to WPConsent » Settings. After that, simply copy the license key from your WPConsent account and paste it into the ‘License Key’ field.

Then, go ahead and click the ‘Activate Key’ button.

With that done, let’s navigate to ‘Dashboard’ to go through the setup wizard.

Go ahead and click on the ‘Let’s Get Started’ button.

On the next screen, WPConsent will run a scan to see if your site is using cookies.

First, it will ask you to check your site’s email address.

If everything looks good already, then you can click ‘Scan Your Website.’

This will trigger the tool to start the cookie scan.

Once done, you’ll see a ‘Scan completed’ notification along with a short report on the tool’s findings. For example, here it says that WPConsent found 4 services on our site that have set cookies.

Let’s click on ‘OK’ to continue the process.

Next up, you’ll see your WordPress site’s scan results in more detail.

On my demo site, the services that use cookies are WordPress login (this might be because of the ‘Remember Me‘ option), WordPress Comments, Google Analytics, and Matomo.

Make sure that you select all the services. Then, you should also check the box that says ‘Prevent known scripts from adding cookies before consent is given.’

With that done, go ahead and click the ‘Auto-Configure selected’ button.

After that, WPConsent will prompt you to set up your cookie banner.

The process is super simple. You just need to choose a layout and pick a position.

Then, you can scroll down the page to preview your cookie consent banner.

If everything looks good to you, it’s time to click the ‘Save & Complete Setup’ button.

And you’re done!

Now, if you visit your website, you’ll see your cookie consent banner in action.

👉 Expert Tip: Adding a link to your privacy policy page in the cookie banner helps build trust with your visitors and align with legal requirements. If you don’t have one yet, then check out our tutorial on how to add a privacy policy page in WordPress.

After setting it up, you can embed the link into your cookie banner from the WPConsent editor.

Just navigate to WPConsent » Banner Design from your admin area. Then, you can edit the text in the ‘Message’ field to include the link to your Privacy Policy page.

Don’t forget to click the ‘Save’ button so you don’t lose your progress.

And here’s your cookie banner:

Step 5: Access Consent Logs to Verify Your Privacy Settings

WPConsent has a ‘Consent Logs’ section that provides a detailed record of how visitors interact with your site’s cookie consent popup.

To see your logs, go ahead and navigate to WPConsent » Consent Logs from your WordPress admin area.

Here, you’ll find a table with all your users’ consent details.

For example, I have a user who accepted all cookies – essential, statistics, and marketing.

And that’s it – you’ve successfully set up Google Analytics with enhanced privacy settings while still using cookies.

Method 2: How to Set Up WordPress Analytics Without Cookies (Free Option with Less Data Accuracy)

If you’re looking to track analytics without cookies, then Burst Statistics is a great option. This free plugin makes the process pretty simple.

Keep in mind that Burst Statistics uses a technique called fingerprinting. It’s a way to identify a computer or device based on its unique characteristics, like the browser, operating system, and installed fonts, even without using cookies.

While it’s generally considered less intrusive than cookies, it’s still a form of tracking, so it’s good to be aware of it.

Now, let’s take a look at how you can set it up on your WordPress site.

Step 1: Install and Activate the Burst Statistics Plugin on WordPress

To get started, you need to install and activate the free Burst Statistics plugin. Simply navigate to Plugins » Add New Plugin from your admin area.

After that, you’ll want to use the search feature to quickly find the plugin. Then, go ahead and click the ‘Install Now’ button.

Then, you should click once again on the ‘Activate’ button when it appears. If you need help, then you can check out this guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 2: Configure Settings for Optimal Performance and Privacy

Upon plugin activation, you can enable analytics without cookies straight away.

All you have to do is navigate to Statistics » Settings from your WordPress admin area. Then, let’s make sure you’re in the ‘General’ tab.

From here, simply switch on the ‘Enable Cookieless tracking’ option like this:

And that’s it – you’ve successfully set up WordPress analytics without cookies on your website.

Step 3: Verify if Your Analytics Are Working Properly

Unlike the more traditional approach, analytics without cookies avoids storing personal data, like IP addresses or other user identifiers. Instead, it provides anonymized, aggregated data.

That said, it’s important to note that some methods still involve data collection. This may carry privacy implications depending on how they’re implemented.

To see if your analytics are working properly, you need to go to the ‘Statistics’ menu. On the next screen, you’ll immediately find your visitors and pageviews graph for the last seven days.

To see the statistics in detail, you can scroll down this page.

Here, you might notice that your sessions are counted differently.

In traditional analytics, cookies track when a visitor starts and ends a session. If the same person comes back within a certain time frame (usually 30 minutes), it’s counted as the same session.

In analytics without cookies, returning users cannot be recognized within that window. Instead, each visit is treated as a new session, even if it occurs shortly after the last one.

🤔 What does this mean for your reports? You may see a higher number of sessions than usual because visitors who leave and return within a short period won’t be grouped into a single session.

Further down the page, Burst Statistics provides a dedicated ‘Pages’ report that shows how pageviews are distributed across your site.

For example, if your ‘Compare’ report shows 9 pageviews, then you can see that 3 views came from the ‘Career’ page, 2 views from the ‘Login’ page, and so on.

FAQs About Cookieless WordPress Analytics

Still have questions? Let’s clear up some common concerns about tracking website data without cookies.

Why do websites need cookies?

Cookies store small amounts of data to remember user preferences, track user behavior, and improve the user experience. Many analytics tools use cookies to identify returning visitors and track interactions over time.

How can I add analytics to my WordPress site?

In short, you can add analytics to your WordPress site using tools like MonsterInsights, Matomo, or HubSpot.

I recommend MonsterInsights because it makes installing Google Analytics in WordPress easy. It gives you all your GA4 data in easy-to-understand reports directly in your WordPress dashboard.

For details, see this guide on how to install Google Analytics in WordPress.

Do all websites with analytics need cookie warnings?

No. If your analytics solution doesn’t store personally identifiable information (PII) or track users across sessions using cookies, then you don’t need a cookie consent banner. This is why many site owners switch to analytics without cookies.

For example, Burst Statistics is a privacy-focused analytics tool that uses fingerprinting techniques. Instead of storing cookies, it analyzes non-personal browser and device data to differentiate visitors.

Keep in mind that while this approach is technically cookieless, it is still a form of data collection that may have privacy considerations.

Will cookieless analytics affect data accuracy?

It depends on the tool you use.

Cookieless tracking may not capture user journeys in as much detail, but it still provides accurate insights into overall traffic, page views, and engagement.

Many modern cookieless analytics tools use fingerprinting techniques or server-side tracking to improve accuracy. While these methods minimize cookie usage, they still collect data in other ways, which may raise concerns about privacy.

Can I switch back to traditional analytics if needed?

Yes, most analytics solutions allow you to switch between cookieless and traditional tracking. However, if you start using cookies again, then you may need to add a cookie consent banner to comply with privacy laws.

Further Reading 📚: More WordPress Analytics Guides

I hope this article has helped you learn how to add WordPress analytics without cookies.

Want to dive deeper into WordPress analytics? Check out these guides to track and understand your website’s performance more effectively:

• How to Set Up Google Analytics Goals
• How to See Search Analytics in WordPress
• How to Easily See Your Blog Stats
• How to Track Video Analytics in WordPress
• How to Set Up WordPress Form Tracking in Google Analytics
• How to Set Up Email Newsletter Tracking in Google Analytics
• How to Add Scroll Depth Tracking in WordPress with Google Analytics
• MonsterInsights vs Site Kit (Head-to-Head Comparison)
• Google Analytics vs Jetpack Stats (In-Depth Comparison)
• Best Analytics Solutions for WordPress Users

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Add WordPress Analytics Without Cookies (2 Easy Methods) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Ever tried visiting a website only to find it’s completely gone? Chances are, someone forgot to check their domain expiration date. After helping many different people set up WordPress websites, I’ve seen this happen more times than I’d like to count.

Checking your domain expiration date is a simple but important task that many website owners overlook. But don’t worry – it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know where to look.

I’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide that shows you exactly how to check when your domain expires, using methods I’ve personally tested and verified over the years.

Why Check Your Domain Expiration Date?

Have you ever had that moment of panic when you go to your website, and it’s just gone?

I remember once I was launching a small side project. I’d registered a domain, set up a basic landing page, and was ready to go. Then, a few weeks later, the website vanished.

It turns out, in my excitement, I’d completely forgotten about the domain renewal date.

What happens when a domain name expires?

Your website essentially disappears from the internet. Visitors trying to find you will see a ‘This site can’t be reached’ error page, or maybe even a page full of ads put there by someone else.

Also, the email addresses linked to the domain will stop working. This can lead to missing important emails from clients or customers.

And it’s not just about your website and email. Your domain name is your online identity, so losing it can damage your brand and reputation.

Can You Recover a Domain Which Has Expired?

Now, here’s the somewhat good news. Sometimes, you can recover an expired domain. But it’s not always guaranteed, and it can get complicated and sometimes expensive.

Generally, after a domain expires, it enters a grace period for a few weeks. You usually have the first right to renew it during this time, often at the regular renewal price.

However, if you miss that grace period, things get trickier. The domain might go into a redemption period. This is another phase where you might still be able to get it back, but now you’ll likely face huge redemption fees on top of the renewal cost.

If you miss the redemption period, your domain will become available for anyone to register, including one of our competitors.

Prevention is always better than a cure. Regularly checking your domain expiration date and setting up renewals is way less stressful than the headache of trying to recover an expired domain.

Now, I will show you the best ways to check your domain expiration date:

1. Using Your Domain Registrar’s Account Page

If you’re wondering when your domain expires, your domain registrar’s account page is the first place I’d recommend checking. It’s quick, easy, and gives you all the information you need.

The domain registrar is the service where you first registered your domain name, such as Domain.com, Bluehost, GoDaddy, or Namecheap.

Most registrars make it super simple to find your domain expiration date right in your account dashboard. Simply head over to your domain registrar’s website and log in to your account.

Once you’re logged in, look for something like ‘Domain Management’, ‘My Domains’, or similar. It’s the place where you see a list of all the domains you own through them.

The expiration date is clearly displayed next to each domain or when you click on a specific domain to manage it. Often, it’s right there on the main domain overview page.

Another bonus is that you’ll usually find options to renew your domain right next to the expiration date.

2. Using WHOIS Lookup Services

WHOIS is like a giant, publicly accessible phonebook for domain names. Its database holds information about who registered a domain, when they registered it, and, importantly, when it expires.

There are tons of websites that offer WHOIS lookup services. But I recommend using the ICANN Lookup tool because ICANN manages domain names globally.

Other popular WHOIS sites include DomainTools and Whois.com.

Using these services is usually very simple. You’ll see a search bar right on the homepage. Just type in the domain name you want to check – like ‘example.com’ – and hit enter or click the ‘Search’ or ‘Lookup’ button.

The WHOIS service then fetches the domain information and displays it to you.

And buried in all that information, you’ll almost always find the expiration date.

I have found WHOIS lookup services, especially ICANN Lookup, to be incredibly convenient for quick checks. This is especially true when you just need to know the expiry date and don’t want to log into any accounts.

Tip: WHOIS Privacy

Now, a little heads-up about privacy. You might have heard of WHOIS privacy or domain privacy.

Many people use privacy services to protect their personal information from being publicly listed in the WHOIS database.

If a domain owner uses privacy services, then some of the contact details in the WHOIS record might be masked or replaced with generic contact information.

But the expiration date is still almost always publicly visible, or at least easily findable within the WHOIS output. It’s one piece of information they usually don’t hide.

So, even with privacy services in place, WHOIS and especially ICANN Lookup are still reliable for checking that domain expiration date.

3. Setting Up Domain Name Expiry Notifications

I’ve already shown you how to check your domain expiration date. But what about making sure you never miss it in the first place? That’s where domain expiry notifications come in handy.

They are like setting up a safety net for your online presence. The problem is, it’s easy to forget about domain renewals, especially if you have multiple domains or registered them a while ago.

Expiry notifications are your defense against this. They’re like little digital nudges, reminding you to take action before it’s too late.

Setting Up Domain Expiry Notifications With Your Domain Registrar

Where do you actually set up these notifications? The best and most direct place is usually with your domain registrar. They all typically offer built-in notification systems.

For example, Bluehost will send you automatic domain expiration notifications by default. They will email you at least two reminders within 60 days before the expiration date, and a final reminder 5 days before.

Some registrars let you customize these notifications. For example, you may be able to set the notification frequency to a 60-day, 30-day, or 7-day email reminder.

You might also be able to specify notification email addresses. This is useful if you have a team managing domains or want reminders sent to a different email address than your main account email.

Setting Up Third-Party Domain Expiry Notifications

If you’re really serious about long-term domain monitoring, then you could even consider using dedicated domain monitoring services like UptimeRobot.

You can use the service’s domain monitoring to receive alerts 30, 14, 7, and 1 day before your domain name expires and view the expiration date anytime in your dashboard.

Notifications can be sent via email, SMS, voice call, or through one of many integrations (such as Slack, Zapier, Splunk, and more).

But honestly, for most people, setting up email notifications through your domain registrar is more than enough to keep on top of your domain renewals and avoid an unexpected domain expiration.

4. Enabling Auto Renewals So Your Domain Doesn’t Expire

Want to know the absolute best way to make sure your domain never expires accidentally? It’s simple: set up auto-renewal.

Auto-renewal is a service your domain registrar provides that automatically renews your domain registration right before it expires. Think of it as an automatic bill payment for your domain name.

Typically, a few weeks or days before your domain expiration date, the registrar will automatically charge the payment method you have on file with them – your credit card, debit card, or whatever you use. This will pay for your domain renewal for another year (or however long you choose for your renewal period).

I’ve been using auto-renewals for years, and they make things much easier. I don’t have to remember renewal dates or manually renew each domain—it just happens.

If you haven’t already enabled automatic renewals on your domain, then you can do this easily next time you renew it. With most registrars, it is offered as a very clear option during the domain renewal process.

For example, with Bluehost, you will see buttons to enable or disable auto-renewal at the top of the Renewal Center page.

All you need to do is click the button labeled ‘Enable Auto-Renew’.

With Domain.com, the option is presented as a simple toggle switch instead. Just make sure the switch is enabled when you reach the Summary page before you pay for your domain renewal.

Simply look for the automatic renewal option on your domain registrar. This is a preferred method of payment, so it is normally displayed prominently.

You’ll find more information about the renewal process in our guide on how to renew a domain name for all major hosting registrars.

Plus, many domain registrars like Bluehost and HostGator offer domain expiration protection as an option. For a small fee, this will renew your domain for an additional year if your automatic payment is unsuccessful.

FAQ About Checking Domain Expiration Dates

Even after reading my guide on how to check your domain expiration date, you may still have questions. Here are answers to the questions I’m asked most frequently:

1. Why is it so important to check my domain expiration date?

Letting your domain expire can cause lots of problems. Your website could go offline, your emails might stop working, and you could even lose your domain name completely.

Checking the expiration date is a simple way to avoid these headaches and protect your online presence.

2. Do domain names expire automatically?

Yes, domain name registrations are typically for a set period—usually a year, but sometimes longer. If you don’t renew your domain registration before the expiration date, it will expire. It’s not a one-time purchase, but more like renting your domain name for a specific period.

3. What happens if I forget to renew my domain and it expires?

If your domain expires, then your website and linked email services will likely stop working. During a grace period, you might be able to renew it at the regular price.

But if you miss that, then you could face higher redemption fees, or even lose the domain name if someone else registers it.

4. Can I check the expiration date of any domain name, even if I don’t own it?

Yes, absolutely! Methods like WHOIS lookup services are designed to let you check the expiration date (and other public info) for almost any registered domain name.

5. Do I need to pay to use WHOIS lookup services?

Most basic WHOIS lookup services are free to check domain expiration dates and basic domain information. Some of these sites also offer more advanced paid services, but the basic lookup is usually free.

6. What is domain auto-renewal, and should I set it up?

Auto-renewal is a service offered by domain registrars that automatically renews your domain before it expires, charging your saved payment method.

I strongly recommend setting up auto-renewal! It’s the most foolproof way to prevent accidental domain expiration and ensures your website and email stay online without interruption.

7. I checked my domain expiration date, and it’s coming up soon. What should I do?

Renew your domain as soon as possible! The easiest way is usually through your domain registrar’s account page. You can typically renew for another year or multiple years. If you have auto-renewal set up, double-check that it’s enabled and your payment information is current.

I hope this tutorial helped you learn how to check your domain expiration date. You may also want to see our guide on how to check domain name availability or our expert pick of the best domain name generators to help you pick a domain fast.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Check Domain Expiration Date: Avoid Website Downtime first appeared on WPBeginner.

Last week, a friend who manages multiple WordPress sites called me in a panic. A routine plugin update had broken his client’s navigation menu, but he didn’t notice until customers started complaining.

This is a common problem I’ve seen countless times, and it’s exactly why visual regression testing is so important for WordPress website owners.

Visual regression testing might sound complicated. However, it’s actually a simple solution that can save you hours of manual checking and prevent embarrassing layout issues.

Typically, it works by automatically comparing before-and-after screenshots of your pages. This helps catch even the smallest visual changes that might break your site’s appearance. 🔍

In this guide, I’ll show you how to do visual regression testing on your WordPress site. After testing numerous tools and methods, I’ve found the most reliable solution that won’t require any coding knowledge or technical expertise.

What Is Visual Regression Testing, and Why Is It Important? 🤔

Every time you update your site — whether it’s a WordPress core update, a new plugin, a theme change, or just a minor code tweak — there’s a chance that something on the front end might shift out of place.

For example, a button could disappear, your layout might break, or a product image could stop loading properly.

The problem? These visual bugs often go unnoticed until a visitor points them out through a contact form or design feedback survey.

By then, the damage to your site’s user experience might already be done.

That’s where visual regression testing comes in.

The process is simple: take snapshots of your pages before and after an update, then compare them to spot anything that’s changed.

And if you’re testing on a staging site (which we recommend), you can safely make updates and run comparisons to catch visual issues before anything goes live.

The good news? You don’t have to do it manually.

With visual regression testing tools like VRTs, Percy, or BackstopJS, you can automate screenshot comparisons and check how your site looks across different screen sizes — helping you catch layout issues on desktop, tablet, and mobile.

Why is this important for WordPress users?

If you’re managing a WordPress website, visual regression testing is a time-saving safety net. Instead of clicking through every page after an update, this tool gives you a visual report of what changed — and whether it’s something you need to fix.

It’s especially helpful in many scenarios, such as agencies running updates across multiple WordPress sites, freelancers managing client websites, or online store owners who want to make sure the product and checkout pages stay intact.

In short, visual regression testing helps you avoid frustrating surprises, save time, and keep your WordPress site running smoothly.

With that said, I’ll share how to easily do visual regression testing in WordPress. Here’s a quick overview of all the steps I’ll cover in this guide:

Step 1: Install and Activate the Visual Regression Testing Plugin

In this tutorial, I’ll use the VRTs plugin because it’s beginner-friendly and super easy to use for visual regression testing. Whether that is a shifted layout, a missing button, or a broken element after an update, VRTs helps you spot it early.

Here’s how it works: The plugin takes screenshots of the pages you select. You can then trigger comparisons manually or schedule them to run automatically after making changes to your site, such as updating a plugin or tweaking your theme.

The plugin then compares the ‘before’ and ‘after’ screenshots side-by-side and highlights any visual differences.

So, instead of manually checking every page, you get a quick visual report showing what changed, and whether anything looks off.

To install the plugin, you first need to visit the VRTs website and sign up for a plan by clicking on the ‘Get started for free’ button.

You can then choose one of the plans. The free plan will allow you to test up to 3 pages per day on one domain and schedule daily tests.

On the other hand, paid plans will allow you to test a higher number of pages, run manual tests, and automatically run visual regression tests after WordPress core, plugin, and theme updates.

Simply click on ‘Buy now’ or ‘Install now’ underneath the plan you want to use.

Then, follow the instructions to sign up for an account on the VRTs website and add your payment details.

Once you have completed the payment, you will land on your VRTs dashboard, where you can download the plugin as a .zip file.

Then, simply head to Plugins » Add Plugin and click on the ‘Upload Plugin’ button. From here, you can choose the VRTs plugin .zip file that you just downloaded.

Make sure to activate the plugin once it has been installed. For full details, you can see our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 2: Configure the VRTs Plugin Settings

Once you’ve activated the plugin, it’s time to set up when your visual regression tests should run.

Head over to VRTs » Settings in your WordPress admin menu.

Once inside, you can scroll down to the ‘Triggers’ section — this is where you tell the plugin when to automatically take and compare snapshots.

Here are the available options:

• Run Tests every 24 hours (Free) – This is the default setting. VRTs will automatically check your selected posts or pages once per day for visual changes.
• Run Tests after WordPress and plugin updates (Pro) – Great for catching layout issues caused by updates, right when they happen.
• Run Tests with your favorite apps (Pro) – Connect VRTs with external tools or workflows using webhooks.
• Run Tests on demand (Pro) – Manually trigger tests whenever you need them, directly from your WordPress dashboard.

Once you’ve selected the trigger that fits your workflow (or your license), simply click the ‘Save Changes’ button at the bottom of the page.

Step 3: Add New Pages or Posts to Test

Once you’ve configured the plugin settings, it’s time to choose which pages or posts you’d like to include in your visual regression tests.

Let’s now switch to the ‘Tests’ tab, which is where you’ll manage and run your visual tests.

From here, you can click the ‘Add New’ button. This will let you choose posts or pages to test.

In the popup that appears, you need to choose the pages or posts you want to perform the visual regression testing on.

Then, click ‘Add New Test’ to confirm your selections.

The VRTs plugin will take an initial snapshot of each selected page. This acts as your baseline — basically a “before” version of how your posts or pages look right now.

After setting up your test, you’ll see an instruction to refresh the page to load the initial snapshot. Go ahead and do just that.

With that done, you’ll find a link to the page or post snapshot you added for testing.

You will also see that the ‘Test Status’ is automatically set to ‘Scheduled’ for the next day. This is because the free version of VRTs runs tests on a 24-hour schedule.

You can click the ‘View Snapshot’ link to check the initial screenshot.

It will open in a new tab like this:

Now, you can make any changes you need to your site. Then, come back tomorrow to review the comparison and spot any unexpected visual issues.

Step 4: Check for Visual Differences

Once the test is complete and any visual bugs are detected, you should see a notification alert in the VRTs » Runs tab.

Once inside, you can hover over the run with changes detected.

Then, click the ‘Show Details’ link when it appears.

On the next screen, you’ll see a side-by-side comparison of your page, showing the before and after versions.

The plugin automatically highlights visual differences, so you can quickly spot:

• Layout Shifts and Misaligned Elements: If your design changes after a plugin update or theme change, like buttons moving out of place or text jumping around, VRTs will flag it.
• Missing or Broken Elements: Whether it’s a missing image, CTA button, or embedded form, VRTs make it easy to spot anything that disappears unexpectedly, which is especially useful for eCommerce or landing pages.
• Unexpected Content Changes: The plugin will also alert you to changes in text, links, or images, so you can catch unauthorized edits or publishing errors before users do.

You can use the drag handle in the center of the screen to slide between the old and new versions and visually confirm the exact changes.

Step 5: Review and Take Action

After running a visual regression test, you can take action based on the results. Here’s what you can do next:

• Manually edit the page: If the changes are small, you can fix the issues directly by editing the page, such as adjusting the layout, moving elements, or adding back missing features.
• Revert to a backup: If the changes are bigger or harder to fix, you can restore the page to a previous version using your website backup or version history. This helps avoid leaving issues on your site.

FAQs for Running Visual Regression Testing in WordPress

If you’re just getting started with visual regression testing, you’re not alone. Here are some quick answers to common questions I often hear from WordPress users and developers.

What is the difference between snapshot testing and visual regression testing?

Snapshot testing checks if your website’s code or content stays the same, kind of like saving a backup of how things are supposed to be.

Visual regression testing, on the other hand, focuses on the appearance of your site. It compares screenshots before and after updates to catch layout changes, missing elements, or visual bugs you might not notice right away.

What is the best tool for visual regression testing in WordPress?

The easiest option is the VRTs – Visual Regression Tests plugin. It’s beginner-friendly, doesn’t require any coding, and runs directly from your dashboard. Plus, it has a free version that’s super easy to use.

How can I do regression testing manually?

Manual regression testing means going through your site and checking key pages after you make changes, like installing a new plugin or updating your theme.

You’ll want to visit your homepage, contact page, checkout process (if you have one), and any custom layouts to make sure everything still looks and works as it should. It works, but it can be time-consuming if you manage a large or busy site.

How do you speed up regression testing?

The best way to save time is to automate it. Using a plugin like VRTs – Visual Regression Tests lets you create snapshots of your important pages and quickly compare them after an update.

No need to manually click through every page — the plugin does the visual check for you.

You can also test updates on a staging site first, so you’re not fixing issues on a live site.

What are the best ways to test WordPress website design?

Here are a few tips to test your WordPress design:

• Use a visual regression tool like VRTs – Visual Regression Tests to spot design changes.
• Preview your theme and plugin updates on a staging site.
• Test on multiple screen sizes (desktop, tablet, and mobile).
• Use browser dev tools to check how your site looks in different viewports.
• Ask for feedback from users or clients — they often notice things you might miss.

I hope this article has helped you learn how to do visual regression testing in WordPress. Next, you might want to check our article on creating chat rooms in WordPress for your users and the best user experience feedback questions to ask site visitors.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Easily Do Visual Regression Testing in WordPress first appeared on WPBeginner.

Last year, I saw someone miss out on their dream domain name because they didn’t know about domain backordering. They’d been waiting months for this domain to expire, but someone else swooped in and grabbed it the moment it became available.

Over the years, I’ve helped many different website owners secure their desired domain names through backordering. I’ve tested numerous domain registrars and backorder services, learning what works (and what doesn’t) when trying to grab an expiring domain name.

If you’ve got your eye on a domain that’s currently registered to someone else, I’ll show you exactly how domain backordering works.

I’ll also show you the best ways to increase your chances of securing that perfect domain name.

What Is Domain Backordering and Why Use It?

Did you know that thousands of valuable domain names expire and become available again every single day? Yet many people don’t realize there’s a systematic way to claim these domains before someone else snatches them up.

That’s where domain backordering comes into play.

What Is Domain Backordering?

A domain backorder is essentially a service that attempts to register a domain name the moment it becomes available. When you use a backorder service, you are placing a reservation on a domain that’s currently registered to someone else.

It’s like standing first in line for a ticket to a sold-out show, hoping someone cancels so you can grab their spot.

And trust me, the thrill of finally acquiring that ideal domain is unbeatable.

Why Would You Backorder a Domain?

Sometimes, you’ll come up with a perfect domain name for your blog or online store, but it’s already taken. Perhaps it’s not being actively used — or worse, the domain is parked and gathering dust. That’s when domain backordering can be a game-changer.

Here are some reasons you might consider backordering a domain:

• You can potentially get a premium domain name that’s currently registered.
• It’s more cost-effective than buying directly from the current owner, who might demand a premium price.
• You get professional assistance in securing the domain the moment it’s available, saving you time and energy.
• Using multiple backorder services can boost your odds of success.

Challenges of Domain Backordering

I’ve also learned that domain backordering isn’t perfect. There are some challenges and risks.

Mainly, there’s no guarantee you’ll secure the domain because you might not be the only one who wants it. If multiple parties backorder the same domain, it could go to auction, driving up the price beyond what you might be prepared to pay.

I’ve also noticed that some services charge you even if the backorder attempt is unsuccessful. And sometimes, the current owner renews the domain at the last minute, resetting the whole process and leaving you back at square one.

If you don’t mind the risk that it doesn’t work out, keep reading!

What have you got to lose?

It might seem scary at first, but I’ve gone through the domain backordering process numerous times, both for myself and my friends.

Here’s a quick overview of what I’ll discuss in this article:

I’ll cover everything you need to know about domain backordering and tips to help you increase your chances of securing that perfect domain name.

The Domain Registration Life Cycle: How Does it Work?

Timing is everything when it comes to domain backordering. But when exactly is the right moment to place that backorder?

To answer that, you need to understand how domain names progress through their lifecycle. Here are the main phases:

• Domain Registration Periods: Every domain name is registered for a set period, usually ranging from 1-10 years. During this time, the owner has full rights to use and renew the domain as they see fit.
• Expiration and Grace Periods: When a domain’s registration period ends and it’s not renewed, it doesn’t become available to the public immediately. Instead, it enters what’s called a Grace Period. This typically lasts between 30 and 45 days. During this phase, the current owner can still renew the domain at the regular renewal price without any penalties.
• Redemption Period: If the domain isn’t renewed during the Grace Period, it moves into the Redemption Period, which usually lasts about another 30 days. Now, the original owner can still reclaim their domain, but they’ll have to pay a hefty redemption fee — sometimes up to $200.
• Pending Delete Status: After the Redemption Period ends, the domain enters the Pending Delete phase, which lasts around 5 days. At this point, the domain is scheduled for deletion, and the original owner can no longer renew it. No one can modify or register the domain during this time.

Once the registration status is deleted, the domain becomes available to the public!

Now, here’s an illustration that may help you visualize the lifecycle of a domain a little better:

If you discover your dream domain is in the redemption or pending delete phase, it may be time to act. But if you find your desired domain doesn’t expire for another 9 years, that’s probably your sign to be patient and check in later (or look for another domain).

In the next section, we’ll show you how to monitor a domain’s status. This way, you can decide whether it’s worth it to put in a backorder.

Doing Your Research Before Backordering a Domain Name

When you’re looking to backorder a domain name owned by someone else, it’s important to do some basic research first.

I’ve learned from experience that not all domains are created equal. Some might violate copyrights or trademarks, have been used to distribute malware or spam, or have been involved in other malicious activities. You definitely want to avoid those pitfalls.

But don’t worry — there are plenty of tools at your disposal to help you do your research.

Monitoring the Domain’s Status

Staying informed is half the battle in domain backordering. WHOIS tools provide you with historical WHOIS records for all types of domain names.

This helps you see when a domain name was created, when it was last renewed, when DNS changes were made, and other historical data.

By reviewing the historical WHOIS records, you can spot any red flags, such as frequent ownership changes, which might indicate issues.

Here are some tools I’ve found particularly helpful for monitoring a domain’s lifecycle:

• ICANN WHOIS Lookup: The official ICANN WHOIS lookup tool offers authoritative data directly from the domain’s registry. It displays important dates like creation, expiration, and last updated, as well as the domain’s current status codes.
• DomainTools: This website provides comprehensive WHOIS records along with historical data. It can help you track changes over time and see if the domain has gone through multiple expiration cycles.
• ExpiredDomains.net: This platform lists domains that are expired, pending deletion, or available soon. It’s a valuable resource for monitoring domains approaching the end of their lifecycle and identifying potential backorder opportunities.

By using these tools, you can keep a close eye on your desired domain’s status and be ready to place a backorder at the optimal time.

I’ve found that combining these monitoring tools with backordering services significantly increases my chances of securing the domains I want.

Checking for Trademarks

Next, you’ll want to make sure the domain name isn’t infringing on any registered trademarks.

According to ICANN rules, if a domain name violates a company’s registered trademark, then that company can claim the domain name or ask you to take it down. I’ve seen this happen, and it’s a situation you definitely want to avoid.

You can check the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s database to do a quick trademark search. Simply enter your desired domain name in the search box to see if it returns any matches.

Checking Past Domain Name Usage

It is also important to check how the domain has been used in the past. What kind of websites were associated with it? Was it linked to any suspicious activities?

I’ve made it a habit to check a domain’s history before proceeding.

The easiest way to do this is to use the Wayback Machine. It is a massive historical archive of the internet, with snapshots of websites archived regularly.

By entering the domain name, you can see past versions of the website and get a sense of its previous content.

Running a Domain Health Check Test

Finally, you need to make sure that the domain hasn’t been used for spamming, launching cyber attacks, or spreading malware. I’ve learned that inheriting a domain with a bad reputation can cause major headaches down the line.

You can use tools like MxToolBox’s domain health tool to check for any red flags. Simply enter the domain name, and the tool will run a series of checks to identify potential problems.

Choosing the Right Backordering Service

Selecting the right domain backordering service can make all the difference when you’re trying to secure that perfect domain name.

Not all backordering services are created equal. Some clearly show their prices and are helpful when you have questions. Others make it hard to get the information you need when you need it.

In my experience, here are the key criteria you should look for in a backordering service:

• Transparent Pricing and Policies: You don’t want any surprise fees popping up.
• Track Record: A service with a history of successful backorders increases your chances of securing that perfect domain.
• Good Customer Support: When questions arise, responsive support is very important.
• Clear Communication: Receiving timely updates keeps you in the loop.

Now, let’s dive into some of the popular domain backordering services I’ve encountered. I’ll highlight their key features to help you make an informed decision.

1. Domain.com

Domain.com specializes in premium domain acquisitions. They’ve helped me secure unique domain names that I couldn’t find elsewhere.

This is what I like about Domain.com:

• They keep a close watch on expiring domains, increasing your chances of acquiring them.
• Speed is critical, and they don’t waste any time when a domain becomes available.
• They have a curated list of premium domains that might just fit your needs.
• Their team is ready to assist with any questions or issues.

One thing to keep in mind is that pricing details can vary with Domain.com.

It’s best to check their current rates and policies directly. I’ve found their investment worthwhile when searching for a special domain name.

2. Namecheap

Namecheap offers a user-friendly backordering experience. I think it’s an especially good option if you’re on a tight budget.

This is what I like about Namecheap:

• You only pay if the backorder is successful.
• You stay informed throughout the process with up-to-the-minute information.
• If the domain goes to auction, then it’s all handled seamlessly within their system.
• The platform is straightforward to navigate, even if you’re new to backordering.

I’ve appreciated their straightforward approach. However, I’ve also found that they might have less aggressive drop-catching capabilities compared to some larger services.

3. Network Solutions

Network Solutions brings a wealth of experience, especially if you’re targeting niche or specialized domains.

This is what I like about Network Solutions:

• Ideal for industry-specific domain names.
• They don’t give up easily and keep monitoring for longer durations.
• Knowledgeable staff can guide you through the process.
• As one of the oldest registrars, they offer legacy domains and have a deep understanding of the domain landscape.

Network Solutions may be particularly useful if you’re working with clients in specialized fields. However, their pricing can be higher, and sometimes their interface feels a bit outdated compared to more modern platforms.

4. GoDaddy

GoDaddy‘s backorder service is popular because it is closely integrated into its comprehensive domain marketplace.

This is what I like about GoDaddy:

• Access to professional brokers who can assist if the domain doesn’t drop.
• They don’t just try once. They make several attempts to secure the domain.
• They carefully monitor your desired domain’s status.
• With a vast user base, they have a track record of successful acquisitions.

But one downside I’ve noticed is that competition can be fierce on GoDaddy. If multiple users backorder the same domain, then it could go to auction, potentially driving up the price beyond what you’re comfortable paying.

5. DropCatch

DropCatch has proven to be one of the most powerful backorder services available, especially for high-value and highly competitive domains.

This is what I like about DropCatch:

• With over 1,000 ICANN-accredited registrars, they send multiple simultaneous registration requests the moment a domain drops.
• They’ve invested heavily in their drop-catching systems, making them incredibly quick.
• Managing backorders is straightforward with their clean dashboard.
• If multiple users backorder the same domain, then they hold a public auction.

One thing to note is that the base price is higher than that of some competitors. Also, popular domains can end up in competitive auctions, driving up the final price.

An Overview of the Top Domain Backordering Services

You can use this table to compare the pricing and key features of each domain backordering service:

My Experience and Recommendations

I find that the best approach is to use multiple backordering services simultaneously. It increases your chances, especially for high-value domains where competition is fierce.

And remember, no service can guarantee success. It’s important to weigh the costs against the value of the domain to you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support with any questions.

Selecting the right backordering service boils down to your specific needs, budget, and the domain you’re targeting. By understanding what each service offers and how they align with your goals, you’ll be well on your way to securing that perfect domain name.

Properly Placing a Backorder Domain

Once you have chosen a backordering service, you will need to sign up for an account if you don’t already have one.

This usually involves providing some basic contact information and setting up payment methods. I like to set this up in advance so I’m ready to act when the time comes.

Next, you should use the backordering service’s search function to locate the domain you want to backorder. Confirm that the domain is eligible for backordering and note any specific conditions or auction processes that may apply.

Simply follow the prompts to place your backorder. This typically involves agreeing to terms and conditions and making the necessary payment.

Some services only charge you if the backorder is successful, while others may require an upfront fee. I appreciate services that offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Monitoring the Domain Backorder Progress

When you place your backorder, make sure you enable notifications so you receive updates about its status. In my experience, staying informed is key, especially if the domain goes to auction or if additional action is required on my part.

Once your backorder is in place, it’s a bit of a waiting game. The domain will move through its expiration phases, and your backordering service will monitor it closely.

I recommend checking in from time to time to stay updated. If your service offers a dashboard, then use it to track the domain’s status.

Remember, patience is part of the process. Domains can take weeks or even months to become available, depending on where they are in the lifecycle. I like to set reminders for myself so I don’t become too fixated, but still stay on top of any developments.

Potential Domain Backorder Outcomes

When you place a domain backorder, there are a few possible outcomes. I’ve experienced all of them at one point or another. Understanding these outcomes can help you prepare for each scenario and decide your best course of action.

Outcome 1: Your Domain Backorder Is Successful

If your backorder is successful, you should celebrate!

But first, you’ll need to complete the registration process to officially secure the domain. This usually involves confirming your contact details and agreeing to any registrar terms. I like to double-check everything at this stage to ensure there are no hiccups.

Once registered, don’t forget to set up auto-renewal if you plan to keep the domain long-term. I’ve learned from experience that it’s easy to forget renewal dates, and auto-renewal provides peace of mind.

Outcome 2: The Domain Backorder Goes Up for Auction

Sometimes, several users will place backorders on the same domain. In such cases, the domain often goes to auction.

I’ve been through a few of these, and while they can be intense, having a strategy helps.

Here are some tips if you find yourself in a domain auction:

• Decide beforehand the highest amount you’re willing to pay and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but you’ll thank yourself later.
• Some auctions are public, while others are private among the interested backorder parties. Knowing the rules can give you an edge.
• Auctions have time limits. Keep an eye on deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out.

I’ve found that staying level-headed during auctions helps. In my opinion, it’s better to walk away than overextend your budget for a domain that’s not absolutely critical.

Outcome 3: Your Domain Backorder Is Unsuccessful

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your domain backorder may be unsuccessful. It’s disappointing, but don’t give up. There are alternative paths you can take.

I’ll cover these alternatives in the next section, so keep reading for further guidance.

Alternatives to Domain Backordering

Don’t lose hope if your backorder attempt doesn’t pan out. I’ve helped many friends secure their desired domains through alternative methods that can be just as effective.

Contacting the Current Domain Owner

Sometimes, the direct approach is the most straightforward. If the domain you want is already taken, then reaching out to the current owner might be your best bet.

First, you’ll need to perform a WHOIS lookup to find the owner’s contact information. I show you how to do this in my guide on how to find out who actually owns the domain name.

When reaching out, keep your communication professional and courteous. Introduce yourself and express genuine interest in purchasing the domain.

I’ve found that being transparent about our intentions helps build trust. You might say something like:

“Hello, I’m interested in acquiring your domain example.com for my upcoming project. Would you be open to discussing a potential sale?”

Be prepared to negotiate on price. The owner might have a specific value in mind, or they may ask you to make an offer. It’s wise to have a budget in place and know how much the domain is worth to you.

In my experience, starting with a fair offer can move the conversation along more smoothly.

Considering Different Domain Extensions

If acquiring the exact domain name isn’t possible, then exploring alternative domain extensions can be a solid Plan B.

I’ve had friends who initially wanted a .com but found success with other top-level domains (TLDs) like .net, .org, or even newer extensions like .io or .co.

Here are some things to consider:

• Relevance: Choose an extension that makes sense for your industry or audience. For example, .org is commonly associated with non-profits.
• Availability: Alternative TLDs often have more availability, increasing your chances of finding the perfect name.
• Brand Consistency: Make sure that the new extension doesn’t confuse your audience. I’ve found that clear communication in marketing materials helps avoid this.

While .com is still the most recognized TLD, alternative extensions can offer a unique touch to your brand. In my opinion, it’s better to have a memorable domain with a different extension than an overly complex .com that no one can remember.

Modifying Your Desired Domain Name

Another option is to slightly modify your desired domain name. This could involve adding a keyword, using abbreviations, or incorporating your location.

Some strategies I’ve seen work well include:

• Adding Action Words: If ‘example.com’ is taken, consider ‘getexample.com’ or ‘tryexample.com’.
• Including Your Niche: Tailor the domain to your industry, like ‘examplemedia.com’ or ‘exampletech.com.
• Using Shortened Versions: Abbreviations or acronyms can make your domain concise and memorable.

Just make sure that any modifications still align with your branding goals. Consistency is key, and you want your domain to reflect your business accurately.

I’ve seen companies successfully rebrand around a modified domain, turning it into a unique asset rather than a compromise.

Considering Subdomains

Using a subdomain is another creative solution. If you already own a primary domain, then you can create a subdomain for your new project. For instance, if you already own ‘example.com,’ you could try ‘blog.example.com,’ or ‘store.example.com.’

While subdomains might not be ideal for standalone brands, they can be effective for different sections of your website or for launching new initiatives under an existing brand umbrella.

Final Thoughts

Missing out on a backordered domain can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. I’ve navigated these challenges before and found that with a bit of creativity and persistence, you can secure a domain that works for you.

Remember:

• Be open to alternatives and consider how they might even offer new opportunities.
• Whatever route you choose, ensure it aligns with your overall brand strategy.
• The digital landscape moves quickly. Acting promptly increases your chances of securing the domain you want.

At the end of the day, your domain is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s important, yes, but what you build on that domain is what truly counts.

So keep moving forward, and don’t let a minor setback derail your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domain Backorders

I’ve covered a lot of ground on domain backordering, but you might still have some questions. Here are answers to some of the most common queries I’ve been asked.

1. What exactly is a domain backorder?

A domain backorder is a service that allows you to ‘reserve’ a domain name that’s currently registered to someone else.

If that domain becomes available because the current owner doesn’t renew it, then the backorder service attempts to register it on your behalf the moment it drops.

2. Is there a guarantee I’ll get the domain I backorder?

No, there’s no guarantee. I’ve found that while backordering improves your chances, it doesn’t ensure success.

Other people might also backorder the same domain, or the current owner might renew it at the last minute. But using a reputable backordering service certainly gives you a fighting chance.

3. What happens if multiple people backorder the same domain?

If several parties place a backorder on the same domain, then most services will hold a private auction once they secure it. The domain goes to the highest bidder in that auction.

I recommend setting a clear budget before you start bidding.

4. Do I have to pay if the backorder isn’t successful?

It depends on the service. Some, like Namecheap, only charge you if they successfully secure the domain. Others might have non-refundable fees or processing charges.

I always read the fine print to understand any potential costs upfront.

5. How long does the backordering process take?

The timeline can vary. It depends on where the domain is in its lifecycle. It could take as little as 30 days if the domain is near expiration or several months if it’s just been renewed.

I’ve learned to be patient and keep tabs on the domain’s status through our backordering service.

6. Can I backorder a domain that’s already expired?

Yes, you can. If a domain has expired but isn’t yet deleted, then it’s often in the redemption or pending delete phase. This is a prime time to place a backorder.

In my experience, acting quickly during this window can improve your chances of success.

7. What if the current owner wants to sell the domain?

If the owner is open to selling, then you might consider reaching out directly to negotiate a purchase. I’ve sometimes found this to be a quicker route.

However, be prepared for the owner to ask for a premium price, especially if the domain has significant value.

8. Is backordering legal and ethical?

Absolutely. Domain backordering is a legitimate service offered by many accredited registrars. It’s a first-come, first-served system once a domain becomes available.

I always make sure I’m not infringing on trademarks or engaging in cybersquatting, which can lead to legal issues.

9. Can I cancel a backorder after placing it?

Policies on cancellations vary by service. Some allow you to cancel and get a refund if the domain hasn’t been secured yet. Others might not offer refunds.

I make it a habit to thoroughly review cancellation policies before placing a backorder.

10. What if the domain I want is in an auction?

If the domain is already in an auction, then you won’t be able to backorder it. Instead, you’ll need to participate in the auction to bid on the domain.

I’ve found that auctions can be competitive, so it’s important to set a budget beforehand.

11. Can I use multiple backordering services for the same domain?

Yes, and I often do. Using multiple services can increase your chances since different services might have different levels of success in capturing the domain. Just keep in mind that if more than one service succeeds, you might end up in multiple auctions.

Related Guides: Domains & How to Buy Them

I hope this tutorial helped you learn what a domain backorder is and how to place one properly. If you’re looking for more useful information about domain management, check out these guides:

• Beginner’s Guide: What Is a Domain Name and How Do Domains Work?
• How to Check Domain Name Availability (Easy Domain Search Tools)
• Best Places to Find Premium Domain Names for Sale (+ Expert Tips)
• How To Buy a Domain Name Anonymously (Easy Ways)
• Should You Choose a New Domain Extension for Your Website?
• What’s the Difference Between Domain Name and Web Hosting (Explained)
• The Best Domain Name Registrars (Compared)

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post What Is a Domain Backorder? (And How to Properly Place One) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Since Threads launched in 2023, I’ve been experimenting with different ways to share my WordPress blog posts there automatically. Like many website owners, I initially posted manually, but that quickly became time-consuming as I managed multiple sites and social channels.

Between summarizing content, researching the right hashtags (and even emojis!), and formatting everything, I was losing valuable time that could be better spent growing my business. 

That’s why I started looking for an alternative that could speed up the entire process. And after testing a few different tools, I found a plugin that allows you to automatically post from WordPress to Threads — no coding required.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through straightforward steps that connect your WordPress site to Threads, allowing you to grow your audience and say goodbye to tedious manual posting.

Why Share Your Content on Threads?

For small business owners, one of the best ways to grow and get traction is to build a loyal community. One easy way to do that is by engaging with your users directly on social media platforms, including X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and now Threads. 

Threads launched in 2023 as a Meta (formerly Facebook) product to compete directly with X (previously Twitter).

Within 5 days, Threads had over 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Plus, at the time of writing, there were over 320 million active users every month.

With those types of numbers, you can assume that many of your users and customers are active on Threads!

While there are many similarities to X (Twitter), Threads has some key differences:

• There’s a higher character limit than with X’s free accounts (500 vs. 280).
• There’s no advertising.
• Direct messaging isn’t supported.
• The interface is simpler and more streamlined.
• Only 1 tag is allowed per post.

Of course, the biggest reason to integrate your WordPress site with Threads is that you can do so with very little cost and effort. With an automation plugin like Uncanny Automator, you can set up an automated workflow that posts periodically to your Threads account with no oversight needed.

This is exactly what I do on my own small business website. As new blog posts are published, I share them automatically on Threads.

I also use Automator to share occasional tips about buying and selling secondhand clothes. And in this article, I will show you how to create these types of recipes on your own WordPress site.

Related Posts: Learn how to automatically post your WordPress content to Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Step 1: Install Uncanny Automator on Your Website

In this tutorial, I will show you how to use Uncanny Automator to automatically publish from WordPress to Threads.

Uncanny Automator is the best WordPress automation plugin that lets you build automated workflows with no code. It connects with hundreds of plugins and third-party apps, including social platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, X, and more.

You can read this complete Uncanny Automator review for more information.

By connecting your WordPress site to Automator, it can automatically generate and share your posts in the background while you create content on your WordPress site. 

Besides Threads, Uncanny Automator also connects directly with OpenAI, which is how we will create shareable, high-converting posts on Threads. The post content will be generated automatically based on guidance we send to OpenAI, with no user oversight needed.

You can use the free version of Uncanny Automator for this tutorial, along with an OpenAI API key. The free plugin license uses a credit system, and if you need a higher posting limit, then Uncanny Automator Pro licenses provide unlimited posting credits. 

First, you need to go to Plugins » Add New Plugin and search for the free Uncanny Automator plugin. Click to install and activate it.

This will then launch the onscreen setup wizard.

You can either continue with a free account or sign up for a paid Uncanny Automator account. Just follow the onscreen instructions to finish the setup.

If you need any help, see this guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 2: Connect WordPress to Threads

After setting up Uncanny Automator, the next step is to connect Threads to your WordPress site. You must have a Threads account set up and ready to use with Automator.

To connect your Threads account, just go to Automator » App integrations.

In the list of integrations on the left side of the page, scroll down to ‘Threads’.

You have to click that to see the details for the integration, and then click the ‘Connect Threads account’ button at the bottom of the frame.

You will be directed to Threads to sign in and give Uncanny Automator access to your Threads account.

Just follow the prompts to connect Threads to Uncanny Automator.

After allowing the connection, you will be returned to your website, and you can start using the Threads integration in your Automator recipes.

Step 3: Connect to OpenAI

Next, we need to connect OpenAI, which you’ll use to generate the content for your social posts on Threads.

While still on the App integrations page in Uncanny Automator, scroll up to ‘OpenAI’ in the menu on the left. Then, follow the ‘Setup instructions’ by clicking the button. This will walk you through the process of connecting your OpenAI account to Uncanny Automator.

Make sure that your OpenAI API account has been funded (this is different from a ChatGPT account) and that there’s a balance available so that you can access the latest GPT models. 

After generating and copying your API secret key, paste it into the ‘Secret key’ field and click ‘Connect OpenAI account’.

Step 4: Create a Trigger to Post From WordPress to Threads

Now that the Threads and OpenAI accounts are connected, we can create the automation that will automate our Threads posting. In Uncanny Automator, this is known as a “recipe”.

On my website, one of my objectives with Automator and Threads is to automatically share summaries of new blog posts with my followers on Threads.

So, that’s what we’ll be covering in this recipe example: an automated workflow that is started whenever a new blog post is published (the “trigger”) that generates suitable content for a social post that is then shared on Threads (the “actions”).

Once the recipe is set up, it will run automatically for all future blog posts.

To create this recipe, you need to go to Automator » Add new recipe.

Uncanny Automator offers a choice of recipe types.

Because this recipe will start when a WordPress user publishes a new blog post, it will always be linked to an account (the account linked to the user publishing the post). So, choose ‘Logged-in users’ and click ‘Confirm’.

Choose a title for the recipe and enter it. For this example, we’ll use ‘Share new blog posts on Threads’.

In the Trigger section, you need to choose ‘WordPress’ because the recipe will run when an activity happens on WordPress (in this case, when a user publishes a post).

In the list of available WordPress triggers, you need to choose ‘A user publishes a post’.

Just click on it to select it

We want to make sure that the recipe runs for blog posts only, so it’s important to narrow the scope of the trigger to the ‘Post’ section in the ‘Post type’ field.

After selecting the post type, simply click ‘Save’ in the trigger.

Step 5: Set Up Actions for Posting to Threads From WordPress

We need to add actions to the recipe next, which define what happens when new blog posts are published.

To get started, click the ‘Add action’ button in the ‘Actions’ section of the recipe.

The OpenAI action must be added first, because it will generate the content to share on Threads. The order of actions in a recipe is important since we need to use the output of the first action in the second action.

Choose the ‘OpenAI’ integration to see a list of possible actions.

We’ll use the ‘Use a prompt to generate text with the GPT model’.

This is because it provides the most flexibility and model options.

Inside the OpenAI action, several fields are required, and others are optional.

Here’s an outline of how we’ll use the fields in this recipe:

• Model: To keep costs down but still return high-quality output, we’ll use the gpt-4o-mini model. OpenAI models change periodically, so you may not see this model as available.
• Temperature: A value of ‘0.5’ balances creativity with a focused response.
• Maximum length: Blog posts on many websites are typically under 2,000 words. We’ll use ‘4000’ tokens as a safe upper limit (and also to keep costs a bit lower).
• System message: We won’t use one for this example.
• Prompt: These are the instructions we’re sending to the OpenAI model that will yield a response. 

Writing a great prompt is perhaps the hardest part of this recipe. It should include clear instructions for OpenAI so that it understands exactly what to do.

Ensure that it also understands that the response will be posted as-is to social media and won’t be reviewed by a human.

Here’s a basic prompt that we might use for this purpose:

You may also want to see this roundup of the best ChatGPT prompts for bloggers, marketers, and social media for more inspiration.

In the image above, you will notice some dynamic values identified by grey oval shapes. These are called ‘tokens’, and they’re used in Uncanny Automator recipes to add dynamic data.

In this example, we’re pulling in records related to whichever post triggered this recipe. 

Start by adding the prompt you want to use into the ‘Prompt’ text area in the action.

Then, to add the tokens you need, you must click the asterisk (*) icon to the right of the ‘Prompt’ field.

Clicking the asterisk shows all available tokens for the action, grouped by token type.

After adding the post title, you have to move your cursor to the location in the prompt where you want to populate the post body.

Next, click the asterisk again to choose a token, and this time choose ‘Post content (raw)’ from the tokens in the ‘A user publishes a post’ list. 

Once your prompt is set up with your instructions, click ‘Save’ in the action.

That’s all we need to do for that section.

Next, we need the Threads action to take the response from OpenAI and post it to our Threads account.

So, we need to click on ‘Add action’.

Next, choose the ‘Threads’ integration.

You can just click to select it from the list of integrations.

You have to choose the ‘Create a thread post’ action to add it to the recipe.

Click to select it.

The action requires the ‘Content’ for the post first, so we’ll click on the asterisk again to choose tokens for our post body. 

Since we want to use the OpenAI response primarily in the body, just expand the OpenAI action tokens section and choose the ‘Response’ token.

We also want to include the URL of the post in the body.

So, consider adding some text and then a token for the post URL (from the trigger) to the body as well.

In the ‘Image URL or Media library ID’, you need to click the asterisk to show a list of available tokens.

In the ‘Trigger’ section, expand ‘A user publishes a post’ and choose the ‘Post featured image URL’ token.

Assuming that your post has a featured image, completing this step will include the image in your Threads post.

Now that you’ve followed all these steps, your ‘Create a thread post’ action should end up looking something like this:

To save your changes, just click ‘Save’ in the action.

The recipe isn’t live yet, but we have added the triggers and actions that we need for the automation.

To take the recipe live, you need to look for the ‘Draft’ toggle on the right side of the page and click it so that it says ‘Live’.

Once the recipe is live and the switch is a solid blue, all new blog articles will generate posts on Threads automatically!

For example, on my website, this recipe runs about 4 times per month as new posts are published about buying and selling secondhand clothing.

Posting to Threads manually previously took me about 15 minutes per post, so taking 20 minutes to set up this one recipe saves our organization approximately 12 hours per year!

If your business posts more frequently, then this automated workflow can save you even more time and let you invest your time more productively instead.

Bonus: How to Publish Automated, Recurring Posts on Threads

With the Pro version of Uncanny Automator, you get more triggers and actions, unlimited posting, and lots of additional features.

One of those extra features is the Schedule integration, which allows recipes to run automatically on a recurring basis. 

For instance, we use a recipe with the Schedule integration as a trigger to post content automatically on Threads. Every few days, we share thrifting and resale tips on our Threads profile. This allows us to generate content automatically and engage with our users without any extra manual work.

Here’s what the Trigger part of the recipe looks like:

And here is the first part of the Actions section.

It has the OpenAI prompt to create the content for the Threads post.

Finally, this is the final Action.

It actually posts this content to Threads.

This recipe won’t work for all industries, of course, but it’s a useful example of how you can generate and post social content automatically. This type of recipe will also become a lot more useful when the OpenAI API supports external sources and calling URLs directly. That way you can pull content directly from your website.

We hope this article helped you learn how to automate posting to Threads from your WordPress website. You may also wish to see our post on how to add your social media feeds to WordPress or our expert pick of the best social media plugins for WordPress.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Automatically Post to Threads From WordPress first appeared on WPBeginner.

“How do I make this page private for members only?” That’s one of the most common questions I get asked by my friends who use WordPress. I remember asking the same question myself when we were building our video membership site at WPBeginner.

Luckily, it’s surprisingly easy to restrict page access to logged-in users in WordPress. You don’t need to hire a developer or learn complex coding. As long as you have the right plugin, you can set it all up in almost no time.

After helping different website owners solve this exact problem, I’ve narrowed it down to 2 foolproof methods that work for any WordPress site. Let me show you how to make WordPress login required to view a page or even your entire website.

When Should You Require Users to Log In to View a Page?

Not every page on your website needs to be locked, but in some cases, requiring users to log in is the best way to protect your content.

Here are a few situations where requiring user login is a good idea:

• ✅ Membership Sites & Online Courses – If you offer exclusive content, tutorials, or training materials, then requiring a login ensures only paying members can access your premium content.
• ✅ Private Client Portals – If you are sharing confidential documents, project updates, or invoices in client portals, then restricting access keeps sensitive information secure.
• ✅ Exclusive Blog Content – Some websites offer premium articles, guides, or research reports to registered users or subscribers only. This can help grow your email list and boost engagement.
• ✅ Community Forums & Discussion Boards – If you run a members-only forum, then requiring login helps keep the conversation private and relevant to your audience.
• ✅ Company Intranet & Team Resources – Businesses often use WordPress to share internal documents, training materials, or announcements with employees. Requiring login for access keeps this information secure.

If any of these apply to your site, then setting up a login requirement is a smart move.

Now, let’s take a look at 2 easy ways to require login to view a page in WordPress. I’ll show you how to do this with both specific pages and all pages.

You can use the quick links below to jump to the method you want to use:

Method 1: Require Login to View a Page in WordPress With MemberPress (For Specific Pages & Posts)

If you’re looking for an easy and powerful way to restrict access to specific pages or posts, then MemberPress is a great choice.

With MemberPress, you can easily control who gets access to your content, whether it’s for members, subscribers, or paying customers. It allows you to create a powerful membership website that fits your specific needs.

In my opinion, it’s the best content protection plugin for WordPress. It makes it super simple to require users to log in before viewing a page.

At WPBeginner, we used MemberPress to create our free video membership website where only subscribers can access the lessons. For details, see this guide on how WPBeginner uses a free video membership site to grow our email list.

Now, to get started, you’ll need to install and activate the MemberPress plugin. For step-by-step instructions, see our tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Once you’ve activated the plugin, head over to the MemberPress » Settings page to enter your license key. You can get this information in your account area on the MemberPress website.

Then, you need to switch to the ‘Payments’ tab to add a payment gateway. The plugin comes with built-in support for PayPal and Stripe.

Go ahead and click the ‘+ Add Payment Method’ button and choose the gateway of your choice. If you need step-by-step instructions, see this tutorial on how to accept Stripe payments in WordPress.

Once you have set up your payment methods, you will need to create different membership levels. With each membership, you can specify the level of access a user has for viewing restricted content.

To get started, go to the MemberPress » Memberships page from the WordPress admin panel and click the ‘Add New’ button.

This will open the membership editor, where you’ll need to add a name and description for your membership.

Then, set the price and expiration for your membership plan. For instance, you can select the billing type as recurring or one-time and choose the interval to be yearly, monthly, weekly, or custom.

If you are new to using MemberPress, then you can check out WPBeginner’s ultimate guide to creating a membership website for more instructions.

After you’re happy with your membership plan, click the ‘Publish’ button to store your settings. You can now repeat the process to add as many membership levels as you like.

Next, you have to restrict access to your content so that only logged-in users can view it. To do this, head over to the MemberPress » Rules page from the WordPress dashboard.

Here, click on the ‘Add New’ button at the top.

This will take you to a new screen, where you must choose the ‘A Single Page’ option from the ‘Protected Content’ dropdown menu.

Next, enter the slug (URL) of the page where you want to require users to log in before being able to view the content.

Note: Although using MemberPress is ideal for having granular control over restricted content, you can also choose the ‘All Pages’ option from the dropdown menu to require WordPress login for all pages on your site.

Now, you need to set a condition for the kind of members who can view this page.

To do this, select ‘Member’ from the dropdown menu and type ‘logged in’ in the field next to it. This means that anyone with the Member user role can access this content once they log in.

After that, scroll down to the ‘Unauthorized Access’ section and choose the ‘Show’ option for the login form from the dropdown.

Then, click the ‘Save Rule’ and ‘Publish’ buttons at the top.

At this point, you’ll need to create the login page that users will see when they try to access your restricted content.

To do this, head over to Pages » Add New Page from the WordPress admin sidebar.

This will open the block editor, where you can customize the page. Once here, I recommend giving the page a descriptive title, like ‘Unauthorized’ or ‘Login Here,’ to make it clear to users why they are seeing the page.

Below the title, you might also want to add a simple message like “You cannot view this page because you haven’t logged in.”

Next, click the ‘Add Block’ (+) button and choose the ‘Login Form’ block.

Wondering where this handy block came from? MemberPress creates it automatically, so you don’t have to. This is just another perk of using the plugin.

Adding the login form here allows users to sign in quickly so they can view your exclusive page.

Once you’ve added the login block to your page, I highly recommend including a link to your main signup or pricing page using the link icon in the toolbar. This gives visitors a clear next step if they’re not members yet.

You can add a short, friendly message along with the link to encourage signups — something like: “New here? Visit our Sign Up Page to choose your membership plan.”

Make sure your message is clear, inviting, and matches the tone of the site. If you’re not sure how to insert a link, see our step-by-step tutorial on how to add a link in WordPress.

When you’re done with your changes, click the ‘Publish’ button in the top right corner of your editor to make your login page live.

Now, copy the URL of your new login page. You’ll need it in a moment.

Visit MemberPress » Settings » Pages from your admin sidebar and scroll down to the ‘Unauthorized Access’ section.

Now, simply check the ‘Redirect unauthorized visitors to a specific URL’ option.

Then, add the URL for the published page that you copied earlier and click the ‘Update Options’ button to save your changes.

Now, when users try to visit your page with exclusive content without logging in, they will be automatically redirected to the ‘Unauthorized’ page.

Here, they can log in to view the locked content on this page.

If a new visitor lands on this page, they can simply click the signup link to be taken directly to your registration or membership plans page.

Now that your ‘Unauthorized’ page is set up with clear login and signup links, it’s easy for visitors to take action — whether they are returning users or new to your site.

But what if you want to go a step further and give new visitors a glimpse of what they’re missing if they don’t sign up? That’s where MemberPress really shines.

It lets you go beyond simply locking pages. You can actually show a snippet or preview of your content using the Excerpts feature.

This is perfect for teasing blog posts, lessons, or gated resources.

For example, you might display the first few paragraphs of an article to everyone, but then prompt them to register or upgrade their plan to continue reading.

This approach not only improves user experience but can also boost your conversions since visitors get to see the value of your content before signing up.

For more information about this feature, see our guide on how to create paywall options in WordPress (with preview options).

Method 2: Require Login to View All Pages in WordPress With My Private Site (For All Pages & Posts)

If you are looking for a free and simple way to restrict access to your entire website, then using My Private Site is a great option.

This free plugin locks down your WordPress site, requiring users to log in before they can view any page. However, keep in mind that it doesn’t allow you to choose which pages you want to make private, so it won’t be suitable unless you want to require login for your entire website.

First, you need to install and activate the My Private Site plugin. For details, see this tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

After you activate the plugin, you need to head over to the My Private Site » Site Privacy page from the WordPress dashboard and check the ‘Enable login privacy’ box.

Then, click the ‘Save Privacy Status’ button to store your changes. Now, users will need to log in to view any page on your website.

Next, go to the ‘Landing Page’ section. This is where you decide where users should be redirected after they log in.

You can choose to return them to the same URL, so they land back on the page they were trying to access. Alternatively, you can redirect them to the home page. You can also send users to the WordPress dashboard after they log in.

If none of those options work for you, then you can set a custom URL instead. This way, you can redirect users to a specific page, like a welcome page or members-only content area.

Make sure to click the ‘Save Landing Page’ button to store your changes.

After that, switch to the ‘Home Page’ tab.

Here, you can check the ‘Allow site home page to remain accessible without requiring login’ box if you want the home page to remain accessible to everyone.

Then, click the ‘Make Page Public’ button.

Now, when you visit your website, your home page will be visible to everyone.

However, when users try to access any other page without logging in, they will be taken to the default WordPress login page, where they can add their details.

Related Guides for Membership Sites & User Login

Looking for more tips and tricks to manage your membership site or user login pages? Check out these useful guides below:

• How to Create a Client Portal in WordPress (Easy Way)
• How to Add a Custom Login URL in WordPress (Step by Step)
• How to Customize the WordPress Reset Password Page
• How to Restrict Content to Registered Users in WordPress
• How and Why You Should Limit Login Attempts in WordPress
• How to Add a Login Form in Your WordPress Sidebar

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Require Login to View a Page in WordPress (2 Easy Ways) first appeared on WPBeginner.

When I first tried to add podcast episodes to my WordPress website, I quickly realized that embedding them from Apple Podcasts wasn’t as straightforward as I’d hoped. Like many of you, I wanted a simple solution that wouldn’t require coding knowledge.

Through trial and error (and plenty of coffee), I discovered several different methods for embedding Apple Podcasts in WordPress. And by testing them all out, I found the best solutions for podcasters and other WordPress users.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps you need to embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress, ensuring your audio content looks great and works perfectly on any device.

Whether you’re sharing your own show or featuring episodes from others, these methods make it easy to display an attractive, functional podcast player.

Why Embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress?

Apple Podcasts is one of the top platforms for discovering and listening to podcasts on iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices.

If you have an audio show on Apple Podcasts, then embedding episodes on your WordPress site is a great way to promote your production and grow your audience.

Instead of linking out or using a generic player, you can display your episodes right on your podcast website, where listeners can instantly hit play.

When you embed your show:

• 🎧 Visitors can listen without leaving your site.
• 📈 You increase time on site and boost engagement.
• 🌟 Your podcast stays on-brand by living alongside your other content.
• ☑ Your podcast website becomes a central hub to promote your show, share bonus content, and grow your audience on your own terms.

Perhaps most importantly, any first-time website visitors who discover your brand or business will immediately know about your podcast. This can help you gain tons of new listeners.

Even if you’re not embedding your own show, featuring Apple Podcasts on your website is a great way to share your favorite podcast episodes or curate recommendations.

For example, if you’re a blogger, then you might include relevant episodes to enrich your articles or support key points. Meanwhile, businesses and authors can feature podcast appearances as social proof.

Additionally, online course creators could use embedded interviews or discussions as bonus material for students.

How to Embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress

Now that you know why embedding Apple Podcasts in WordPress is a smart move, I’ll walk you through 2 easy ways to do it – no technical skills required.

You can use the quick link below to jump to the different methods:

Ready? Let’s get started.

Method 1: Embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress Using the Custom HTML Block

This method works well if you’re using the WordPress block editor and want a quick, free way to embed an Apple Podcasts episode.

You don’t need to install any plugins – just copy the embed code from Apple Podcasts and paste it into a ‘Custom HTML’ block.

That said, please note that some themes may style the embedded podcast player differently. So be sure to preview how it looks on mobile and desktop.

Step 1: Copying the Apple Podcast Embed Code

First, let’s head over to the Apple Podcasts site. You can do this on any browser — no need to use iTunes or the Apple Podcasts app.

Next, use the ‘Search’ bar in the left-hand panel to look for the podcast you want to feature. You can search by podcast title, episode name, and host name.

For example, I looked for a show called ‘The Climate Question.’

Once you find what you’re looking for, click on the relevant search result to open the show or episode.

On the podcast page, click the three-dot menu next to the ‘+ Follow’ button.

From the dropdown, go ahead and select ‘Copy Embed.’

Apple Podcasts will automatically copy the show’s embed code to your clipboard.

If you want to embed a specific episode, then you can scroll down the show page to the ‘Episodes’ list.

Give the three-dot menu in the episode section a click. Then, hit the ‘Copy Embed Code’ button.

Alternatively, you can click on a specific episode title.

This will take you to the episode’s page, where you can see a brief description of what the episode is about. You’ll also find links to social media pages, an email address for inquiries, the episode’s content rating (like Clean or Explicit), and details about the host.

Once there, just click the three-dot menu next to the ‘Play’ button and select ‘Copy Embed’ from the dropdown.

With that done, you have the episode’s embed code copied to your clipboard.

Step 2: Add the Apple Podcast Embed Code to WordPress

Now that you have the Apple Podcasts embed code, it’s time to add it to your WordPress website.

You can embed the player on any post or page. For this tutorial, I’ll show you how to embed it in a blog post using the block editor.

From your WordPress admin area, go to Posts » Add New or open an existing post where you want to add the podcast.

In the block editor, click the ‘+’ button to add a block.

Then, type ‘Custom HTML’ into the search bar and select the ‘Custom HTML’ block.

Paste the Apple Podcasts embed code you copied earlier into the block.

It should look something like this:

If you want to see how the Apple Podcasts player will look on the front end, select the HTML block and click the ‘Preview’ tab in the toolbar.

This will load the front-end preview of the player in the content editor.

If the embedded player looks good, go ahead and click ‘Publish’ (or ‘Update’ if you’re editing an existing post).

Now, your visitors can listen to Apple Podcasts directly from your site.

It’s that simple!

Method 2: Embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress Using EmbedPress

The Custom HTML block is a great free option, but it can feel a bit clunky, especially if you’re not comfortable working with code.

On the other hand, EmbedPress offers more streamlined embedding experience. With EmbedPress, you just need to paste the Apple Podcasts URL into the EmbedPress block, and it instantly shows a mobile-friendly player in your content.

Step 1: Get the EmbedPress Pro Plugin

To embed Apple Podcasts using EmbedPress, you’ll need the Pro version of the plugin.

You can visit the WPDeveloper website and sign up for a Pro account. Then, choose a plan based on how many sites you want to use it on.

After signing up, you’ll be redirected to your EmbedPress dashboard, where you’ll find:

• A download link for the EmbedPress Pro .zip file.
• Your license key for activating the plugin.

You can download the .zip file and keep the tab open, as you’ll need the license key in the next step.

Step 2: Install EmbedPress Pro and Activate the License Key

Once you’ve downloaded the EmbedPress Pro .zip file from your account dashboard, it’s time to install it on your WordPress site.

In your WordPress admin area, go to Plugins » Add New.

Then, you can click the ‘Upload Plugin’ button at the top.

Choose the .zip file you downloaded from EmbedPress.

Then, click the ‘Install Now’ button followed by ‘Activate.’ For more detailed instructions, you can go to our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

The next step is to activate the premium plugin using your license key. To do this, go to EmbedPress » License in your WordPress dashboard.

Here, you will need to paste your license key (which you can find in your WPDeveloper dashboard) and click ‘Activate License.’

At this point, a verification code will be sent to the email address you used to purchase EmbedPress Pro.

Simply open the email, copy the verification code, and then return to this page to enter it in the new box that appears below the license key box. Then, hit ‘Verify.’

Once you activate the plugin, you’ll unlock support for premium platforms, including Apple Podcasts, and gain access to extra customization features.

Step 3: Copy the Apple Podcast URL

To embed Apple Podcasts into WordPress using EmbedPress, you’ll need the correct URL for the entire show or a specific episode.

Let’s say you want to copy a show link.

To do this, go to Apple Podcasts and use the search bar to find the show or episode you want to feature.

For example, I searched for ‘The Psychology of Your 20s.’

In the search results, click on the podcast name to open the show’s main page.

Then, click the three-dot button next to the ‘+ Follow’ button to expand the menu.

Now, go ahead and click the ‘Copy Link’ button to get the link for the show.

Apple Podcasts will then automatically copy the link to your clipboard.

Now, to copy a single episode link, scroll through the list of available episodes in the Apple Podcasts show.

Once you find what you’re looking for, click on the episode’s three-dot button and click the ‘Copy Link’ button.

Want to see more details about the episode?

Just click on the episode section to open its page. There, you’ll find a short description of the episode, links to social media pages, an email address for inquiries, the content rating (like Clean or Explicit), and information about the host.

From the episode’s individual page, click the three-dot button next to ‘Play.’

Then, select ‘Copy Link’ to get the episode’s link.

Alternatively, you can copy the show’s or episode’s URL directly from your browser’s address bar.

This saves you from having to find the three-dot menu and click the ‘Copy Link’ button.

Just make sure you’re right where you want to be: a show or a specific episode.

Step 4: Add the Apple Podcast URL to WordPress Using the EmbedPress Block

Next, it’s time to embed your podcast using the EmbedPress plugin.

You can add it to any page or post, but in this example, I’ll show you how to do it in a WordPress blog post.

From your WordPress dashboard, go to Posts » Add New or open an existing post.

In the block editor, you can click the ‘+’ button.

Then, search for the EmbedPress block.

Just select the block when it appears, and WordPress will add it to your content editor.

Next, simply paste the URL you copied before into the EmbedPress block.

Don’t forget to click the ‘Embed’ button or press ‘Enter.’

EmbedPress will instantly fetch and display the Apple Podcasts player right inside your editor.

You can adjust the player’s appearance right inside the ‘Block’ tab.

In the ‘General’ section, just set the width and height to control the size of the embedded player.

You can also toggle ‘Social Share’ to add social share buttons for Facebook, X (Twitter), and more to your Apple Podcasts embed.

This lets visitors easily share the episode on their social media accounts.

In addition, EmbedPress Pro includes monetization and content protection tools. You can find them in the ‘Ads Settings’ and ‘Content Protection’ sections in the ‘Block’ tab:

• Ads Settings: This allows you to add video or image ads to your embeds, with control over size, timing, and skip options.

• Content Protection: Allows you to restrict access by user role or password to keep your embedded content secure.

You can configure these settings as needed.

Once you’re happy with how the Apple Podcasts embed looks, just click ‘Publish’ or ‘Update’ to make it live.

Your visitors can now listen to the show directly from your site — and even share it on social media with a single click.

Bonus Tips and Ideas to Grow Your Podcast

Embedding your Apple Podcasts in WordPress is just the beginning.

Here are some easy ways to grow your podcast audience and keep listeners coming back:

• Run a giveaway. Want more subscribers or podcast reviews? With RafflePress, you can create giveaways that reward people for actions like subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing an episode on social media. See our guide on how to run a giveaway for more details.
• Invite guest speakers. Featuring creators or experts in your podcast niche can bring fresh insights and help you reach new listeners.
• Add show notes and transcripts. These can help improve SEO, make your episodes easier to skim, and enhance accessibility for users who prefer reading. See our pick of the best transcription services for more details.
• Grow your email list. This will allow you to contact listeners to let them know about new episodes, promotions, and any other information. You can display a newsletter signup form below your podcast player or in popups on your podcast website. For details, see our guide on how to grow your email list.
• Create a membership site around your podcast. You can use MemberPress to offer exclusive content like bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes clips, or downloadable resources. For details, see our guide on how to create a membership website.

These small touches can go a long way in building a loyal podcast community. 🌐

FAQs About Embedding Apple Podcasts in WordPress

Still have questions? Here are some common questions I get from readers looking to feature Apple Podcasts on their WordPress sites:

Can you embed a podcast into a WordPress website?

Yes, you can! WordPress supports both HTML embed codes and direct URLs for many podcast platforms. That means you can easily display podcast episodes using built-in blocks or plugins – no coding required.

How do you embed Apple Podcasts into a website?

The easiest way is to copy the embed code directly from Apple Podcasts and paste it into a Custom HTML block in WordPress.

Alternatively, you can use a plugin like EmbedPress, which lets you embed Apple Podcasts by simply pasting the episode URL.

Do I need a website for my podcast?

While it’s not required, having your own website gives you more control over your content, branding, and audience. You can promote episodes, collect emails, add show notes, and even improve SEO to reach more listeners. For details, see our guide on how to create a podcast.

Is WordPress a good option for a podcast website?

Yes, WordPress is a highly adaptable, beginner-friendly platform that supports a wide range of podcast plugins and themes. WordPress makes it easy to manage and promote your podcast in one place, whether you’re just starting out or growing your show.

I hope this guide has helped you learn how to embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress. Next up, you can check out our guide on how to start a podcast or our expert picks of the best podcast hosting.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Embed Apple Podcasts in WordPress (2 Easy Methods) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Many business owners feel stuck with HubSpot because they worry about losing their content, breaking their SEO rankings, or disrupting their email marketing. These are valid concerns – I had the same worries when I decided to migrate one of my HubSpot sites to WordPress.

The good news is that moving from HubSpot to WordPress is completely doable with the right approach. All you need is to follow the right steps in the right order.

Let me show you exactly how to move your site from HubSpot to WordPress while protecting your content, preserving your SEO rankings, and keeping your sanity intact.

Why Move Your Blog From HubSpot to WordPress?

Most people start using HubSpot because it is a powerful customer relationship manager (CRM) with marketing automation.

They tend to be really happy with it as a CRM, which doesn’t surprise me, as I love it myself. I even recommend it! See my detailed HubSpot review for more information.

However, what often happens is people start using the default blogging feature in HubSpot simply because it’s convenient. Then, they end up feeling limited.

I’ve worked with clients who started blogging on HubSpot and eventually felt the same way.

Now, I’ll be honest. HubSpot’s content management system is useful for landing pages and integrated marketing campaigns. But for blogging specifically? WordPress comes out on top.

Just making a simple design tweak or changing the layout of a post on HubSpot can feel like navigating a maze.

WordPress, on the other hand, is built for content. It started as a blogging platform and evolved into a powerhouse.

So, if blogging is a core part of your strategy, and you’re feeling a bit constrained by HubSpot, then WordPress can be super refreshing. You’ll get greater simplicity but more flexibility, more design control, and a whole lot more options to grow your blog the way you want.

Worried you won’t get to keep using all of HubSpot’s other powerful CRM features? The good news is that WordPress integrates seamlessly with the platform, so that won’t be an issue.

What to Expect When Migrating From HubSpot to WordPress

With any significant change, it’s helpful to know what lies ahead. Here is a brief roadmap of the journey we will take together:

• First, we’ll get prepared. Imagine it as the preparation phase when you export your content from HubSpot and set up your new WordPress environment.

• Then comes the actual migration. We’ll guide you through moving your valuable blog posts and important pages, and all the images that make your blog visually engaging.

• Next, we’ll focus on maintaining your SEO. This is like making sure your mail is properly forwarded when you move. We’ll help you set up permalinks and redirects to avoid broken links and maintain your search engine rankings.

• Finally, we’ll cover post-migration tasks. Think of this as settling into your new WordPress home. We’ll recommend some essential plugins and learning resources to help you get the most from WordPress.

All that said, you’re probably ready to move your site from HubSpot to WordPress! Here’s how you can do it step by step:

I’ll walk you through the entire process so you’ll be able to follow along even if you’re a beginner. But, if you change your mind at any time, you can always jump to the alternative option – which is getting help from the professionals.

Step 1. Export Your HubSpot Blog Content

Before you even think about touching anything in HubSpot, the first thing you’ll need to do is export your essential content. Later in this tutorial, you will import this content into WordPress.

It’s also wise to back up the link structure of your website. I’ll show you how to do both.

Exporting Your HubSpot Blog Content

The most important step in your WordPress migration is exporting your HubSpot blog content. Luckily, HubSpot makes it pretty easy to export your blog posts in a way you can import into WordPress.

Simply go to your HubSpot account and find your blog content at Content » Blog.

Now look for the ‘Export blog posts’ option on the ‘Actions’ drop-down menu.

This option will let you export your posts as a .CSV or Excel (XLS or XLSX) file. I personally like using the .CSV option because it can be easily imported into WordPress.

Once your blog has been exported, you will receive a link to the .CSV file in your email. You will have 90 days to download the file before it expires.

Exporting your blog posts like this is a great starting point because you can easily import them into your new WordPress website.

However, the export only includes your blog content, and not other pages like landing pages or sales pages. Later in this article, I’ll show you how to recreate those pages manually.

Backing Up Your Link Structure

Backing up your blog’s link structure is super important for SEO.

For this, you’ll need to gather a list of all the web addresses (URLs) from your HubSpot blog. This is important because we’ll use this list to create redirects. Redirects help maintain the SEO benefits you’ve built up over time, even after moving to WordPress.

For this, I like using a browser extension called Link Klipper, because it’s super handy. It’s also free and works with Chrome and compatible browsers.

To get started, install Link Klipper. Then, go to your HubSpot blog homepage. Click the Link Klipper icon in your browser toolbar and choose ‘Extract All Links.’

This will quickly grab all the links on that page and download them as a .CSV file. When you open this file in Excel or Google Sheets, you will see a list of your blog URLs.

Now, I recommend using Link Klipper as a quick and easy way to grab URLs. However, you can also use an online sitemap generator like XML-Sitemaps.com. This tool crawls your website and creates a list of URLs, which you can then export.

Sitemap generators can sometimes find more URLs than Link Klipper, as they crawl your entire site structure. XML-Sitemaps will generate the usual XML sitemaps, but also create a text file called urllist.txt containing all the URLs that you can easily use when creating redirects.

With your blog content, pages, and URLs exported, you’ve done a great job! You have a safety net and a set of files that can be imported into WordPress.

Step 2. Installing and Setting Up WordPress

You need hosting to run a WordPress website. It’s non-negotiable since it provides your site with the resources it needs to be online.

A good hosting provider is like a reliable landlord – you want them to be dependable and keep things running smoothly.

In short, WordPress hosting is where all your WordPress content and files will live. It’s what makes your blog accessible to the world.

Now, you might be thinking, ‘Can’t I just install WordPress on my current HubSpot hosting?’ Unfortunately, no. HubSpot is a closed platform. You can’t install WordPress on HubSpot.

So, you’ll need to get new hosting specifically for your WordPress blog. If you’re new to WordPress or just want a straightforward experience, I recommend Bluehost.

Right now, they’re offering a deal for WPBeginner readers that includes a free domain name and a huge discount on hosting. You can get started for just $1.99 a month.

For this guide, just to show you the general process, I’ll use screenshots from Bluehost. But honestly, the steps for most good WordPress hosts are pretty similar.

You can get started by visiting the Bluehost website and clicking the ‘Get Started Now’ button.

You’ll land on a page showing different hosting plans. For a new blog, especially when you’re just migrating over, the Basic plan is usually perfectly fine.

Choose a plan that fits your needs by clicking the ‘Select’ button.

Next up, you’ll need to set up a domain name. This is your blog’s web address, like www.yourblogname.com.

Now, you probably want to keep using the same domain name you were using with your HubSpot blog, right?

The good news is that you can! Just choose the option that says ‘Use a domain you own’ and type in your current domain name.

Or, if you’re starting fresh with a new domain name, then you can choose to register a new one. This will be free for the first year.

Now, follow the steps to enter your account details and payment info and complete the purchase.

After you sign up, Bluehost (and most WordPress hosting providers) will send you a welcome email with your login details. Keep this email safe! You’ll need it to access your hosting account.

Now, here’s where picking a good WordPress hosting provider pays off.

When you log in to your Bluehost account for the first time, they will automatically install WordPress for you. I love how this streamlines setting up new WordPress websites.

From your Bluehost account page, go to ‘Websites’ then click ‘Edit Site.’

That should take you right into your brand-new WordPress dashboard.

Want a more thorough walkthrough of installing WordPress? My team has created a super detailed WordPress installation tutorial if you’re curious.

Step 3. Setting Up WordPress Theme

Alright, WordPress is installed. Now for the fun part: making it look like your website. That’s where themes come in.

WordPress themes are ready-made design blueprints for your blog. They control everything visual, like the colors, the fonts, and how your blog posts are laid out. It’s like choosing the style of your new house.

WordPress has a huge collection of themes. Seriously, thousands upon thousands. Free themes, paid themes, themes for every niche imaginable.

The WordPress Theme Directory is a good place to start exploring free themes.

But having too many choices can be a bit paralyzing. To help you narrow down the options, my team has created a helpful guide on selecting the perfect WordPress theme.

In my experience, clean, uncluttered designs tend to work best. They look professional, they’re easy for readers to navigate, and they put the focus on your content – which is the most important thing.

Once you’ve chosen and installed a theme, you’ll be ready for the next big step: actually moving your content from HubSpot into WordPress.

Step 4. Importing Your HubSpot Blog Content

This step is like unpacking your moving boxes and arranging your furniture in your new WordPress home. It’s where your blog really starts to take shape.

At this point, you’re going to take the HubSpot content you exported earlier and import it into WordPress. To do that, I’m going to use a plugin called Import any XML, CSV or Excel File to WordPress.

First, you need to install and activate the plugin in your WordPress dashboard. If you need help, see our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Once the plugin is activated, navigate to the All Import » New Import page in your WordPress dashboard. Once there, you should click the ‘Upload a file’ button.

Now, you’ll be asked to choose your import file. Remember the .CSV file you exported from HubSpot in step 1? You need to select it now and then click the ‘Import’ button.

The plugin will automatically detect the type of content you’re importing (usually “Posts” for blog posts). It’s pretty smart like that.

Next, click the ‘Continue to Step 2’ button. You will be shown a preview of the import file and can browse through a spreadsheet view of your posts, one at a time.

Once done, click ‘Continue to Step 3’ at the top or bottom of the page.

Now comes the important part: mapping fields. This is where you tell the plugin how the columns in your .CSV file correspond to fields in WordPress. Don’t worry, you only need to do this step once, not for each post.

For example, you’ll want to drag the column from your import file that contains your blog post titles to the Title field in WordPress.

You can do the same for the post content, tags, and any other data you exported from HubSpot. It’s like matching up labels on boxes when you’re unpacking – you want to put everything in the right place.

Once you’ve mapped all the fields, click ‘Continue to Step 4’ at the bottom of the page.

Next, you’ll be asked to set a unique identifier for your posts. This is used internally by WordPress to keep track of your imported content.

Just click the ‘Auto-detect’ button and the plugin will handle this for you.

Finally, click ‘Confirm & Run Import.’

The plugin will now start importing your content. The time it takes will depend on how much content you’re importing. For a large blog, it might take a few minutes.

Once it’s done, the plugin will show you an ‘Import Complete!’ message.

Now, you can navigate to Posts » All Posts in your WordPress dashboard. You should see your HubSpot blog posts there! Check them out to make sure all your blog posts are imported correctly.

Step 5. Recreating HubSpot Landing Pages in WordPress

Let’s talk about those special pages you might have built in HubSpot – landing pages, sales pages, or other custom pages.

Unfortunately, these often don’t transfer perfectly with a simple import like blog posts do. HubSpot’s page structure and design elements are quite different from WordPress.

So, the best approach for these pages is to recreate them in WordPress. It might sound like extra work, but it gives you the most control over the final result and makes sure everything looks right.

Now, while you could try to rebuild these pages using the standard WordPress block editor, it’s worth considering a dedicated page builder for landing pages.

The block editor is great for creating regular content pages and blog posts. It uses a system of blocks that you can easily add and arrange to build your page. However, for more complex layouts, a page builder plugin like SeedProd offers more advanced features and flexibility.

SeedProd is a drag-and-drop page builder specifically designed for creating landing pages, sales pages, and other marketing-focused pages. It offers a more visual and intuitive way to design intricate layouts without needing to write code.

Whenever I’ve used SeedProd, I’ve found it to be very user-friendly, even if you’re not a design expert. It has a visual interface, tons of pre-designed templates, and all sorts of elements you can just drag and drop onto your page.

The first step, of course, is to install and activate the SeedProd plugin. For details, see our tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Once SeedProd is active, you can go to SeedProd » Landing Pages in your WordPress menu and then click ‘Add New Landing Page.’

SeedProd will then show you a library of templates.

Browse through them and pick a template that looks similar to the HubSpot landing page you want to recreate.

Don’t worry about getting it exactly the same at this stage, you can customize everything later.

Next, give your new page a name and set the URL slug.

Click the ‘Save and Start Editing the Page’ button to open the SeedProd page builder.

Here’s where the fun begins! You’ll see a visual drag-and-drop interface. You can click on any element on the template and edit it – change text, images, colors, fonts, everything.

On the left-hand side, you’ll find a panel with all sorts of elements you can add to your page – headings, text blocks, images, videos, buttons, forms, and much more. Just drag and drop them onto your page to build your layout.

Take your original HubSpot landing page as a reference. Section by section, element by element, recreate it in SeedProd.

For more details, see our tutorial on how to create a landing page in WordPress.

Want to explore other page builder options? Thrive Architect is another excellent page builder plugin for WordPress, and it’s also very visual and drag-and-drop based.

Thrive Architect is particularly strong if you are heavily focused on marketing and sales pages. It’s built by the team behind Thrive Themes, which is known for its conversion-focused tools. It excels at creating high-converting sales pages, opt-in pages, and webinar registration pages.

If your primary goal is to build pages specifically designed to drive conversions and sales, Thrive Architect is a powerful alternative to consider.

Yes, recreating your HubSpot landing pages in WordPress takes a bit of hands-on work. However, it’s the most reliable way to bring those important pages over properly.

And the great news is, using a page builder like SeedProd makes the process much smoother and allows you to build even more powerful and customized landing pages in WordPress.

Step 6. Importing Your HubSpot Images to WordPress

You might notice that after importing your content, your images are still being hosted on HubSpot’s servers. You’ve copied the text over, but the images are still living at their old address.

We need to bring those images into your WordPress Media Library. Why? Because it’s much better to host your images directly within your WordPress website. It’s more reliable, often faster, and gives you more control.

Imagine if HubSpot changed its image hosting structure or, worse case, you decided to close your HubSpot account completely down the line. Your images could disappear!

You’re able to import your images using a fantastic little plugin called Auto Upload Images. Please refer to our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin if you need help.

Note: You may notice that this plugin is outdated, but I tested it for this tutorial, and it was working fine. For details, see this guide on whether you should use outdated plugins.

Once activated, you need to trigger the bulk image import using the WordPress bulk edit feature. Don’t worry, you’re not actually editing anything, but just using the bulk edit to tell WordPress to re-process your posts and pages.

Head over to Posts » All Posts in your WordPress dashboard. Select all the posts where you imported content from HubSpot. You can usually do this by checking the checkbox at the very top of the post list.

Then, in the ‘Bulk actions’ dropdown menu, choose ‘Edit’ and click the ‘Apply’ button.

A bunch of bulk edit options will appear. Don’t panic! You don’t need to change anything here. Just click the blue ‘Update’ button at the bottom.

What this does is tell WordPress to re-save all the selected posts. And that action triggers the Auto Upload Images plugin to kick in.

The plugin will scan the content of each post, look for external image URLs (pointing to HubSpot), and then automatically download each image and import it into your WordPress Media Library.

It will then update the image URLs in your posts to point to the newly imported images in your Media Library.

Next, you need to repeat this exact same process for your Pages. Simply go to Pages » All Pages, select all your pages, choose ‘Edit’ in bulk actions, apply, and then just click ‘Update’.

If you need detailed instructions, then see my tutorial on how to easily import external images in WordPress.

After you’ve done this bulk update for both your posts and pages, go to Media » Library in your WordPress dashboard. You should see all those images from your HubSpot blog and pages in your WordPress Media Library!

Step 7. Pointing Your Domain Name to Your New WordPress Website

If you were already using a custom domain name for your HubSpot blog (like yourblogname.com), then you definitely want to keep using that same domain for your WordPress blog.

Why? Branding, for starters. You want people to find you at the same address. But also, and maybe even more importantly, for SEO.

Search engines have already associated your domain name with your content and authority. Keeping the same domain helps you maintain your search engine rankings.

To make this happen, you need to adjust your domain name settings. Specifically, you’re going to change something called nameservers.

Nameservers are like the internet’s phonebook for domain names. When someone types your domain name into their browser, the nameservers tell the internet where your website is hosted.

Right now, your domain name is likely pointing to HubSpot’s servers, where your HubSpot blog was hosted. We need to update it to point to your new WordPress hosting account.

Your WordPress hosting provider (like Bluehost, Hostinger, or SiteGround) will give you the nameserver information you need. It usually looks like a pair of addresses, something like:

ns1.yourhostingprovider.com
ns2.yourhostingprovider.com

Your hosting provider will have the exact nameservers you need to use.

I usually find this information in my hosting account dashboard, but you can also check the welcome email they sent you when you signed up. If you’re not sure, then their support team can help you out. See the tips in my guide on how to contact WordPress support.

Okay, so where do you actually change these nameserver settings? That’s at your domain name registrar. This is the company where you registered your domain name in the first place.

Sometimes, your domain registrar is the same company as your hosting provider. But often, they are separate. Common domain registrars include companies like Domain.com, Network Solutions, or Namecheap.

You’ll need to log in to your account at your domain registrar. Find the settings for your domain name. Look for something like ‘DNS Settings’, ‘Nameservers’, or ‘Domain Management’.

For example, if your domain is registered with Bluehost, then the nameserver settings in their domain management area will look something like this:

The exact steps vary depending on your domain registrar. But the general idea is always the same: you need to replace the old nameservers (the ones pointing to HubSpot) with the new nameservers provided by your WordPress hosting company.

Our team has written a handy guide on how to easily change domain nameservers at many popular domain registrars if you need more detailed instructions.

Once you’ve updated your nameservers, it takes a little while for these changes to spread across the internet. This is called DNS propagation.

DNS propagation can take anywhere from a few hours to, in rare cases, up to 48 hours. During this time, some people might still see your old HubSpot blog, while others might start seeing your new WordPress blog. This is totally normal, don’t worry!

After DNS propagation is complete, when users enter your domain name into their browsers, they will be automatically directed to your WordPress site at its new hosting location.

Step 8. Setting Up Permalinks and Redirects

You’re in the home stretch now! You’ve moved your content and images and pointed your domain to your new WordPress blog. But there’s another really important step for a smooth migration: setting up permalinks and redirects.

Your HubSpot blog probably had its own way of creating URLs. WordPress, naturally, has its own system too, called permalinks.

And here’s the thing. It’s highly likely that your old HubSpot URLs are different from how WordPress creates URLs by default.

Without proper URL redirection from your old HubSpot blog to your new WordPress site, visitors following the old blog post URLs will encounter 404 errors. These broken links not only frustrate users but also negatively impact your search engine rankings since Google penalizes sites with too many broken links.

To fix this issue, you need to do two key things:

• Set up SEO-friendly permalinks in WordPress so your new URLs are clean and readable.
• Set up redirects to automatically send visitors from your old HubSpot URLs to the correct pages on your new WordPress site. It’s like setting up a forwarding address when you move house.

Let’s start with permalinks.

Setting Up WordPress Permalinks

WordPress gives you control over how your website addresses (URLs) are structured. This is managed through permalink settings.

While you can choose any permalink structure, for the sake of this example, let’s choose ‘Post name’.

‘Post name’ permalinks create clean, easy-to-understand URLs that clearly include the title of your page or blog post. It incorporates keywords from your title, providing an additional SEO advantage and making it readable for people.

For example, instead of a URL that looks like this, which gives no context at all

yourblog.com/?p=123

You get something much nicer and more informative, like:

yourblog.com/your-blog-post-title

See the difference? The second option is much clearer.

Setting this up is quick and easy. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Settings » Permalinks.

You’ll see a section called ‘Common Settings.’ Find the option labeled ‘Post name’ and select it.

Then, just scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the ‘Save Changes’ button.

Done! Permalinks are set up. From now on, WordPress will use the post name structure for all your new blog posts and pages.

Setting Up Redirects From Your Old HubSpot URLs

Now for the redirects, which are extremely important for a smooth migration. Remember that list of old HubSpot URLs you grabbed using Link Klipper way back in the export step? We’re going to put it to good use.

To set up redirects in WordPress without pulling your hair out, I recommend the Redirection plugin. It’s free, it’s powerful, and it makes setting up redirects straightforward.

The first step is to install and activate the Redirection plugin. If you need help, then see our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Once activated, you’ll find the Redirection plugin settings under Tools » Redirection.

In the Redirection plugin interface, you’ll see fields for Source URL and Target URL.

• Source URL is where you enter your old HubSpot URL. But here’s a little trick: you only need to enter the part of the URL after your domain name. For example, if your old HubSpot blog post URL was https://your-hubspot-blog.com/blog/my-awesome-post, then you’d just enter /blog/my-awesome-post.

• Target URL is where you enter the new WordPress URL for the same content. Again, just the part after your domain name. So, if your new WordPress URL for that post is https://your-wordpress-blog.com/my-awesome-post/, then you’d enter /my-awesome-post/.

Make sure the ‘301 – Moved Permanently’ option is selected for the Redirect Type. Using a 301 redirect is important for search engine optimization, or SEO. It signals to search engines that your content has moved permanently to a new address, and it helps you preserve link equity.

Link equity is the SEO ‘value’ or authority your old pages have built up over time, and 301 redirects help transfer that valuable equity to your new WordPress pages, maintaining your search engine ranking.

Finally, click the ‘Add Redirect’ button to save your redirect.

Now, you need to go through your entire list of old HubSpot URLs and repeat these steps for each one. Yes, it can take a bit of time, especially if you have a lot of blog posts. But it’s essential for a smooth transition.

Once you’ve added all your redirects, test them! Type your old HubSpot URLs into your browser and make sure they correctly redirect you to the right pages on your new WordPress site.

Alternative: Using All in One SEO (AIOSEO) for Redirects

Now, if you’re thinking about SEO seriously (and you should!), you might want to consider All in One SEO (AIOSEO). I use this plugin on my own websites, and it’s fantastic.

Yes, it’s a premium plugin, but it’s packed with SEO features to help your blog rank higher – and it includes a really handy Redirection Manager that lets you set up full site redirects.

What I really appreciate is that AIOSEO is an all-in-one SEO powerhouse. Instead of juggling separate plugins for redirects, sitemaps, schema, and everything else SEO-related, AIOSEO puts it all in one place.

Plus, its Redirection Manager is quite powerful and makes setting up even complex redirects straightforward. It’s a real time-saver and keeps my SEO workflow streamlined.

Step 9. Add Your HubSpot CRM to WordPress

Now, if you’re like many HubSpot users, then you’re probably using HubSpot CRM to manage your leads and customer interactions. Good news! You can easily connect your new WordPress blog to your existing HubSpot CRM.

Think of it as keeping the best of both worlds – the flexibility of WordPress for your blog and the robust CRM capabilities of HubSpot.

The official HubSpot plugin lets you connect your WordPress site to your HubSpot account and unlock a bunch of useful features right within your WordPress dashboard.

With the HubSpot plugin, you can:

• Capture leads from your WordPress site: Easily add HubSpot forms to your WordPress pages and blog posts to capture contact information.
• Track website visitors: The plugin adds HubSpot tracking code to your WordPress site, showing how visitors interact with your content and identifying potential leads.
• Access HubSpot CRM tools from WordPress: Get quick access to your HubSpot contacts, deals, and tasks directly from your WordPress admin area.
• Use live chat: Embed your HubSpot live chat widget on your WordPress site to engage with visitors in real time.
• Analyze your marketing performance: View HubSpot analytics dashboards within WordPress to monitor your blog’s performance and lead generation efforts.

Simply install and activate the HubSpot plugin. For more details, see our step-by-step guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Once activated, the plugin will add a new HubSpot menu to your WordPress admin sidebar. This will take you to the setup wizard, where you can click the ‘Sign in here’ link at the top.

Once you have signed in, simply follow the prompts to connect the plugin to your existing HubSpot account.

After connecting, you can explore the HubSpot plugin settings to customize features like form embedding, live chat, and tracking options.

And that’s it! You’ve now integrated your WordPress blog with HubSpot CRM. You can now manage your blog content in WordPress while still making the most of HubSpot’s powerful CRM and marketing tools.

If you’d like a more detailed walkthrough of setting up HubSpot on your WordPress site, then see our guide on how to add a CRM on your WordPress site.

Step 10. Install Essential WordPress Plugins

One of the best things about using WordPress is that you can easily extend your site’s features with plugins.

There are thousands of WordPress plugins available, both free and paid.

At WPBeginner, we put together a guide on how to pick the best plugins for your website. It’s worth a read to learn how to evaluate plugins and pick the right ones for your specific needs.

But to get you off to a flying start, here are a few top plugins we often recommend for almost every new WordPress blog:

• WPForms is a fantastic plugin for creating all sorts of forms – contact forms, surveys, order forms, and more. I use WPForms on my own websites and love how user-friendly it is.
• SeedProd is a drag-and-drop website builder that makes customizing your design a breeze. You can create custom page layouts beyond your theme’s standard options.
• AIOSEO (All in One SEO) is one of the most popular and powerful SEO plugins for WordPress. It helps you optimize your blog for better search engine rankings.
• MonsterInsights makes it easy to understand your blog traffic and visitor behavior. It connects WordPress to Google Analytics and shows you key stats in your dashboard.
• OptinMonster is a powerful toolkit for growing your email list and boosting conversions. It helps you create popups, slide-in forms, and other opt-in forms to capture email addresses.

For even more plugin ideas and recommendations, be sure to check out our comprehensive list of essential WordPress plugins. It’s packed with plugins we use and trust.

Alternative: Get Professional Help to Migrate Your HubSpot Website

Okay, I’ve walked through all the steps to migrate your blog from HubSpot to WordPress. And you know what? For many of you, following these steps will be totally doable!

But let’s be real. Even with a detailed guide, moving a website from HubSpot to WordPress is still quite a technical project. And time-consuming.

Perhaps you’re not super comfortable with the website side of things. Or maybe you’re already juggling a million tasks and just want this migration done quickly, correctly, without headaches.

If that sounds like you, then WPBeginner can help. Our WordPress Website Design service team can design and build you a brand-new, custom WordPress website that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. They can handle the migration of your content from HubSpot, too.

If you’re curious to learn more about these services, or if you just have some questions, then you can easily chat with our support team on our Website Design Services page. They can give you all the details and help you figure out if professional migration help is the right path for you.

Bonus: Learning WordPress

You’ve made the move from HubSpot to the wonderful world of WordPress!

Now, you might be looking at your new WordPress dashboard and thinking, ‘Okay, this is different!’ And you’d be right. WordPress works in its own way, and it has a lot of features and options that might be new to you if you’re coming from HubSpot.

Luckily, I can recommend tons of completely free resources to help you become a WordPress pro in no time. Here are just a few that I think you’ll find super helpful:

• WPBeginner Blog: This is the heart of WPBeginner. Think of it as your go-to library for everything WordPress. You’ll find thousands of easy-to-follow tutorials, guides, and articles.
• WPBeginner Dictionary: WordPress has its own vocabulary! Our dictionary helps you understand all the WordPress terms and jargon.
• WPBeginner Videos: Prefer to learn by watching? Our video tutorials walk you through common WordPress tasks step-by-step, visually.
• WPBeginner YouTube Channel: Even more video help! Our YouTube channel is packed with WordPress tips, tutorials, and how-tos.
• WPBeginner Blueprint: Curious about the tools and plugins we use here at WPBeginner? The Blueprint gives you a peek behind the scenes.
• WPBeginner Deals: Who doesn’t love a good deal? In our Deals section, we gather exclusive discounts and coupons on WordPress themes, plugins, hosting, and more.

So, don’t feel overwhelmed by learning WordPress. With WPBeginner as your guide, you have all the resources you need right at your fingertips. Dive in, explore, and start enjoying the power and flexibility of WordPress!

I hope this tutorial helped you move your site from HubSpot to WordPress. You may also want to see my ultimate WordPress SEO migration checklist for beginners or my expert pick of the best WordPress migration services.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Move Your Site From HubSpot to WordPress (Step by Step) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Do you remember when sharing music on a website meant uploading MP3 files and dealing with clunky audio players? I sure do.

Thankfully, many streaming services have made it easier to share music online, and Spotify is leading the way. As one of the world’s largest music platforms, it offers straightforward embedding options that work well with WordPress.

As a music lover and WordPress user, I decided to look for the most reliable methods for adding Spotify content to WordPress sites. Whether you’re a music reviewer, podcast creator, or just want to share your favorite playlist, I will show you how to embed audio content without touching a single line of code.

In this guide, I’ll show you 2 easy methods to embed Spotify in WordPress. These are great options for sharing a single track, a full album, a podcast episode, or an entire playlist. 🎶

Why Embed Spotify in WordPress?

If you’re a musician or podcaster, then embedding Spotify content on your WordPress website is a powerful way to promote your work and connect with your audience.

Instead of sending visitors away to your Spotify profile, you can feature your music or episodes right where your fans already are – like on your podcasting website or the professional hub for your music.

That said, even if you’re not sharing your own content, adding Spotify embeds can still make your site more engaging. Whether you’re writing music reviews or curating playlists, embedding audio tracks can take your content to the next level.

And here are the types of Spotify content you can embed:

• Single tracks – Perfect for promoting your own music or highlighting a specific song.
• Albums – Great for showcasing full releases, especially for artists or music reviewers.
• Playlists – Share your favorite collections or set the mood with themed playlists.
• Podcasts – Ideal if you host a podcast and want to share episodes on your site.
• Artist profiles – Highlight your own Spotify artist page or feature others you support.

The best part? Spotify comes with easy embed links that you can use in WordPress.

How to Embed Spotify in WordPress

WordPress makes it easy to embed Spotify content right out of the box. You can simply paste a Spotify link into the content editor. WordPress will then automatically turn it into an embedded player within a Spotify block.

In this guide, I’ll cover 2 easy ways to embed Spotify in WordPress:

Both methods let you embed songs, albums, playlists, podcasts, or artist profiles without writing a single line of code!

Method 1: Embed Spotify Using the Spotify Block in WordPress (No Plugin Needed)

This is the easiest method because you just need to add a block in the WordPress block editor. It’s great for adding tracks, playlists, or podcast episodes directly to your posts or pages – no extra plugins needed.

Step 1: Find the Spotify Content Link

First, let’s get the Spotify content link.

You can start by opening the Spotify web player or desktop application to access its content (logging in is optional).

From the ‘Home’ screen, you need to use the ‘Search’ feature to find the content you want to embed. You can search by song title, album title, or artist name.

For example, I looked for Dream, Ivory’s artist page.

Just click on the relevant search result when it appears.

Once inside, you can click the three-dot button next to the ‘Follow’ button on the artist’s profile.

Next, hover over the ‘Share’ option and then click ‘Copy link to artist.’

If you want to embed a single track, then you can click on the three-dot button for a track.

Then, simply hover over the ‘Share’ option and click the ‘Copy Song Link’ button.

To embed a full album, scroll down the artist page to the ‘Discography’ section.

After that, just click on the album you want to share to open it.

You’ll see a three-dot button below the album name; go ahead and click it.

From here, you can hover over ‘Share’ and click ‘Copy Album Link.’

The process is pretty much the same for playlists and podcasts.

Just make sure you’re clicking the right three-dot button depending on whether you’re on a song, album, playlist, show, or artist page.

Step 2: Embed the Spotify Content into WordPress

Now, let’s add the link to your WordPress website.

You can embed Spotify content into any post or page. For this tutorial, I’ll show you how to do it inside a blog post using the WordPress block editor.

From your WordPress dashboard, let’s go to Posts » Add New Post or edit an existing post where you want the Spotify player to appear.

You can just paste the Spotify link straight into the editor. But I will also show you how to add the dedicated Spotify block.

In the editor, click the ‘+’ button to add a block.

Then, simply search for ‘Spotify Embed.’

Once you’ve found the ‘Spotify Embed’ block, give it a click to add it to the editor.

Now, you can paste the Spotify link you copied earlier into the block.

You can then click the ‘Embed’ button or press ‘Enter.’

WordPress will automatically fetch and display a live preview of the embedded player.

Before publishing, you might want to adjust the ‘Media settings.’ You can find this slider in the ‘Block’ tab on the right.

Turning on this setting helps the Spotify player look good on all screen sizes, which can help with mobile-friendly design.

When you’re happy with how the Spotify player looks, you can go ahead and click ‘Publish’ or ‘Update’ to make it live.

Now, when visitors view your post, they’ll see a fully interactive Spotify player they can use to listen to the audio content directly.

Method 2: Embed Spotify Using the EmbedPress Plugin (More Customizable)

This method is ideal if you want more flexibility when embedding Spotify content. The EmbedPress plugin lets you customize how your music, playlists, or podcasts appear on your site without using any code.

You can control the size of the audio player and even make the content shareable on social networks. It’s also suitable if you’re using the classic editor because it doesn’t rely on blocks.

Step 1: Install the EmbedPress Plugin

To get started, you’ll need to install and activate the free EmbedPress plugin.

So, let’s log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Plugins » Add New Plugin.

In the search bar, type ‘EmbedPress,’ then click ‘Install Now’ and ‘Activate’ when it appears.

Need help installing a plugin? Check out this step-by-step guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 3: Copy the Spotify Content URL

For this tutorial, I’m going to show you how to find Spotify playlist and podcast links.

Let’s start by going to the Spotify web player or desktop application. You don’t need to be logged in to your account for this step.

Once inside, you can use the search bar at the top to find the Spotify playlist or podcast you want to embed.

On the results page, scroll down to the ‘Playlist’ section.

After that, go ahead and click on the playlist that you want to embed.

From here, you can click the three-dot button under the playlist name or near the ‘+’ button.

This will expand the menu where you can hover over ‘Share’ and click ‘Copy link to playlist.’

You can also go to an artist page, as they usually have a curated playlist.

For example, I went to Nina Simone’s artist page and scrolled down to find her ‘Artist pick’ playlist.

Once you’ve opened the playlist, just click the three-dot button near the title or the ‘+’ icon.

Then, hover over ‘Share’ and choose ‘Copy link to playlist.’

When it comes to podcasts, the process is pretty similar. Simply start by using the ‘Search’ feature to go to the podcast.

Once inside, you can click the three-dot button, hover over ‘Share,’ and click ‘Copy Show Link.’

If you want to share an episode instead, then you can scroll down the podcast page.

Then, click the ‘Share’ icon next to the episode you want to embed and copy the link.

The process is pretty much the same for songs, albums, and artist pages.

Just make sure you’re clicking the right three-dot button.

Step 4: Add the Spotify URL to WordPress Using the EmbedPress Block

Once you get your link, you can embed Spotify content into any WordPress post or page using the EmbedPress block.

To get started, you can create a new post by navigating to Posts » Add New Post. Alternatively, you can open the post where you want to embed the track, playlist, or podcast.

In the editor, let’s click the ‘+’ icon.

Then, you can go ahead and search for the EmbedPress block.

Once you’ve found the block, simply click on it to add it to the editor.

After that, paste your Spotify link into the block.

Don’t forget to click the ‘Embed’ button or press ‘Enter.’

EmbedPress will then instantly fetch the preview and display it right inside the editor.

Now, you will have access to extra controls for the audio player.

In the right panel, you can find the option to resize the player by adjusting its width and height.

Plus, you can enable social sharing to make your content more discoverable.

With this setting, you can choose whether to show the icons at the top, left, right, or bottom of the Spotify player.

EmbedPress Pro also allows you to change the color of the audio player and add a ‘Follow’ button. This can help you get more Spotify followers directly from your WordPress website.

When you’re done customizing, just click ‘Publish’ or ‘Update’ to make it live.

That’s it! Your Spotify content is now fully ready to go on your WordPress website. 🎧

💡 Note: If you’re using the old Classic Editor, then you can simply paste the Spotify link into the Visual editor.

The EmbedPress plugin will automatically detect the URL and convert it into an embed.

Take It Further: Sell Your Tracks, Albums, or Sample Packs 💿

Embedding your tracks on your website is just one way to get more listeners.

If you’re a musician, then you can also sell your songs directly from your WordPress site — no middlemen, no platform fees. It’s a smart way to keep full control over your music, grow your fanbase, and earn more from every download.

The easiest way to do this is by using a plugin called Easy Digital Downloads.

Unlike general eCommerce plugins, Easy Digital Downloads is built specifically for selling digital products like MP3s. That means no extra setup for shipping or inventory — just the tools you actually need.

You can sell singles, full albums, or even sample packs with features like secure file delivery, discount codes, and customer management built right in.

For detailed instructions, you can see this guide on how to sell music online in WordPress.

Alternatively, if you want to sell physical music, like vinyl or CDs, then you’ll need a full store with shipping, tax, and inventory support. I recommend using WooCommerce because it’s the most popular eCommerce plugin for WordPress and makes it super easy to sell products online.

You can follow this step-by-step guide on how to start an online store to get started.

FAQs Around How to Embed Spotify in WordPress

If you’re just getting started or still have questions about embedding Spotify links, you’re not alone. Here are some common questions I often hear from WordPress users:

How do I embed a Spotify playlist into WordPress?

You can copy the Spotify playlist link and paste it into a Spotify block in the WordPress editor. WordPress will automatically convert it into an embedded player. Alternatively, a premium plugin like EmbedPress gives you more control over the audio player’s look and branding.

How do I add a Spotify podcast to my WordPress site?

You can copy the podcast episode or show link from Spotify and paste it into the Spotify block in the WordPress block editor. It will instantly turn into a playable embed. Using a plugin like EmbedPress will also allow you to control how the audio player looks and get more followers directly from your website.

How do I play background music on a WordPress site?

Most modern browsers limit autoplaying background music to protect the user experience, especially on mobile devices, where unexpected sounds can be intrusive. Similarly, WordPress also doesn’t support autoplay out of the box.

That said, there are more user-friendly ways to share background music:

• Use a plugin with a custom play button – Plugins like HTML5 Audio Player let you add a small play/pause button. You can place it in a header, footer, or floating sidebar so that visitors can choose to start the music.
• Embed Spotify or other music players – Instead of true background music, you can embed a playlist or single track using Spotify or another streaming service. Visitors can click play whenever they’re ready to listen.

I hope this article has helped you learn how to embed Spotify in WordPress and make your music website more interesting. Next, you can check out our guides on how to add MP3 audio files in WordPress or our expert picks of the best WordPress plugins for podcasters.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Embed Spotify in WordPress (2 Easy Methods) first appeared on WPBeginner.

I love publishing articles with lots of screenshots and images in them.

That also means for each article, I had to spend a lot of time writing alt text.

For me, writing alt text is a tedious process. I often push it to the bottom of my to-do list despite knowing how crucial alt texts are for SEO and accessibility.

That’s why I’ve dedicated a lot of time to testing various AI-powered alt text generators on WordPress websites.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best way to automatically generate alt text using AI. I’ve done all the heavy lifting – testing accuracy, comparing results, and identifying the best options – so you can choose the right solution for your website.

The Benefits of Using AI for Generating Image Alt Text

Adding alt text to every image on your website can feel like a never-ending task. Even if you’re using tools like ChatGPT to write the alt text for you, you’ll still need to manually copy and paste the content.

Luckily, AI-powered tools can automate this entire process and allow you to control everything from your WordPress dashboard.

Here’s why using AI for alt text generation can be helpful:

• Saves Time – No more writing alt text for every single image. AI can generate descriptions in seconds, freeing up your time for more important tasks.
• Boosts SEO – AI helps you create descriptive alt text with relevant keywords, which search engines love. This can help your images rank higher in search results.
• Improves Accessibility – AI-generated alt text makes your site more inclusive by providing meaningful descriptions for visually impaired users.
• Handles Large Image Libraries – If you have hundreds (or thousands) of images, AI can process them in bulk, making optimization much easier.
• Maintains Consistency – AI follows a structured approach, ensuring all images have clear and uniform descriptions across your website.

By using AI tools for alt text generation, you can improve your website’s accessibility, SEO, and overall efficiency, all without the extra manual work.

Having said that, let’s take a look at how to easily generate alt text for images with AI.

Method 1: Use AltText.AI to Generate Alt Text for Images (Premium Plugin + Free Trial)

If you are looking for high-quality alt text for your images and have the budget to invest in a premium plugin, then I recommend this method.

AltText.ai is a powerful AI image alt text generator built for bloggers, small business owners, and website owners. It works in up to 130 languages and generates alt text in just seconds.

It comes with a free trial that lets you generate alt text for up to 25 images. After that, you can continue with a paid plan starting at just $5 for 100 image credits, where generating alt text for 1 image uses 1 credit. This makes it an affordable option for anyone managing a media-rich website.

First, you need to visit the AltText.ai website and click the ‘Start Free Trial’ button.

This will take you to a new screen, where you can create your free account by giving your email address, name, and password.

Once you do that, just click the ‘Sign up’ button.

AltText.ai will now create your free account and take you to your dashboard.

From here, head to the ‘Account’ page from the top and switch to the ‘API Keys’ section. Go ahead and click the ‘+ New API Key’ button.

Next, you have to type a name for the API key you plan to create. This name won’t be available publicly and is only for your identification.

Then, click the ‘Create’ button.

The tool will automatically create an API key for you. For now, click the ‘Copy’ button next to the key and store it somewhere safe.

You’ll need it later to use the tool.

Next, head to your WordPress dashboard to install and activate the Alt Text AI plugin. It is a free connector plugin that integrates the AI tool with WordPress seamlessly.

For step-by-step instructions, see this tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Upon plugin activation, visit the AltText.ai » Settings page and add your API key in the ‘API Key’ field. You can also choose your preferred language for alt text generation.

After that, pick a writing style for your alt text from the dropdown menu. You can choose between elaborate, concise, matter-of-fact, standard, and terse.

You can also use AltText.ai to generate image titles, captions, and descriptions. To do this, just check these options in the ‘When alt text is generated for an image’ section.

After that, check the ‘Automatically generate alt text with AltText.ai’ option so the tool will automatically generate alt text whenever you upload an image to the media library.

Next, you have to scroll down and check the ‘Generate alt text using focus keyphrases, if present’ option if you want the AI tool to use SEO phrases in alt text.

Keep in mind that you’ll also need to add a focus keyword using an SEO plugin for this feature to work. For details, you can check out this guide on how to use a focus keyphrase in WordPress.

Similarly, check the ‘Use post title as keywords if SEO keywords not found from plugins’ box so the tool will use post titles in alt text if you haven’t set a focus keyword.

You can then configure the rest of the settings according to your liking. Once you are done, just click the ‘Save Changes’ button.

Now, you need to open the block editor and upload an image using the ‘Image’ block.

This will open the ‘Select or Upload Media’ prompt, where you have to click the ‘Update Alt Text’ button. You can also check the ‘Add SEO Keywords’ option to add them to your alt text.

You can also generate alt text for already uploaded images by visiting the Media » Library page and clicking on an image.

Once the ‘Attachment details’ page opens up, check the ‘Add SEO Keywords’ box and add the keywords you want the tool to prioritize.

Then, click the ‘Update Alt Text’ button to create alt text for your image.

You can now repeat the process for all your images.

However, if you’re looking to save some time, then the plugin also allows bulk generation for alt text. To do this, head over to the AltText.ai » Bulk Generate page from the WordPress dashboard.

At the top, you will see the total number of images along with how many are missing alt text. You can scroll down from here.

Then, if you want to overwrite existing alt text, check the ‘Include images that already have alt text’ option. This ensures AI-generated descriptions replace any previous alt text.

Similarly, if you want to process only images attached to posts, check the ‘Only process images that are attached to posts’ box. This makes the plugin focus on optimizing images used in your content.

Once you’ve selected your preferences, click the ‘Generate Alt Text’ button to start the process.

The AI tool will take about 3-5 minutes to add all the alt text, depending on the number of images, and you will see a success message upon completion.

Go ahead and click the ‘Done’ button to be redirected to the Bulk Generate page. That’s all you need to do!

Method 2: Use a Free AI Plugin to Generate Alt Text, Title, and Caption for Images

If you are looking for a free AI image alt text generator that can also create image titles and captions, then I recommend this method instead.

The free AI for SEO plugin offers a built-in way to improve your image SEO without leaving your site or paying for additional tools.

Important: The plugin only provides 5 free AI credits every day. If you go over that limit, then you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan to continue using the AI features.

First, you need to install and activate the AI for SEO plugin. For details, see this step-by-step tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Upon activation, visit the AI for SEO page from the WordPress dashboard and switch to the ‘Settings’ tab from the left column. Then, scroll down to the ‘Media attributes’ section.

Here, you can choose whether you want the AI to generate alt text, captions, titles, and descriptions for your images. If you prefer not to use a specific feature, then simply uncheck the box next to it.

For instance, if you don’t want the AI to generate captions, then just uncheck that box.

After that, you can also choose a language for your media attributes from the dropdown menu. This will allow the plugin to generate text in the language used on your website.

You can then configure the rest of the settings according to your liking. Finally, click the ‘Save Changes’ button to store them.

Now, head over to the Media » Library page from the WordPress dashboard and choose an image you like.

This will open the ‘Attachment Details’ prompt, where you can click the ‘Generate With AI’ button under the title, caption, alt text, and description fields.

Once you do that, the plugin will use AI to generate alt text, caption, title, and description that match your image.

If you don’t like the initial results, then you can simply keep clicking the ‘Generate with AI’ button to get new suggestions. This lets you cycle through different options until you find one that fits better.

You can now repeat the process to generate alt text with AI for all your images.

Bonus: Optimize Your Image Alt Text with AIOSEO

Automatically generating alt text with AI is just one way to improve the images on your website. I also recommend using an SEO plugin with built-in tools for image SEO.

For example, All in One SEO for WordPress (AIOSEO) can optimize the format of alt text on your images. Its Alt Tag feature pulls the existing alt text from your media library and allows you to control its formatting with your website title or other metadata.

This feature can help with branding and SEO by making your images more relevant to search engines. Just keep in mind that AIOSEO doesn’t actually generate the alt text for you.

Another great feature is AIOSEO’s image sitemap generation, which includes XML sitemaps.

This helps search engines index your images correctly, increasing the chances of them appearing in Google Image Search.

To get started, just see WPBeginner’s ultimate guide to WordPress image SEO.

I hope this article helped you learn how to generate alt text for images using AI. You may also want to see our beginner’s guide on how to make money using AI and our top picks for the best AI website builders to create your site in a few minutes.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Automatically Generate Image Alt Text in WordPress Using AI first appeared on WPBeginner.

I’ve learned that the easier you make it for users to log in to your website, the more likely they are to become active members and engage with your content.

That’s where OAuth login comes in – it lets people sign in to your WordPress website with just one click using their existing social accounts like Google, Facebook, or X.

But here’s the thing: while OAuth login sounds simple in theory, setting it up correctly can be tricky. I’ve tested various plugins and methods on real WordPress websites to find the most reliable solution.

Today, I’m sharing my proven method for adding OAuth login to WordPress. I’ll show you how to set it up correctly, avoid common pitfalls, and get it working smoothly on your site.

The Benefits of Adding OAuth Login to WordPress

With traditional logins, weak passwords and forgotten credentials are common problems.

Users often struggle to remember their login details, leading to frustration and frequent password resets. This can create security risks and make the login process feel like a hassle.

OAuth helps prevent these issues by using secure authentication methods from major providers. Instead of creating new usernames and passwords, visitors can log in with accounts they already trust, like Google, Facebook, or GitHub.

Many of these providers also offer two-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of security.

This streamlined login process leads to faster access and fewer abandoned registrations. Users are more likely to complete the process when signing up is as easy as clicking a button.

OAuth also adds an extra layer of security that can reduce spam registrations and fake accounts. Since users log in through verified third-party accounts, it becomes harder for bots and spammers to create fake profiles.

Overall, adding OAuth login to your website creates a smoother, more secure experience for your users. Now, I will show you how to set it up in WordPress.

How to Add OAuth Login in WordPress

Setting up OAuth login in WordPress is easier than you might think. With the right plugin, you can allow users to sign in with their existing social accounts in just a few clicks.

I recommend using Nextend Social Login. It is a popular social media plugin that supports login through third-party providers like Google, Facebook, and Twitter.

Once set up, users will see social login buttons on your login and registration pages, making it simple for them to access your site without creating a new account.

Step 1: Install and Activate the Nextend Social Login Plugin

First, you need to install and activate the Nextend Social Login plugin. For details, see this tutorial on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Upon plugin activation, head over to the Settings » Nextend Social Login page from the WordPress dashboard.

For this tutorial, I will show you how to add OAuth login with Google. Nextend Social Login also offers login via Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and more. The process may be slightly different depending on the provider you choose.

Step 2: Create a Google App

Here, you need to click the ‘Getting Started’ button in the Google section.

This will take you to a new page, where you will see onscreen instructions to create your Google app that will allow OAuth login with your Google account.

Once you read this content, simply click on the provided Google Search Console link.

This will take you to a new screen, where you can add your Google account credentials to log in.

Then, click on the button at the top to open a popup and click the ‘New project’ button.

Next, you need to add a name for the project that you are creating.

You can also add a location and organization. After that, click the ‘Create’ button.

Once you add a project, you will end up back in the dashboard. From here, switch to the ‘OAuth consent screen’ tab from the left column.

Go ahead and click the ‘Get Started’ button.

Now, you have to add a name for your app. This name will be shown when asking for consent.

Then, add your business email address in the ‘User support email’ field so users can contact you with questions about their consent. Then, click the ‘Next’ button.

Next, you have to select an audience for your OAuth login in WordPress.

You can choose the ‘Internal’ option if your app is meant for private use within a Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) organization. This means only users within your company’s domain will be able to log in.

On the other hand, the ‘External’ option is best if your app or website is intended for public use. This allows anyone with a Google account to log in.

However, when you first set it up, the app will be in testing mode, meaning that only users you manually add as test users can access it.

Once you’re ready to go live, you may need to submit your app for Google’s verification process to remove restrictions.

After that, add your email address again.

This will be the email where Google will notify you about any changes to your project. You can also add multiple email addresses.

In the end, simply agree to the Google API services policy.

Finally, click the ‘Create’ button.

Once the process is complete, you will be taken to the ‘OAuth Overview’ page.

From here, click the ‘Create OAuth Client’ button.

On the next screen, you will need to create an OAuth Client ID.

Choose the ‘Web application’ option under the Application type dropdown menu.

Then, add a name for your client ID.

After that, scroll down to the ‘Authorized redirect URIs’ section and click the ‘+ Add URL’ button to enter the redirect URL.

Here, you need to add the link provided by the Nextend Social Login plugin. This URL ensures that users are correctly redirected back to your WordPress website after logging in with Google.

Then, click the ‘Create’ button.

You can find the URL Nextend has created for your website by heading back to your WordPress dashboard.

Here, check the on-screen instructions given by the plugin where the required redirect URL is mentioned.

Once the OAuth client ID is created, a popup will appear on your screen listing your credentials.

Simply copy your Client ID and the Client Secret from here and store them somewhere safe.

Then, head over to the ‘OAuth Consent Screen’ page from the menu on the left.

Here, switch to the ‘Audience’ tab and click the ‘Publish App’ button to allow this app for any user with a Google Account.

This will open a popup, where you can click the ‘Confirm’ button. Now, Google will verify and publish your app. This process can take 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Verify Your Google Configuration

Now, head back to your WordPress dashboard and switch to the ‘Settings’ tab for Google from the top.

After that, add the Client ID and Client Secret that you copied earlier and click the ‘Save Changes’ button.

Once you do that, Nextend Social Login will show a popup asking you to verify your configuration. Go ahead and click the ‘Verify Settings’ button.

Keep in mind that if you skip this step, the Google OAuth sign-in option will not appear on your screen.

Next, switch to the ‘Buttons’ section from the top.

Here, you can choose a button style for your Google OAuth login. You can also create a custom button with custom code if you like.

Once you are done, just click the ‘Save Changes’ button to store your changes.

Now, you need to switch to the Global Settings » Login Form tab from the top.

Here, check the ‘Show login buttons’ box for the ‘Login Form’ option so that users can easily opt for the OAuth sign-in option from here.

You can also configure the rest of the settings according to your liking.

Next, click the ‘Save Changes’ button.

Then, you have to head back to the Settings » Nextend Social Login page from the WordPress dashboard.

Finally, click the ‘Enable’ button under the ‘Google’ option. You can now repeat this entire process with different third-party apps to add OAuth login for them.

Once you are done, simply visit your WordPress site to see the OAuth login in action.

Bonus: Add Passwordless Login in WordPress with Login Links

While OAuth login removes the need to create new passwords, users will still need to rely on credentials from third-party accounts like Google or Facebook.

If you want to go completely password-free, then login links offer another secure login method. It lets users bypass the WordPress login credentials and simply click on a link to log in to their accounts.

With the Magic Login plugin, users simply need to enter their email address, and a one-time login link is sent to their inbox. Clicking the link grants instant access, with no passwords required.

This reduces login friction while keeping accounts secure. It’s especially useful for websites where you want to minimize barriers to entry and improve the user experience.

Plus, since these login links are time-sensitive and unique, they provide an extra layer of security against brute-force attacks and credential leaks.

To get started, see our tutorial on how to add passwordless login in WordPress.

I hope this article helped you learn how to add OAuth login in WordPress. You may also want to see our beginner’s guide on how to add one-click Google login in WordPress and our tutorial on adding CAPTCHA in WordPress login and registration form.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Add OAuth Login in WordPress (Step by Step) first appeared on WPBeginner.

I know how frustrating it can be when you visit your website and see a big “Not Secure” warning in the browser. It feels like something’s broken—and worse, your visitors can see it too. 😬

That little message can scare people off before they’ve even had a chance to look around. They might leave without reading a word, filling out a form, or making a purchase.

Google shows this warning when your site doesn’t have an SSL certificate. That means your site isn’t using HTTPS, and the browser is letting visitors know their connection might not be private.

Luckily, the fix is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through it step by step. I’ve used the same process on my own websites and helped countless others do the same with WordPress.

Why Does Google Show “Not Secure” on Your Website?

When I see the “Not Secure” warning pop up on a site, I know it usually means one thing: the site isn’t fully encrypted. Google shows this warning when a website doesn’t use HTTPS or there’s something wrong with its SSL certificate.

For reference, HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP. It uses something called an SSL/TLS certificate to encrypt the connection between your website and your visitors.

And the Google “Not Secure” message isn’t just a minor warning you can ignore. Most visitors don’t stick around when they see that alert. It signals a lack of trust, and that affects everything from conversions to your search rankings.

Let me walk you through the four most common reasons I’ve seen this warning appear on WordPress websites.

1. Your Website Doesn’t Have an SSL Certificate

SSL certificates encrypt the connection between your website and your visitors. Without one, browsers assume your site is unsafe, because technically, it is. Any data people enter on your site, like personal or credit card details, could be intercepted.

That’s why Chrome and other browsers flash the “Not Secure” warning for sites that still use plain HTTP. I’ve seen this happen to brand-new sites where SSL just wasn’t enabled yet, or even older sites where it was never installed.

2. Your SSL Certificate Is Expired or Invalid

Sometimes the SSL certificate is there, but it’s expired or wasn’t installed properly. This is one of the first things I check when someone asks why their site suddenly shows a warning.

You can usually spot this SSL issue by clicking the padlock (or the missing padlock) in your browser’s address bar.

If there’s a problem, then your hosting provider should be able to help you renew or reinstall the certificate.

3. Your Website Has Mixed Content Issues

Even with a valid SSL certificate, your site can still show as “Not Secure” if it’s loading some content over HTTP. I’ve seen this a lot when people switch their site to HTTPS but forget to update old links to images, scripts, or stylesheets.

This is known as mixed content, and browsers don’t like it. The fix is simple—you just need to update any insecure URLs so everything loads over HTTPS. Later in this tutorial, I will show you how to do this.

4. Your Site Has HTTP URLs in WordPress Settings

Another thing I always double-check is the site URL settings inside WordPress. If the WordPress Address or Site Address is still set to HTTP, your site may continue to trigger security warnings even if SSL is working fine.

You can find these settings by going to Settings » General in your WordPress dashboard. Then, switch both URLs to use HTTPS to ensure that every page loads securely. I will show you how to do this later on.

Now that I’ve covered what causes the “Not Secure” warning, let’s take a look at how to fix it and prevent it from coming back.

How to Fix the “Not Secure” Warning in Google Chrome

Seeing the “Not Secure” warning on your site can be frustrating. You want your visitors to feel safe, not greeted with a warning label.

Luckily, the fix usually isn’t complicated. In most cases, it comes down to enabling an SSL certificate, updating a few WordPress settings, or cleaning up what’s known as mixed content.

I’ve gone through this troubleshooting process on dozens of sites—both my own and for others—and I’ll show you exactly what to do to secure your site and get rid of that warning for good.

Here are the steps I will cover:

Step 1. Get a Free SSL Certificate for Your Website

The first thing I do when fixing a “Not Secure” warning is check if an SSL certificate is installed. This small piece of security tech encrypts data between your website and visitors—and it’s what enables HTTPS.

Years ago, SSL certificates could be expensive. Some companies still charge a premium, but the good news is you don’t need to pay for one, especially if you’re just starting out.

Most WordPress hosting providers now offer free SSL certificates with their plans. I’ve used this option on dozens of websites, and in most cases, enabling it only takes a couple of clicks from your hosting dashboard.

If you’re using Bluehost, just log in to your account and head to your website settings. Then click the ‘Security’ tab.

From there, you’ll see the option to enable the free SSL certificate. Just toggle it on, and you’re good to go.

Note: The screenshots above show the Bluehost dashboard. If you’re using a different host, then things might look slightly different, but the SSL setting is almost always in the security section.

For hosts that use cPanel, you’ll need to launch it from your hosting dashboard. Scroll down to the ‘Security’ tab and click on the SSL/TLS icon.

And if your host doesn’t offer free SSL, don’t worry—you can still get one through Let’s Encrypt.

We have a detailed tutorial showing you exactly how to do it: How to Add Free SSL in WordPress with Let’s Encrypt.

Step 2. Update Your WordPress URLs to Use HTTPS

Even with an SSL certificate, your site might still load as “Not Secure” if the WordPress settings are incorrect. You can fix this by updating your site’s URL.

Simply go to the Settings » General page in your WordPress dashboard.

Then, make sure both the ‘WordPress Address (URL)’ and ‘Site Address (URL)’ fields use https:// instead of http://.

Don’t forget to click on the ‘Save Changes’ button to store your settings.

WordPress will now start using https:// for all URLs across your website. However, some HTTP URLs may still be stored in your WordPress database, which may cause issues moving forward.

Next, I will show you how to fix those URLs easily.

Step 3. Fix Mixed Content Issues in WordPress

One reason for the ‘Not Secure’ warning is mixed content issues. This happens when some parts of your website load using an HTTP (insecure) URL.

Almost all of these URLs are stored in your WordPress database and added by your WordPress theme or plugins. You may also have http:// URLs in your blog posts and pages.

To fix this, you will need a search and replace plugin to find http URLs and replace them with https://. The best plugin for the job is Search & Replace Everything.

I use Search and Replace Everything because it is fast and efficient. More importantly, it is super easy to use even for beginners.

Tip💡: There is also a free version of Search & Replace Everything that you can use.

First, you need to install and activate the Search and Replace Everything plugin. For details, you can see this guide on how to install WordPress plugins.

Upon plugin activation, go to the Tools » WP Search & Replace page to start using the plugin.

In the ‘Search for’ field you need to enter http:// and in the ‘Replace with’ field add https://.

After that, you need to click on ‘Select All’ to ensure all tables in your WordPress database are included in the search.

Finally, click on the ‘Preview Search & Replace’ button.

The plugin will then perform the search and show you a preview of the results. This allows you to review the data before it is permanently changed.

Carefully review the results, and once you are satisfied, click on the ‘Replace All’ button.

The plugin will then make changes to your WordPress database and replace all HTTP URLs with HTTPS.

For more details, see this guide on how to fix the mixed content error in WordPress.

Step 4. Set Up an HTTP to HTTPS Redirect in WordPress

After switching a site to HTTPS, one of the steps I never skip is setting up a redirect from HTTP to HTTPS. Without it, people might still land on the insecure version of your site through old links or bookmarks.

The most reliable way to fix this is by adding a redirect rule to your .htaccess file. Here’s the snippet I use on most WordPress websites:

RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} !=on
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]

For details, see this guide on how to fix the WordPress .htaccess file.

If your website is running on Nginx instead of Apache, then you’ll need to set up the redirect differently.

Instead of editing a .htaccess file, you’ll need to update your Nginx configuration.

Here’s the code I would add to redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS in Nginx:

server {
    listen 80;
    server_name yoursite.com www.yoursite.com;
    return 301 https://yoursite.com$request_uri;
}

You’ll want to place this block above the existing HTTPS server block in your site’s Nginx config file—usually found in /etc/nginx/sites-available/ or /etc/nginx/conf.d/.

Once you’ve added the redirect, don’t forget to reload Nginx for the changes to take effect:

sudo nginx -s reload

If you’re not sure where to make the change, it’s a good idea to reach out to your hosting provider.

Step 5. Test Your SSL Setup for Security Issues

After making these changes, you should test your website to ensure everything is working correctly.

You can use the SSL Labs SSL Test to check your certificate and confirm your site is fully secured. Simply enter your domain name, and it will check the SSL implementation on your domain name.

Another alternative tool that I have often used is Why No Padlock? What I like about it is that it explains issues in plain language, which is helpful for beginners.

Finally, try visiting your site in Incognito mode. If you still see the “Not Secure” warning, you need to clear your WordPress cache or wait a few minutes for changes to take effect.

Make Your Site Feel Safe for Every Visitor

No one wants their site to scare away visitors with a browser warning. The biggest damage is losing the trust of your customers and visitors.

I hope this guide helped you fully secure your WordPress site with HTTPS so that your visitors won’t have to think twice about trusting it.

Bonus Resources

I follow this WordPress security guide on all websites I work on. This step-by-step guide offers an easy action plan to properly secure your WordPress website.

The following are a few additional resources that I think you’ll find helpful:

• How to Renew SSL Certificate (Step by Step for Beginners)
• TLS vs SSL: Which Protocol Should You Use for WordPress?
• Ecommerce Security Tips: How to Secure Your WordPress Store
• How to Add HTTP Security Headers in WordPress (Beginner’s Guide)
• Most Common WordPress Errors and How to Fix Them

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post Is Google Marking Your Site as “Not Secure”? (& How to Fix It) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Running a car rental business without a proper website is like trying to drive with the parking brake on – you’re just making things harder for yourself. I learned this firsthand when helping a friend create a website for his rental company.

Whether you’re starting fresh or upgrading an existing rental business, creating a professional website doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With WordPress, you can build a fully functional car rental site that handles everything from showing off your vehicles to processing bookings.

In this guide, I’ll show you the exact steps to create your car rental website in WordPress. I’ve done all the research and testing, so you can skip the headaches and get straight to growing your business.

Why Build a Car Rental Website with WordPress?

Are you fed up with juggling multiple phone calls and emails from customers who are trying to get information about your car rentals? 

A WordPress website can be a game-changer for your business, providing a one-stop shop where customers can find everything they need.

A good website can handle all the heavy lifting: customers can browse your fleet of vehicles, compare different packages, read reviews, and even reserve a car directly through your site. This not only saves you time but also improves the overall customer experience.

Plus, a car rental website is your chance to get seen by a whole new crowd. 

Think about it: people are constantly searching online for things like ‘car rentals near me,’ ‘affordable SUVs,’ or ‘weekend car deals.’ If you don’t have a website, then these people won’t find you. It’s that simple. 

A car rental website acts like a 24/7 billboard, showing off your fleet and prices to potential customers who are actively looking for what you have to offer. 

That said, let’s help you create a car rental website. I cover a lot in this guide, so feel free to use the quick links below to jump straight to the section you want to learn about:

You’ll notice I have some “optional” steps, but I highly recommend you try them if you really want your website to drive sales and boost revenue.

Step 1: Choose Your Car Rental Website Builder

First things first, before building a car rental website, you’ll need a powerful platform that can handle lots of traffic and give your customers a smooth ride. That’s why I recommend WordPress. 

There are lots of different website builders out there, but WordPress stands out for business owners seeking a user-friendly, reliable, and budget-friendly solution.

In the car rental industry, every cent counts. The awesome thing about WordPress is that it’s open-source and totally free to use. That means more money to spend elsewhere – whether that’s marketing, keeping your fleet in tip-top shape, or buying new vehicles.

​​For more on this topic, see our article on why WordPress is free.

Here’s where it gets really good: WordPress has a massive plugin library, with over 59,000 plugins on WordPress.org alone.

Think of plugins as little add-ons that do specific things. For your car rental website, you might use car plugins to manage bookings, showcase customer reviews, and display eye-catching photos of your fleet.

With the right plugins, you can really streamline your business and boost those bookings.

And get this: according to our blogging statistics, WordPress powers almost 43% of all websites. That’s a huge number, proving just how reliable and scalable it is. Perfect for growing your business online! 

Now, let’s get a bit more technical: there are two types of WordPress software, so it’s important to pick the right one.

First up is WordPress.com, which is a blog hosting platform. Then there’s WordPress.org, also known as self-hosted WordPress. For a car rental website, I recommend WordPress.org because it gives you the freedom to use all those must-have WordPress plugins without an expensive plan.

For a deeper dive into why I consistently recommend WordPress, see our complete WordPress review.

☝ Have you already created a site on WordPress.com? Don’t worry! I have a step-by-step guide on how to migrate your website from WordPress.com to self-hosted WordPress, ensuring a smooth transition for your car rental business.

Step 2: Set Up Your Website Hosting

Before you can create a professional and user-friendly car rental website, you’ll need a few things in place. 

First up, you need a domain name. This will be your online address, where potential customers can see your cars, check your rates, and book rentals. 

You’ll also need a web hosting plan, which is where your website lives online. You’ll want to make sure you pick a reliable host that keeps your site running 24/7. After all, if your car rental website experiences downtime, you’ll almost certainly miss out on bookings.

To make your life easier, we’ve hand-picked some of the best WordPress hosting you can buy. 

A domain name typically costs $14.99/year, and hosting costs start from $7.99/month. This may sound manageable, but it tends to add up over time.

Here’s the good news: WPBeginner has an exclusive deal with Bluehost. They’ve agreed to offer WPBeginner readers a huge discount on web hosting, plus a free domain. You can click the button below to get started for as little as $1.99 per month. 

Once you’re on the Bluehost website, just click the green ‘Get Started Now’ button.

This takes you to the pricing page, where you can choose a hosting plan.

For a car rental website, I recommend picking either the ‘Basic’ or ‘Choice Plus’ plan, as they have everything you need.

After choosing a plan, go ahead and click ‘Continue.’

Next, it’s time to choose a domain name for your car rental website. 

Remember that a domain is your online address, so it should be easy to remember and say, and fit your brand. The name of your car rental business is usually a good option.

For example, if your rental business is called Speedy Rides, then speedyrides.com is a solid choice.

However, if that domain name isn’t available, then you can experiment by adding helpful information like location or the type of vehicles you rent.

For instance, if you specialize in luxury cars in Austin, then you could try SpeedyLuxuryRides.com or SpeedyRidesAustin.com.

The key is keeping it relevant and easy to understand. Play around with different combinations until you find something you like.

💡 Struggling for inspiration? Check out our guide on how to choose the best domain name.

Now, go ahead and click the ‘Next’ button after choosing a domain name.

Bluehost will now ask for your account information, such as your name and email address. You’ll also get a chance to buy some optional extras.

I typically don’t recommend buying these extras right away if you’re trying to keep costs down. Plus, you can always buy them later if your car rental business needs them.

That done, simply type in your payment information to complete the purchase.

After a few moments, you’ll get an email with instructions on how to log in to your web hosting control panel. This is the dashboard where you can manage your car rental site, including setting up email notifications and asking for WordPress support.

Step 3: Install WordPress on Your Web Hosting

When you sign up using the Bluehost discount link, Bluehost will install WordPress on your domain name automatically.

Give it a few minutes to load, and then click the ‘Edit site’ button so you can set up your new website.

At this point, a window will appear asking if you want to migrate a WordPress site or start a new setup.

Since you’re creating a new car rental site, click the ‘Start Setup’ button.

The setup wizard will now ask for some basic information, such as the type of website you’re building.

You can now choose the category that best fits your site. For a car rental site, you’ll typically select ‘Business,’ but you can choose any category you want. After that, click ‘Continue Setup.’

Once you’ve gone through the entire Bluehost WordPress setup wizard, click on ‘Complete Setup.’

Bluehost will now take you to the WordPress admin area.

You can also log in to the WordPress dashboard by heading to yoursite.com/wp-admin/ directly in your web browser.

Are you using a different WordPress website host such as SiteGround, Hostinger, HostGator, or WP Engine? See our complete guide on how to install WordPress for step-by-step instructions. 

Now that the setup is out of the way, you’re ready to start building your car rental website. 

Step 4: Select a WordPress Car Theme

So, you’ve got your domain and hosting – now it’s time to make your website look fantastic.

After all, it’s the first thing potential customers will see, so it’s important to make a great first impression. 

WordPress comes with a default theme, but it’s not ideal for a professional car rental site. 

When choosing a theme for your rental website, you should look for something that reflects your brand identity. Are you aiming for a luxurious and sophisticated feel, or do you specialize in budget-friendly vehicles?

You should also think about the content you’ll be showing.

Do you have a ton of car photos taken by a professional photographer? Then, make sure your WordPress theme can handle a big gallery. 

Want to display your cars in a listing format? Look for a theme that supports this layout and perhaps even has built-in searching and filtering options.

To help you out, my team has collected the best themes for car dealerships and the best themes for auto repair shops.

Many of these themes have features designed specifically for the automotive industry, such as a built-in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoder. 

Don’t worry if you’re not technical! We’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to install a WordPress theme, so your car rental website will look great in no time.

After installing your theme, you can customize it by heading over to Appearance » Customize in the WordPress dashboard. This will launch the theme customizer, where you can fine-tune the theme settings and see your changes in the live preview.

Are you using one of the newer full-site editing (FSE) themes? Then you’ll need to go to Appearance » Editor instead. This launches the full site editor, where you can add, remove, and edit the blocks in your WordPress theme. It’s super intuitive. 

Another option is using a website and landing page builder plugin like SeedProd.

SeedProd is a drag-and-drop page builder that’s super popular and easy to use. We’ve used it to build many of our partner websites, including the Duplicator, WPForms, and WP Charitable websites.

With SeedProd, you can create stunning landing pages, homepages, and even entire websites. 

It also comes with ready-made templates designed specifically for the automotive industry.

There’s even a dedicated car rental template that you can use.

As you can see, this template has a ready-made section where you can display your fleet. 

You can easily upload your own photos and details, so it’s super simple for customers to find what they’re looking for.

The template also has a ‘Reserve Now’ call to action button that you can customize to seamlessly integrate with your booking or inventory management system (more on that later!)

Alternatively, you can use SeedProd’s AI website builder to create a completely custom theme in just a few seconds. For details, see our guide on how to make a WordPress website with AI.

Step 5: Create a Custom Home Page

WordPress has two default content types called posts and pages. Website owners typically use posts to create articles and blogs, but this creates a bit of a problem for you.

By default, WordPress will display a list of blog posts on your homepage. Regardless of your blogging plans, you don’t want a list of posts to be the first thing potential customers see. 

That’s why I recommend creating a custom home page that includes a quick rundown of your company, a peek at your vehicles (think pictures and specs), your rates, and other important information.

You might even include customer testimonials and reviews to build trust and credibility (more on that later!) Basically, you want to wow your visitors, and a list of blog posts just won’t cut it.

To help you out, we’ve created a complete guide on how to create a custom homepage. Simply follow this guide, and you’ll have the perfect ‘welcome mat’ for your visitors and potential customers.

Once you’re happy with how the page looks, you can set it as your homepage. To do this, head over to Settings » Reading in the WordPress dashboard.

Here, scroll to the ‘Your homepage displays’ setting and select ‘A static page.’

Next, open the ‘Homepage’ dropdown and select the page you created earlier.

Now, your customers will see a welcoming home page that includes all the essential information about your car rental business.

Step 6: Add More Pages

When designing your car rental website, it’s important to share as much information as possible. This will help potential customers understand what your business has to offer, so they can make an informed decision about whether you’re right for them.

Want to show off your fleet of vehicles? No problem. Need to share your rates and pricing? Easy. FAQs, maps, and other key details? WordPress can handle it all.

But before you start adding all that awesome content, let’s talk about organization. Your website must be easy to navigate so that customers can find what they need quickly. That means setting up different pages for different types of information.

For example, you might create a dedicated page for your vehicles where you display photos and descriptions. Another page might focus on rates and pricing, including any deals you’re currently running. 

Thankfully, it’s super easy to add more pages to WordPress. Just head over to Pages » Add New Page.

This opens the WordPress content editor, where you can add a title, type in the body text, add a featured image, and more. 

Once you’re happy with a page, just hit the ‘Publish’ button to make it live. 

Want more creative control over your page layouts and designs? Then, be sure to check out our guide on how to create custom pages in WordPress.

Step 7: Add a Contact Us Form

Want to help customers get in touch? A contact form is your answer!

It’s the simplest way for visitors to ask questions, voice concerns, or make requests—whether they are about booking, rates, or just providing helpful feedback. 

The easiest way to add a contact form to your WordPress website is by using the WPForms plugin. 

We use WPForms to power all our forms across WPBeginner, including our contact form, so we’re confident it’s a great fit for your car rental website.

To learn more about this popular contact form plugin, check out our detailed WPForms review. 

After installing the plugin, you’ll notice that it comes with a ready-made Simple Contact Form template. You can quickly customize this form in WPForms’ drag-and-drop editor.

Then, just add the form to any page, post, or widget-ready area using the WPForms block. It’s that simple! 

Step 8: Add a Click-to-Call Button

Have you already added a contact form to your site? Great!

But sometimes, customers need you now. Think: car trouble, accidents – all times when waiting for a response just won’t cut it.

That’s where a click-to-call button comes in. It lets folks dial your number in one click from their phone or computer, no typing needed. 

Even when it’s not an emergency, some people may just prefer a phone call.

A click-to-call button makes it easier for these people to call your business, and more calls mean more bookings and more money in your pocket.

Ready to add a click-to-call button to your site? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to add a click-to-call button in WordPress.

Step 9: Accept Online Reservations

This might be the most important step for your car rental website. If you really want to grow your business, then you absolutely need to let visitors book vehicles directly on your website.

This is typically much quicker and easier than calling customer service or visiting your rental lot in person. It’s better for the customer and for you.

There are a few ways to add online reservations, but I highly recommend the free VikRentCar plugin. Why? Because it’s designed specifically for car rental websites.

It’s packed with features you won’t find in generic booking plugins. This includes the option to define pickup and dropoff locations, dates, and times for smooth bookings.

You can also show off your vehicles in a grid or list, making it easy for customers to browse your entire fleet. 

The first thing you need to do is install and activate the VikRentCar plugin on your website. There’s also a premium version of the VikRentCar plugin that comes with extra features like rental restrictions, seasonal pricing, an integrated payment system for 60+ payment gateways, and more.

For more details, you can follow our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Upon activation, select ‘VikRentCar’ from the left-hand menu.

Here, you’ll see a setup wizard that will walk you through all the steps to get your online reservations up and running. Now, let’s go over these steps.

Set Up Your Pricing Plans

The first step is setting up your pricing plans. Make sure to think about the plan options you’d like to offer before you continue.

For instance, you’ll likely want a ‘Base Plan’ and then maybe another that comes with rental insurance or other add-ons.

When you’re ready, click the ‘Configure’ button under ‘Types of Price.’

You’ll need at least one pricing plan in order to show rates to your customers.

With that in mind, go ahead and click on the ‘New Price’ button.

Now, fill in the details for your first price type. You can also add attributes, but that’s optional.

When you’re happy with the information you’ve entered, click the ‘Save’ button.

Just repeat these steps for all the pricing plans you want to offer. 

Once that’s done, click the ‘Dashboard’ icon to return to the main setup wizard.

List Your Rental Cars

Now it’s time to create a profile for each car model in your fleet. Think of it as a little info sheet for each type of car you have.

To start, click the ‘Configure’ button under ‘Cars.’

Once again, this takes you to a new screen.

Here, click on the ‘New Car’ button.

Now, fill in all the details for this car. This includes:

• The name of the car.
• The total units you have.
• Whether it’s available or not.
• Additional information you want to show potential customers, like images.

Simply work your way down this page and fill in all the info.

Don’t forget to click ‘Save’ to store your changes.  

Customize Your Car Rental Fares

When you click ‘Save,’ VikRentCar will ask you to enter the daily rental cost for each pricing plan you created earlier.

Just type in the price for each plan, then click ‘Insert Fares’ to save this information. 

After you hit ‘Insert Fares,’ you’ll see a table where you can adjust your prices for specific rental periods for each price level. 

There are options for ‘Daily Fares, ‘Extra Hours Charges,’ and ‘Hourly Fares.’

If you keep scrolling through, you’ll see the standard pricing.

By default, VikRentCar multiplies the daily rate by the number of rental days.

However, you can customize this by scrolling back up to the ‘Daily Fares,’ ‘Extra Hours Charges,’ and ‘Hourly Fares’ tabs and making some changes.

For example, you might offer a discount for rentals longer than 3 days and then an even bigger discount after 7 days.

In that case, you’d need to set specific prices for daily ranges 1-3, 3-7, and so on.

You might also add hourly rates in order to attract more customers.  

As you type in different prices, the list of fees below will update instantly. 

This makes it easy to play around with different pricing to see how it affects your total costs.

I recommend taking some time to explore the table and the different tabs. This will help you find that sweet spot – pricing that’s competitive for customers but also covers your costs and makes you money.

Once you’re happy with your pricing, click ‘Quit Inserting’ to return to the main dashboard. 

Now, simply repeat these steps to add all the cars and pricing information to your site.

Choose Pickup & Dropoff Times & Locations

With that done, let’s set up your pickup and dropoff times by selecting the calendar icon in the toolbar. Then, click ‘Calendar’ in the dropdown menu.

Here, you can set your pickup and dropoff times.

Once you’re happy with the times, click the ‘Back’ button. 

Next up, let’s add your locations. 

Click the key icon in the toolbar, then select ‘Pickup/Dropoff Locations.’

On the next screen, click on the ‘New Location’ button.

Now, you can enter all the details for each pickup and dropoff location you offer.

When you’re ready, just click ‘Save’ to store your changes.

There are more settings you can explore, but this is enough to create a simple car rental system.

Add Your Booking Calendar to Your Website

That said, it’s time to add your car rental booking calendar to your site using VikRentCar’s built-in shortcode generator. Click the car icon to return to the main dashboard.

Then select the ‘Shortcodes’ button.

On the next screen, select ‘New.’

This takes you to the shortcode builder.

The easiest way to create a shortcode is to select the content you want to display from the ‘Type’ dropdown menu.

For example, you can select Locations List, Search Form, General Availability, Promotions, and more.

Typically, though, you’ll want to start by showing your available cars, so in that case, you’d need to select ‘Cars List’ from the ‘Type’ dropdown menu.

VikRentCar will then show some settings under ‘Details’ where you can make some customizations.

Simply work through these options and adjust them to your liking.

You can choose to display your vehicles in a list or a grid. You can also pick the order in which they appear and how many cars VikRentCars shows per page. 

When you’re happy with how the shortcode is set up, give it a descriptive name. This will help you identify the shortcode later in your dashboard.

Then, click on ‘Save & Close.’ 

With that done, VikRentCar will display a dashboard with all the shortcodes you’ve created.

To add this content to an existing page or post, click the icon under ‘Shortcode.’

You can now copy the shortcode and paste it into any page, post, or even a widget area on your site. If you’re not sure how, then check out our guide on how to add a shortcode in WordPress. 

Alternatively, if you want to add this content to a brand new page, then click the ‘Create page’ button.

This will automatically create a new page and insert the shortcode for you. Super easy!

By following these steps, you’ll have your car rental system up and running on your WordPress site in no time.

Step 9 Alternative: Use a Simple Car Rental Booking Form

If you want a quick and easy way to rent out your cars, then you can also create a rental form using WPForms. This way, visitors can enter all their requirements, and you can review each request manually.

WPForms even has a ready-made Truck Rental Agreement form template that you can customize and add to your site with just a few clicks. 

This approach tends to work best when you have a smaller fleet of vehicles. You could even accept payments directly through the form or process the rental request before sending customers to a dedicated WordPress payment form on your website.

💡Related Post: Learn how to offer equipment rentals in WordPress.

Step 10: Create a Stunning Vehicle Display

Photos are a great way to impress potential customers with the sheer variety and quality of your car rental options. You should already have high-quality photos of all your vehicles. Now it’s time to show them off!

But here’s the catch: too many big photos can really slow down your site. And a slow site? That’s a surefire way to frustrate visitors and may even drive potential customers away.

That’s why smart business owners use a slider plugin that’s optimized for performance. Envira Gallery is our pick because it lets you upload unlimited photos, create slick sliders, and organize your vehicles into albums.

This means customers can scroll through your entire fleet, seeing every detail without your site malfunctioning or slowing down. It’s the perfect way to show off your vehicles and give customers a better understanding of what you have to offer. 

Want to learn more? Check out our detailed Envira Gallery review, where we downloaded this popular plugin and put it to the test.

Ready to dive in? Our guide on how to create a responsive image gallery has step-by-step instructions to help you get started. 

Step 11: Guide Customers to Your Door

Even after you have a website, some people may still prefer to see your vehicles before booking, or they might opt for direct pickup.

You can make it easy for those people to find you by adding a Google Map to your site. 

You can embed an interactive Google Map directly in your site using a map plugin or a code snippet.

We cover both methods in our guide on how to add a Google Map in WordPress, so you can choose the method that suits you the best. 

Step 12: Showcase Your Rental Options

It’s essential to clearly communicate your pricing, packages, and any additional fees to customers. Being upfront makes you seem more trustworthy and helps customers avoid any nasty surprises.

For the best results, your pricing table should display all the rental options with their prices right next to them. You might also create tables for different car types (such as economy, compact, luxury) and different rental durations (like daily, weekly, monthly). 

That way, customers can compare their options quickly and find the right package for them.

Ready to create an easy-to-read pricing table without writing a single line of code? Head over to our complete guide on how to add pricing tables in WordPress.

Step 13: Display Customer Reviews

When was the last time you bought a product or signed up for a service without checking the reviews first? Before you buy anything, you probably want to know what others think, and so do your car rental customers. 

If you already have reviews on platforms like Google Business Profile, Facebook, or Yelp, then you can display them directly on your site using Smash Balloon Reviews Feed.

This plugin can fetch testimonials from all the top review platforms and embed them on your site. It will even fetch new reviews automatically. 

You can customize the review feed to perfectly fit your website so everything looks professional and consistent. 

For complete step-by-step instructions, see our guide on how to show Google, Facebook, and Yelp reviews on your site.

Don’t have any reviews yet? It’s time to change that! You can use WPForms to add a review form to your site. 

The plugin even has a Review Form template that lets you collect star ratings, recommendations, pros and cons, and other feedback from your customers.

Want feedback on specific staff members? 

WPForms also has a Customer Service Review template that you may find helpful.

For detailed instructions, see our guide on how to add a client feedback form in WordPress.

Once you start collecting feedback, I recommend creating a dedicated customer review page.

Step 14: Create a Navigation Menu

Now that you’ve added some useful content to your car rental website, it’s time to make it easy for customers to find what they need.

A well-organized navigation menu will help customers quickly locate the information they’re looking for, such as your location, vehicle inventory, or rental policies.

Don’t worry – adding menus and even sub-menus in WordPress is surprisingly straightforward.

For a comprehensive, step-by-step guide, check out our detailed post on how to add a navigation menu.

Step 15: Add Social Media Feeds (Optional)

Are you active on social media? Then, you already know how important it is to keep your audience in the loop. 

But did you know you can bring all that social buzz right onto your website?

You can embed social media feeds directly in your WordPress website using a plugin like Smash Balloon. 

This can keep your site fresh and dynamic, even when you’re busy with other tasks. This way, your visitors will always see your latest social content, even if they’re not following you on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

It’s perfect for keeping visitors engaged and informed. 

Displaying social media content directly on your website also directs traffic to your social profiles, so you may get more followers, too!

Want to learn more before downloading Smash Balloon? Just check out our in-depth Smash Balloon review. 

Step 16: Publish Valuable Content (Optional)

It’s not essential, but starting a blog is a great way to show off your expertise, get new customers, and keep existing customers coming back to your business. 

You might keep things straightforward and use your blog to share company updates or industry news. This is an easy way to build a relationship with your audience. Plus, you can add relevant industry keywords to your website so people can find your services more easily.

Regularly publishing this content can also keep your site fresh and up-to-date, which is a key way to improve your search engine rankings. 

If you have more time to blog, then you could get creative and produce high-quality, original content.

For example, you might review different types of vehicles, sharing your thoughts on their pros and cons, features, and performance. This can help your customers make informed decisions when choosing a rental vehicle. 

You might even offer advice on related subjects, like what to pack for a road trip or how to stay safe while traveling.

This valuable content increases your chances of appearing in search results and being shared on social media. This means more visitors, more bookings, and more revenue. 

Ready to start blogging? See our guide on how to create a separate page for blog posts in WordPress.

After that, I recommend checking out our blog post idea generator for some extra inspiration.

Step 17: Use FOMO to Drive Car Rental Reservations (Optional)

As a car rental business, increasing bookings is always a top priority, and FOMO can be your secret weapon.

FOMO, or ‘fear of missing out,’ is a term for anxiety about missing out on something exciting and trendy. If visitors think that your cars are in high demand, then they’re more likely to book immediately rather than delay. 

That’s where TrustPulse comes in. 

TrustPulse can display real-time user activity notifications on your car rental website. For example, it can show a popup every time someone rents a vehicle from you. You can even display the total number of bookings within a certain time frame to really prove your popularity.

TrustPulse also tracks customer activity on individual listings, so you can show how many people viewed a particular vehicle. This creates a sense of urgency, encouraging visitors to book before the vehicle is gone.

Essentially, TrustPulse highlights the popularity of your rentals, motivating people to book right now. 

We’ve seen firsthand how this strategy can convince visitors to make a purchase. To learn more, see our complete TrustPulse review.

Ready to get started? Check out our guide on how to use FOMO on your WordPress site. It will show you how to set up TrustPulse and start boosting your bookings. 

Bonus Tips: How to Grow Your Car Rental Website

Congratulations! You now have a professional-looking car rental website. Now, let’s get that website working hard for you, bringing in more traffic and turning visitors into paying customers.

Here are some extra tips to really boost your car rental business:

• Use AIOSEO to climb those search engine rankings. This plugin can help people find your website when they’re searching for things like ‘car rentals near me,’ ‘rent a car today,’ or any other phrases you want to target. See our ultimate WordPress SEO guide for details.
• A slow-loading website can frustrate visitors and make a terrible first impression. To make your site lightning fast, check out our guide on how to boost WordPress speed and performance.
• Understanding customer behavior is crucial for driving bookings and revenue. MonsterInsights lets you monitor your website’s performance by tracking visitor numbers, engagement, and conversion rates. You can then use these insights to fine-tune your car rental site and watch your revenue soar. For details, see our guide on how to install Google Analytics in WordPress.

I hope this article has helped you learn how to make a car rental website with WordPress. You may also want to check out our expert picks of the must-have WordPress plugins for all business websites or our guide on how to sell car parts in WordPress.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post How to Make a Car Rental Website with WordPress (Step by Step) first appeared on WPBeginner.

Recently, we discovered something alarming while auditing one of our clients’ websites. Email addresses and phone numbers were showing up in their Google Analytics reports, exposing sensitive visitor information that they never intended to collect.

Collecting personally identifiable information from users can be a major issue. Not only does it violate privacy regulations like GDPR, but it also puts your business at risk of hefty fines and losing the trust of your customers.

But here’s the good news: preventing personally identifiable information (PII) from ending up in your analytics is actually quite straightforward once you know how.

We’ve spent years working with Google Analytics across hundreds of websites, and we’ve developed a foolproof system to keep sensitive data out of your reports. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to protect your visitors’ privacy while still getting all the valuable insights you need from your analytics data.

What Is Personally Identifiable Information, and Why Should You Protect It?

Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is any data that, when combined, can reveal a person’s identity.

Some common examples of PII include:

• Full name (first and last)
• Email address
• Phone number
• Home address
• Credit card information
• Login credentials (usernames and passwords)
• IP addresses (when linked to individuals)

The problem is that PII often sneaks into Google Analytics through URLs.

Let’s say that users submit personal details on contact forms or login pages on your WordPress site. This data can be embedded in the URL of the next page they visit.

The URL might look like this:

www.example.com/contact-us/[email protected].

In that example, we can see that the URL shows the user’s email address.

Why Should You Keep Personal Info Out of Analytics?

Privacy laws like GDPR are serious about protecting personal data. That’s one reason why Google doesn’t allow businesses to collect or store PII.

If your Google Analytics account is capturing PII, you could end up in trouble, facing hefty fines or having your account suspended.

And it’s not just a technical issue – it can have real consequences for your business. Users expect businesses to respect their privacy. But if they feel their data isn’t safe, they might take their business elsewhere.

That’s why it’s so important to keep PII out of your Google Analytics data.

With that in mind, we’ll show you how to keep personally identifiable information (PII) out of Google Analytics. Here’s a quick overview of the 2 methods we’ll share with you:

Ready? Let’s get started.

Method 1. Using a Plugin to Keep Personally Identifiable Info Out of Google Analytics

Google Analytics can be overwhelming to navigate, especially when trying to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

Managing cookie consent, anonymizing IP addresses, and adjusting privacy settings can quickly become overwhelming. For many people, sorting through these settings and ensuring compliance is no easy task.

If you’re a WordPress user, then we have good news for you.

MonsterInsights is the best WordPress analytics plugin, and it integrates seamlessly with Google Analytics 4 (GA4). With its Privacy Guard feature, it offers privacy-friendly tracking that you can manage directly from your WordPress dashboard.

ℹ️ Quick note: MonsterInsights powers our conversion tracking at WPBeginner, helping us monitor traffic, forms, buttons, referral links, and more with ease. See why we love it in our detailed MonsterInsights review!

Step 1. Install and Activate the MonsterInsights Plugin

First, let’s get started by creating a MonsterInsights account. Just head over to the website and click the ‘Get MonsterInsights Now’ button.

You can then go ahead and choose a plan. For this tutorial, we recommend the Plus plan or higher, as it includes the Privacy Guard feature to help with compliance.

After signing up, you can install and activate the MonsterInsights plugin on your WordPress site. For step-by-step instructions, see our guide on how to install a WordPress plugin.

Step 2. Connect MonsterInsights to Your Google Analytics Account

Upon activation, you’ll need to connect the MonsterInsights plugin to your Google Analytics account.

In your WordPress dashboard, you need to go to Insights » Launch the Wizard to start the setup.

After that, you’ll select the category that best describes your website.

MonsterInsights gives 3 options – business site, publisher (blog), or eCommerce (online store).

After selecting a category, simply click ‘Save and Continue’ to proceed.

On the next screen, you can click ‘Connect MonsterInsights’ to start the connection process.

Then, you can follow the prompt to sign in to your Google Analytics account.

Upon signing in, you can select the website you want to track from the dropdown menu.

From here, go ahead and click the ‘Complete Connection’ button. MonsterInsights will then automatically install Google Analytics on your WordPress website.

For details, feel free to refer to our guide on how to install Google Analytics in WordPress.

Step 3. Enable the Privacy Guard Feature

Keeping Personally Identifiable Information (PII) out of your tracking doesn’t have to be complicated.

With MonsterInsights’ Privacy Guard, you can do it in just a few clicks!

This feature automatically scans your website for sensitive information. It checks for any private details and prevents them from being stored in your analytics reports.

These details can be:

• Form submission data, such as personal information entered in contact or registration forms.
• URL data, which is the full web address of the page, including the domain name, path, and any additional information.
• Query parameters, which are the bits of data in URLs, like “?id=1234.” They often track specific user actions or provide extra information to the website.

To do this, let’s navigate to the Insights » Settings » Engagement tab.

From here, you can go ahead and turn on the ‘Privacy Guard’ switch – that’s it!

MonsterInsights will now help protect personally identifiable information and keep you compliant with privacy laws.

Method 2. Keeping Personally Identifiable Info Out of Google Analytics

In this method, we’ll guide you through configuring the settings that you need to keep PII out of Google Analytics directly from its dashboard.

This option is best for advanced users, as it gives you full control over the setup.

Additionally, since this method isn’t limited to WordPress, you can follow along even if you made your website with a different website builder.

First, you’ll need to sign in to your Google Analytics account.

Go ahead and click on the ‘Sign in to Analytics’ button.

In the dashboard, let’s hover over the sidebar and click the ‘Admin’ menu.

Once inside, you’ll want to locate the ‘Data collection and modification’ section.

After that, let’s click on ‘Data streams.’

This will take you to the table, which lists all your data streams.

Now, you can select your website from the list.

This will open the ‘Web stream details’ slide-in.

From here, let’s scroll down to the ‘Events’ section and click ‘Redact data.’

On the next screen, you will see the ‘Redact data’ menu.

The ‘Choose what to redact’ section of this slide-in has two switches at the top.

Let’s first redact email addresses by flipping the switch. Google Analytics will then automatically exclude email addresses from the data it collects.

Then, you can filter out other PII by entering query parameters.

To do this, you’ll need to enable the switch for ‘URL query parameter.’ Then, you can enter your query parameters in the respective field.

For example, here, we added ‘name,’ first_name,’ ‘last_name,’ and ‘ip_address.’

Once everything looks good, you can save your settings.

Google Analytics will now help protect PII and keep your site privacy-compliant.

Bonus Tips for Privacy Compliance on Your Website

Keeping personal info out of analytics reports is just one way to comply with privacy regulations. We also recommend following these tips:

• Show a cookie notice on your WordPress website. This popup message allows users to give their consent for tracking cookies on your website. Plus, it’s super easy to set up with a powerful plugin like WPConsent.
• Create GDPR-compliant forms. With a form plugin like WPForms, you can easily add GDPR agreement fields to your forms, disable user cookies and details, and delete user data when requested.
• Add a GDPR comment privacy checkbox. Comment plugins like Thrive Comments can help your discussion section comply with GDPR with just the click of a button.

For more details, just see our complete guide to GDPR compliance for WordPress users.

FAQs About Keeping Personally Identifiable Info Out of Google Analytics

Keeping PII out of Google Analytics is important for privacy and compliance. If you still have questions, feel free to take a look at some quick answers to common questions:

How does Google handle user data and privacy concerns?

Google takes privacy seriously. It anonymizes data and complies with strict regulations like GDPR.

While Google provides tools to help businesses protect user privacy, it’s ultimately up to the businesses to make sure they don’t collect personally identifiable information (PII).

Does Google Analytics collect personally identifiable information?

Not by default. But if you’re not careful, PII can sneak in through URLs, form submissions, or custom tracking settings. That’s why it’s important to set things up correctly.

Do all sites with analytics need cookie warnings?

Yep! If your site tracks users with cookies (like Google Analytics does), then privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA require you to show a cookie notice and get user consent.

Further Reading: More Analytics and Tracking Guides

Understanding how to keep PII out of Google Analytics is just the beginning! If you want to fine-tune your tracking, improve data accuracy, and stay compliant with privacy laws, then check out these helpful guides:

📊 Google Analytics 4: A Beginner’s Guide – Learn how to set up GA4 on your WordPress site and make the most of its powerful features.

• 📢 WordPress Post Analytics – Find out how to easily access and track your blog stats.
• 🎯 How to Set Up Google Analytics Goals – Measure what really matters on your WordPress website.
• 🔗 How to Install and Setup Google Tag Manager – Simplify tracking by managing all your tags in one place.
• 🔍 How to Track Outbound Links – See which external links your visitors are clicking the most.
• ✋ How to Block WordPress Referrer Spam in Google Analytics – Improve the accuracy of your reports by making sure that spam requests do not pollute your data.
• 💭 In-Depth Comparison of MonsterInsights vs SiteKit – See how these powerful analytics plugins stack up.

That’s all there is to it! We hope this guide has helped you learn how to keep personal info out of Google Analytics. You may also like to see our guide on how to get a custom email alert in Google Analytics or our expert pick of the best WordPress GDPR plugins.

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