How To Start A WordPress Website

A WordPress launch is easier when you make the domain, hosting, setup, design, content, and testing decisions in order.

Updated September 23, 2026

The Sequence

Choose a domain, select hosting, install WordPress, configure SSL and backups, choose a lightweight theme, create essential pages, test mobile and forms, then launch.

Choose Hosting

Use How To Choose WordPress Hosting before purchasing a plan.

1. Define the Site

Decide the primary outcome: publishing, leads, portfolio, membership, or ecommerce. This determines the pages, plugins, hosting requirements, and measurement you need.

2. Choose the Domain and Hosting

Register a domain you control and choose hosting that fits the workload. Confirm SSL, backups, support, renewal price, and migration options before paying.

3. Install and Configure WordPress

Set HTTPS, permalinks, user accounts, updates, backups, and basic security. Use a lightweight theme and only the plugins required for the site's functions.

4. Build the Essential Pages

Create the homepage, about/contact information, core service or content pages, privacy/legal pages where appropriate, and navigation. Test forms, links, mobile layouts, and accessibility basics.

5. Launch and Maintain

Take a pre-launch backup, check indexing settings, connect analytics/Search Console if desired, submit the sitemap, and establish a routine for updates and backups.