The ongoing conflict between WordPress and WP Engine has taken a new turn with Automattic’s launch of a website dedicated to tracking migrations away from WP Engine hosting. This site, aptly named WP Engine Tracker, adds a layer of transparency to the ongoing debate, providing real-time data on the number of websites abandoning WP Engine as of September 21, 2024. This initiative raises questions about the implications for both the WordPress community and the broader landscape of web hosting services.
WP Engine Tracker not only tracks the migrations but also offers a downloadable CSV list of websites currently hosted by WP Engine, cleverly labeled as “sites ready for a new home.” This move seems to serve dual purposes: to highlight the exodus from WP Engine and to offer potential alternatives for those seeking new hosting solutions. The site also features links to promotional offers from competing hosting providers, showcasing the number of sites each provider has gained through this migration. Notably, Pressable has emerged as the frontrunner in attracting these migrating sites, followed closely by Bluehost and SiteGround.
Ironically, the URL chosen for this tracker reflects the roots of the dispute: WordPress’s trademark allegations against WP Engine. Matt Mullenweg, the co-founder of WordPress, has been vocal in accusing the hosting company of misusing the WordPress trademark, which adds a layer of complexity to the motivations behind this new tracking site. Furthermore, Automattic has opposed claims made by WP Engine regarding lost customers, urging the community to view these claims skeptically. This ongoing back-and-forth has left many in the community questioning the long-term ramifications of such an open conflict.
Concerns regarding the website’s intentions were heightened when it was briefly blocked by Cloudflare due to “suspected phishing.” Although the site is now live, the initial interruption raised eyebrows about its legitimacy. Discussions around the tracker have also led to the registration of a similar domain, WPEngineTracker.com, indicating that the rivalry between these two entities is far from settled.
Reactions from the community have varied widely. Eric Karkovack, a contributor to The WP Minute, likened the situation to a car manufacturer tracking customer migrations between brands, highlighting a sense of futility in such monitoring. Other WordPress developers have expressed disappointment, suggesting that the energy and resources poured into this tracker could have been better utilized to foster community growth rather than sow division. Brian Coords pointed out the irony of channeling talent into negativity instead of building a more positive environment.
The security community has not been immune to the fallout. Security researcher Daniel Ruf criticized the tracker, questioning its purpose and suggesting that it could lead to increased harm within the community. His comments reflect a growing concern that the conflict might result in unintended consequences, including vulnerabilities being exploited as tensions rise.
The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate hostilities. As of November 12, 2024, WP Engine Tracker reports that over 18,000 websites have migrated away from WP Engine. This figure not only highlights the scale of the migration but also raises questions about the future viability of WP Engine as a hosting provider in a highly competitive market.
In a digital environment where trust and community are paramount, the actions taken by Automattic and WP Engine will undoubtedly shape perceptions and decisions among users and developers alike. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how this conflict will influence the broader WordPress ecosystem and whether reconciliation is possible. Meanwhile, the ongoing discourse emphasizes the importance of transparency, professionalism, and community-building in a landscape that is increasingly defined by competition and rivalry.
