About WordPress

WordPress is a Content Management System (CMS) which allows users to create, edit, organize, and publish web content. Simply put, it is software for creating websites.

The WordPress core platform files reside on a server/domain where the website is to be hosted. Once installed, it provides secure tools and user interfaces to build and configure websites, without the need to write code.

WordPress is a highly extendable platform with many ways to customize and enhance its functionality. One key benefit of using WordPress is that additional features, not available on the core platform, can be easily incorporated when needed.

• CMS
• Resides on a server
• Secure and user friendly
• Provides admin and editor interfaces
• No coding required
• Extendable

History

WordPress was started, by Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little, as an open source blogging platform, and launched in 2003. Since then it has grown in popularity as an authoring tool for websites, from personal blogs to major news outlets, and currently powers 35% of all websites on the internet.

Open Source means that it is available, free, for everyone to use, however they like. WordPress has a vast community of developers, users, and enthusiasts who contribute the platform, offer educational resources, and technical support.

• Almost 20 years of use
• Used by 35% of websites
• Open Source
• Large community

Requirements

Since the core platform files must reside on a server, access to a server is a must. The server must also have PHP and MySQL installed. Another consideration would be the domain name for the website, which requires leasing from a registrar. Fortunately many web hosts provide services that simplify and automate the setup process.

• Server space (web host)
• Domain name (registrar)
• PHP/MySQL
• Internet access

Other Website Builders

This seems like the right place to mention other website creation platforms, such as SquareSpace.com and Wix.com. These are good options, with many features which are capable, user friendly, and in some ways, a better option than WP. In general, I would say these options are easier to use, but more expensive. They have more, out-of-the-box features, but are less extendable. They have better support, but a much smaller community. WordPress offers complete control and ownership, but a greater learning curve and more responsibility.