Chykalophia Docs

Step-by-step instructions for installing a plugin on your WordPress site, from the official directory or from a file.

There are two ways to install a plugin from your WordPress dashboard: searching the built-in directory, or uploading a file you've downloaded. Both are covered here. (Developers can also copy plugin files straight onto the server. This guide doesn't cover that.)

Quick summary

To install a free plugin: go to Plugins → Add Plugin, search by name, click Install Now, then click Activate. To install a premium plugin from a file: click Upload Plugin, choose the ZIP file, install, and activate.

What you'll need

Administrator access to your WordPress site
The name of the plugin you want to install, or a downloaded ZIP file for premium plugins

Check with us first

If we manage your site, please check with us before installing new plugins. A new plugin can occasionally conflict with existing ones. If you're on a care plan, we'll install it for you and test it safely.

Method 1: Install from the WordPress directory (free plugins)

This is the easiest method for any free plugin listed on WordPress.org.

Log in to WordPress and go to your dashboard. Need help logging in? See How to log in to WordPress.

Go to Plugins → Add Plugin in the left sidebar.

Search for the plugin. Type the plugin's name into the search box in the top right. Results appear automatically.

Find the right plugin. Check the plugin name, author, star rating, and number of active installs. A plugin with hundreds of thousands of installs and recent updates is a good sign.

Click Install Now. WordPress downloads and installs the plugin. The button briefly says Installed!, then changes to Activate.

Click Activate. The plugin is now live and running on your site. Without this step, the plugin is installed but not doing anything.

You're done

The plugin is installed and active. Many plugins add their own item to your left sidebar menu. Others put their settings under Settings or Tools.

Method 2: Upload a plugin ZIP file (premium plugins)

Premium plugins (paid ones from a developer's website) usually come as a ZIP file that you download to your computer first.

Download the plugin ZIP file from the developer's website. Keep it on your computer — don't unzip it.

In WordPress, go to Plugins → Add Plugin.

Click the Upload Plugin button near the top of the page.

Choose the ZIP file you downloaded. The button's label depends on your browser, for example Choose File or Browse….

Click Install Now. WordPress unpacks and installs the plugin.

Click Activate Plugin to turn it on.

After installing: activate your license

Many premium plugins need a license key before they'll receive updates and support. After activating, check the plugin's settings page for a license or activation field. Each plugin labels it differently.

Your license key is usually emailed to you when you buy the plugin. Enter it in that field and save or activate it, as the plugin's instructions describe. If you're not sure where to find the key, check the email from the plugin developer or your account on their website.

What to do if something goes wrong

Occasionally a new plugin causes a conflict — your site might look broken, or an error message appears. Don't panic.

Go back to Plugins → Installed Plugins.

Find the new plugin and click Deactivate.

Check if the site looks normal again.

If deactivating fixes it, that plugin is likely conflicting with something else on your site. Contact us and we'll investigate. Full details in Deactivating vs deleting plugins.

Common questions

Why can't I see the 'Add Plugin' option?

You need Administrator access to install plugins. If you're logged in as an Editor or Author, you won't see this option. On a multisite network, only the network's Super Admin can install plugins. Some sites also switch off plugin installs in their configuration, which hides the option even from Administrators. Ask an Administrator to install it, or ask us.

Do I need to do anything after activating a plugin?

Usually, yes. Most plugins need some initial setup — like entering your address for a store, or choosing which forms to display. Look for a new menu item in your sidebar, or a welcome message from the plugin that links to its settings. (WordPress's own "Plugin activated." notice doesn't link anywhere.)

Can I install any plugin I want?

Technically yes, if you have Administrator access and your site allows plugin installs (see above). But we recommend checking with us first, especially on sites we manage. Some plugins conflict with your theme or with other plugins. A brief check can save a lot of headaches.

The plugin installed but nothing changed — why?

Plugins often need to be configured before they do anything visible. Find the plugin's settings (usually in the sidebar or under Settings) and go through the setup steps.

Need a hand?

If you're stuck, email support@chykalophia.com and we'll help. Include your website address and a screenshot if you can.

Learn more

Managing plugins — official WordPress documentation

How to install a plugin