Quick Summary
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WordPress.org: A free, self-hosted solution
available for installation via cPanel or manually through web hosting providers, offering full control and flexibility for those who want to customise their website and manage every aspect.
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WordPress.com: This simplified, hosted solution, which you buy directly from WordPress, offers less control and customisation. It is excellent for beginners or those who prefer not to handle technical aspects.
WordPress is a popular application that is used to develop a website. Thus, the distinction between WordPress.org and WordPress.com is often confusing due to domain name similarity:
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WordPress.org (the CMS, managed by the nonprofit WordPress foundation):
Anyone can download the open-source CMS for free from the application publisher’s official website from the application publisher's official website. This gives customers complete control over website development.
This is also called self-hosted WordPress. It means downloading the WordPress software and installing it on your own web hosting server (e.g., cPanel). The customer may have to process this. You are also responsible for updating, maintaining, and securing your website. You must find your own hosting provider (e.g., Z.com).
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WordPress.com (a private hosting service provider):
They are a private company that also owns plugins like Akismet and WooCommerce. Their services, like managing WordPress websites, use a modified version of WordPress CMS. It is easier to set up, but you will have less control over your website’s content.
They handle your website hosting, security, and maintenance tasks. You can start for free, but WordPress website advanced customisation features (like custom domains, more storage, plugins, and themes) require a premium plan.