WordPress is a publishing platform that makes it easy for anyone to publish online. It comes in two variations: the fully hosted WordPress.com, and the self-hosted version available at WordPress.org.
Pro Theme Design has themes available for both platforms - and you need to select the version most appropriate for your needs.
WordPress.com is perfect for less technical users who just want to create a website - and have someone else take care of all the technical mumbo jumbo.
WordPress.com features a lot of advanced functionality that is not available on a self hosted (WordPress.org) installation of WordPress.
WordPress.com is updated regularly with new functionality and bug fixes.
If you want to use a premium theme for WordPress.com then you have two options:
WordPress.org installs require web hosting and a domain name to be purchased.
WordPress.org installs need someone to keep track of software updates and make sure their websites are working.
Out of the box WordPress.org has less functionality than WordPress.com. Some of this can be added back with the Styleguide plugin, and the Jetpack plugin.
| WordPress.org | WordPress.com | |
|---|---|---|
| Web Hosting | Requires paid web hosting. | Free web hosting up to 3 Gigabytes of data, there are paid tiers that give you more space as needed. |
| Allows Plugins | You can chose from the thousands of plugins available on WordPress.org. | The most commonly used plugins are built in. Other plugins can only be installed on the business plan. |
| Technical Knowledge | Requires some technical skills to setup and maintain software. | No technical knowledge needed. |
| Security & Updates | You will need to look after software updates and server security yourself. | Security is taken care of for you. |
| Security & Updates | You will need to look after software updates and server security yourself. | Security is taken care of for you. |
| Allows Advertising | You can add advertising through one of the many available plugins. | Advertising is only allowed if you use WordAds, an Automattic product. This requires applying to their program, and a theme that supports them. |
| Allows Custom Themes | You can design your own themes, or use any of the themes on WordPress.org or purchased from theme shops such as Pro Theme Design. | They have a selection of around 200 themes. You can only upload your own if you use the business plan. |
| Customer Support | You can use the wordpress.org forums or the support channels for any premium product you have purchased. Otherwise, you're on your own. | Each WordPress.com membership tier has different options. The free tier has forum support, and the paid tiers have more and more personal support - with the business plan offering live chat. |
| Best For | Hosting WordPress yourself is best for people who have the technical skills needed to run a website, who want the ultimate flexibility. | Hosting with WordPress.com is best for bloggers who don't want to have to worry about the technical things, so they can focus on creating their website. |
We'd love to get some feedback to help us create better themes.