Overview
This article provides answers to common questions about using WordPress at DreamHost.
General questions
Can I install WordPress in the panel?
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Yes. You can use the DreamHost WordPress installer in the panel to install the latest version of WordPress.
Where can I log in to my WordPress site?
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You can log in to any WordPress site at the following address (replace example.com with your website name):
example.com/wp-login.php
What is the difference between WordPress and DreamPress?
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WordPress is free software you can install on your site to run a personal website such as a blog. Depending on how many resources your site requires, you can install this on a Shared, VPS, or Dedicated Server. However, it's up to you to determine your site's resource needs and make sure you're on the best type of server to run it.
DreamPress is DreamHost's managed WordPress plan where sites are hosted on a cloud server, which improves server stability. Sites also come with a free Let's Encrypt SSL certificate to ensure your data remains private.
Is email included with WordPress?
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Email is included on Shared Unlimited and all DreamPress plans, but is not included on Shared Starter (DreamHost's basic WordPress Plan). See this article to learn more about what is included within each of the various DreamHost WordPress plans.
Where can I learn more about using WordPress?
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WordPress is simple to install and easy to use, but if you've never used it before, you may want to check out a few articles to help you get started. There are many online resources that cover the basics, and even full tutorials that teach you everything you need to know about using WordPress to create a robust website.
DreamHost has created a comprehensive guide that helps you get started with your first WordPress site, and covers more advanced topics, such as managing themes, plugins, caching, troubleshooting, and more.
How much does WordPress cost?
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See this page for a list of various plans, features, and prices.
WordPress management
Are updates managed by DreamHost?
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Yes. All DreamHost WordPress installs in the panel are always set to update automatically (unless you specifically turn it off).
Automatic updates for DreamHost WordPress installations will update the core WordPress installation whenever a new major release is available, and will also update any plugins that are available at that time. However, automatic updates will not update your theme, since doing so would overwrite any customizations you've made to it. Instead, you are responsible for updating your theme.
Are backups provided?
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Yes. DreamHost backs up all websites for a short period of time in case you need to restore your site to a previous version.
It's highly recommended you keep your own personal backups as well. See this article to learn more about various backup tools for your WordPress site.
Migrating and importing
Can I import my own custom WordPress site?
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Yes. Depending on your needs, there are several ways to do this. See this article for further details.
Can DreamHost migrate my WordPress site for me?
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Yes. DreamHost's Professional Services Team offers a service to migrate a single WordPress site for $99. See this article for further details.
Security
Can I use an SSL certificate with my WordPress site?
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Yes. You can add an SSL certificate to any WordPress site.
If you purchase a DreamPress plan, a Let's Encrypt certificate is added automatically to your site.