Why You Should Switch from WordPress.com to WordPress.org
With over 21 comments being posted per second and 14 billion page views per month, WordPress has become the most popular CMS platform on the internet today. It offers the ability to build anything you like, from e-commerce sites to dedicated forums, all with the right plugin. However, there are some limitations to using WordPress.com, the commercial service that allows you to create a free blog. In this article, we will discuss the disadvantages of using WordPress.com and why you should consider switching to WordPress.org, the self-hosted platform.
1. Occasional Advertisements
WordPress.com displays unobtrusive ads in your blog from time to time in order to sustain their free service. While this is understandable, it may not be ideal for a business site that does not generate any revenue from these ads. If you want to avoid having advertisements on your site, switching to WordPress.org is a better option.
2. Displaying Ads in your Blog
Advertisements can be a source of revenue for bloggers. WordPress.com does not allow you to display any ads on your blog when using their free service. They will, however, display ads on your site occasionally to cover their server costs. If you want to have control over the ads displayed on your site and potentially earn income from them, switching to WordPress.org is necessary.
3. Brand Value
Building a solid brand value is crucial for any online portfolio. With WordPress.com, you are limited to a free sub-domain, which may not look professional for a business portfolio. To have a professional domain name and remove ads from your site, you would need to purchase add-ons. In contrast, with WordPress.org, you can choose your own domain name and have complete control over your brand image.
4. No Affiliate Links
WordPress.com has a strict policy against affiliate links, which can be a significant source of passive income for bloggers. If you want to promote products with affiliate systems, you are not allowed to do so on WordPress.com. This limitation can greatly restrict your earning potential. However, with WordPress.org, you have the freedom to use affiliate links and potentially earn a substantial income from them.
5. Restriction with Themes
WordPress.com has limitations when it comes to theme customization. You are limited to the themes available in the WordPress.com Theme Showcase, which may not offer the level of customization you desire. In contrast, with WordPress.org, you have access to hundreds of thousands of free and premium themes, allowing you to create a unique and customized website.
6. Theme Customization will Cost You
Even if you find a theme you like on WordPress.com, customization options are limited in the free version. If you want to make CSS tweaks or include certain effects, you would need to purchase the Custom CSS and Font Pack. With WordPress.org, you have complete control over theme customization without any additional costs.
7. Zero Tolerance Policy against Plugins
WordPress.com does not allow the installation of plugins, even popular ones that are used in almost every WordPress site. Plugins are what make WordPress great, and not being able to install them can severely limit the functionality of your site. With WordPress.org, you have the freedom to install any plugin you need to enhance your site’s functionality.
8. Online Learning Courses and E-Commerce
WordPress.org allows you to take advantage of plugins like Sensei and WooCommerce, which enable you to build online learning courses and e-commerce sites. WordPress.com does not allow plugins, so these features are not available unless you purchase the Business Plan upgrade, which can be costly.
9. Hosting Multiple WordPress Sites
WordPress.com provides enough space for a new site, but if you want to host multiple WordPress sites or a WordPress Multisite, a self-hosted platform is the better option. Most web hosts allow you to host multiple domains and WordPress installations in a single account, reducing expenses and providing more flexibility.
10. Experience
Hosting your own site with WordPress.org allows you to gain valuable experience and knowledge. When you encounter issues or roadblocks, you have the opportunity to learn and find solutions. This practical experience is invaluable and can help you become more proficient with WordPress.
In conclusion, while WordPress.com may be attractive for its free service, it comes with limitations that may not be suitable for businesses or bloggers looking to monetize their sites. Switching to WordPress.org, the self-hosted platform, provides more flexibility, customization options, and potential for revenue generation. If you are not technically inclined or prefer not to handle hosting and maintenance, managed WordPress hosting services like WPEngine or Media Temple are recommended.
