As web designers & developers we often tend to just focus on the positives when it comes to the platform we build with. However, we try to run an as open & as honest a service as we possibly can, so we’re laying it all on the table… We’ll be discussing the top 5 problems with WordPress websites.
We’ll be looking at the most common problems (and covering solutions) when it comes to building websites with WordPress, so you can be sure you know what you’re signing up for.
Why are we discussing WordPress?
Partly because we build with WordPress, but it’s more than that. While WordPress is not the only content management system (CMS) around – there are literally hundreds – it is the most popular, powering one third of websites.
But it does have its downfalls, let’s see below.
First up: security #
It’s no big secret that WordPress sites have suffered from their fair share of hacks and malware (malicious software) attacks in its long years.
There’s a great article by WPBeginner where they list the top 11 reasons why WordPress sites get hacked and among them the following are include:
- Weak passwords
- Insecure hosting
- Not updating WordPress
Now the first two above are generic problems that effect all CMS sites. The third however, is perhaps one of the most common security downfalls we see when it comes to running WordPress sites.
Solution: a good hosting and a good maintenance service will combat this by keeping your website encrypted, up to date and protected against malware and hackers. Plus… just use a randomly generated password!
Requires ongoing maintenance #
Unlike hosted sites such as wix.com or squarespace.com, WordPress, being an open-source (free) software, requires on going maintenance.
This is largely because updates are rolled out centrally by the software developer and then have to be applied individually on sites using WordPress.
Solution: choose a good value maintenance package or learn to carry out routine maintenance yourself.
Tend to be more costly than DIY builders #
This largely comes from the assumption that a DIY builder is something you would create and make yourself oppose to having it professionally done.
Solution: you could learn to create a site in WordPress or appreciate the value (and return on investment) in having it professional built.
Can be more complex #
WordPress is arguably one of the most user-friendly and intuitive CMSs around. However, as standard, they do lack a front-end editing ability (editing as you see it on the webpage) or the popular drag ‘n’ drop functionality that is common in DIY website builders.
Solution: install plugins to increase functionality such as Elementor or Divi.
Lastly: requires hosting #
Similar to the second point raised, because WordPress is open-source (freely available) it needs its own hosting, this naturally will cost you more money.
Solution: OK so not a solution as such, but this can be thought of as a bonus because finding your own hosting gives you more control over the website speed, security and performance.
Have you found our top 5 problems (& solutions) with WordPress websites useful?
Let us know.