Whether you need web hosting or not depends on which version of WordPress you want to use. If you want to use the free and open-source WordPress.org, you will need web hosting. However, if you want to proceed with the commercial WordPress.com, you don’t need web hosting because they take care of that.
But what’s the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com? Keep reading to find out.
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What is WordPress.org?
WordPress.org is a content management system (CMS) you install on your web server. It offers the official WordPress software, available for free download to create a self-hosted WordPress site.
WordPress.org powers over 30% of all websites globally. It offers a wide range of flexibilities and features, giving you complete control over your site.
Choose from a wide array of themes to give your site a unique look. Install plugins as needed. WordPress.org also lets you pick the hosting and upgrade anytime as your site grows.
It also lets you scale your website as your business or blog grows. Add new features and functionality with plugins or hire a developer for customizations.
What is WordPress.com?
WordPress.com is a commercial version of WordPress, hosted by WordPress itself. By creating an account, you can set up a blog or website on their servers without needing web hosting. Though convenient, there are notable downsides to using WordPress.com.
You don’t own your content on WordPress.com. If WordPress shuts down, all your hard work will disappear.
Second, customization on WordPress.com is limited. While some themes and plugins are available, you’re restricted in modifying your site.
Other restrictions can hold you back, including the lack of options to upload plugins or themes and limited storage capacity.
Differences Between WordPress.org and WordPress.com
You’ve got a basic understanding of each WordPress version, so let’s highlight the key differences:
- WordPress.org is a self-hosted platform, while WordPress.com is a hosted platform.
- WordPress.com offers you limited control over the functionality and customizations, while WordPress.org provides complete control over your website and data.
- While WordPress.org is free and open-source, WordPress.com has a range of paid plans.
- WordPress.org offers far more flexibility, themes and plugins than WordPress.com;
- WordPress.org requires you to have a little more technical knowledge to set up and manage your site, while WordPress.com is much easier to use for those that don’t want to deal with the tech side at all.
- You can optimize your website better for SEO on WordPress.org, while on WordPress.com, you are more limited in this regard.
So, Which Platform Should You Choose?
WordPress.org is perfect for creating a professional website or blog with full control. You can build your site exactly as you desire, without any limitations.
You’ll need to buy a web hosting service and domain name to use WordPress.org. This gives you much more flexibility and control over your site. You can use any themes or plugins, unlike WordPress.com.
If you’re after a basic and simple website, consider WordPress.com. It’s easy to set up and free unless you decide to upgrade to a premium plan.
But, as I mentioned before, you have limited control over your website, including themes and plugins.