When it comes to temporarily disabling your WordPress site, there are several reasons why you might need to do so. For instance, if your site gets hacked and you want to shut out any other threats, or if you need to complete regular maintenance on your website. Additionally, you might need time to develop your WordPress site, so you’d rather your customers see a maintenance or coming soon page instead of your half-completed website. Whatever the reason may be, there are a few options available to you.
The first method is to install the Disable Site plugin. This plugin is a basic solution for blocking the entire frontend of your WordPress site while still giving you access to the dashboard/admin area. To use this plugin, start by installing and activating it. Then, locate the Disable Site tab in your dashboard menu and click on it. From here, you can enable the splash page and customize the message that your visitors will see. You can also insert HTML code if you have the skills. Once you’re ready to reactivate your site, simply go back to the same settings page and disable the splash page.
The second method involves using your theme’s under-construction page option. Some WordPress themes include a built-in under-construction page option that allows you to design your own custom coming soon or under construction page using the Visual Composer page builder. To use this option, create your new page and add any modules that you’d like displayed. Then, navigate to Theme Panel > Under Construction from the WordPress dashboard. Check the box to enable the Under Construction feature and select the page you’ve created. Once you’re ready to remove your construction page, simply uncheck the “enable” option and save.
The third method involves using a maintenance mode or coming soon plugin. These plugins offer more features than the previous two methods and are best for newer sites and products that need more exposure. One such plugin is Coming Soon Page & Maintenance Mode by SeedProd. After installation and activation, you can find the Coming Soon Page and Maintenance Mode options under Settings. From here, you can choose between a coming soon page or a maintenance mode page and customize the design to your liking.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why you might need to temporarily disable your WordPress site, and there are several methods available to you. The first method is best for smaller blogs, while the second method is best for those using a WordPress theme with a built-in under-construction page option. The third method, using a maintenance mode or coming soon plugin, offers the most features and is best for newer sites and products that need more exposure.