Installing a WordPress Template in 5 Simple Steps
We have found that many personal bloggers out there are purchasing WordPress templates from sites like www.themeforest.net in order to give their site a unique look. I would encourage those looking for a unique look to go the custom template route and hire a designer (Note: Make sure the designer has worked in WordPress before) and a WordPress developer. We offer both services including installing a template and setting up the blog for you as well as custom design.
Having said that already, you may not have the time or money to get a custom template done, and so, here is a quick guide to installing and configuring a template in 5 Simple Steps:
Step 1: Find a Theme You Like
Time: 30 to 60 Minutes
Search through the free or premium themes on sites like themeforest.net and choose one you like. It may take a while before you find something that you like, however, it will be worth your while to take a bit of time and find something you really like. Purchase the theme (Price can range anywhere between $20 USD and $150 USD) and download the files onto your computer.
Step 2: Download and Upload WordPress Files
20 to 30 Minutes
Go to the WordPress site and download the latest version of WordPress available. Unzip and upload to the directory you would like your site to be found at.
Step 3: Create a Database
Time: 10 to 20 Minutes
Assuming you have already purchased your domain name and hosting package (We recommend hostgator.com), you will need to set up a database next. Log into your hosting admin panel (Login details and login url should be sent with hosting info) and go to the database administration section. You will need to create a database name, database username and database password. Write down all three fields in order to remember the details later on.
Step 4: Install and Configure WordPress
Time 20 to 30 Minutes
To install WordPress go to the directory where you uploaded the WordPress files (ie. www.yourdomain.com) and follow the instructions. You will be creating a configuration file through following the online instructions. The installation process will ask for your database information and admin details as well.
Step 5: Install and Activate Purchased Theme
Time 5 to 10 Minutes
Unzip your theme folder (Downloaded in Step 1) and upload the theme under the following directory:
www.yourdomain.com/wp-content/themes/
Next, go to your WordPress installations back end and click on “Appearance”, and then “Themes”. You should see your new theme listed. Click on the theme and choose “Activate”. Refresh your website, and you should see it activated.
You have now installed your new theme! You will probably want to upload your logo and start to insert pages, posts, widgets and plugins in order to personalize your new theme. There is usually a manual on how to manipulate your new theme included with your theme download.
Let us know if you have any WordPress questions or comments. Let us know if you want us to blog about anything in particular (Procedures in WordPress, Website Design and Development Topics in General, etc.). As always, check out TM Designs’ offered services!
Thanks for reading. Feel free to comment!
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