Using a WordPress plugin to add features like contact forms, SEO tools, and social network integrations to your WordPress website without knowing how to code is possible using a Plugin. This will also increase its usefulness. But occasionally, you may have to deactivate and delete WordPress Plugins.
This may be due to performance problems, conflicts with other Plugins, or the Plugin being deactivated. Maintaining your Plugins properly keeps your WordPress website safe, quick, and functional. This guide shows you how to deactivate and delete a WordPress Plugin safely.
This article assumes that you are logged in to your WordPress website’s Dashboard and is in support of our You Tube Video: Plugin Powerhouse: Deactivate & Delete WordPress Plugins Like a Pro.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
How to Deactivate and Delete WordPress Plugin
Step 1: Access the WordPress Dashboard
1. Navigate to your WordPress website URL: yourwebsite.com/wp-admin and enter you Username and Password credentials to log in.
2.In the left-hand menu, click “Plugins”. This will take you to the “Plugins” page which lists all your installed Plugins.
Step 2: Deactivate the Plugin
3. Find the Plugin you wish to deactivate. Click “Deactivate” under the Plugin’s name. The Plugin will now be inactive although still installed on your WordPress site.
Step 3: Delete the Plugin
4. Before you can delete a Plugin, you must deactivate it. Please follow the steps above if you have not already deactivated it.
5. After deactivating the plugin, you will see a “Delete” option under the Plugin’s name. Click “Delete”..
6. A confirmation message will appear. Click “OK” to confirm the deletion. The Plugin will now be removed from your WordPress site.
You Tube Video: How To Deactivate And Delete WordPress Plugins
Additional Information:
Monitor Plugin Updates
Some Plugins may introduce new features or changes that could affect your site. Always read the changelog before updating to know what changes are being made.
Limit the Number of Plugins
While Plugins add functionality, having too many can slow down your site and increase the risk of conflicts. Only keep the Plugins you need.
Back up Your Site
Always make a backup of your website before making any major changes, such as removing Plugins. This guarantees you can repair your website if there is an issue.
Check for Dependencies
Ensure the Plugin you wish to remove doesn’t depend on other Plugins or Themes. Functionality problems may arise if you remove a Plugin that depends on others.
Database Cleanup
Even after they are removed, some Plugins continue to save data in your database. To keep your database streamlined and remove any residual data, consider using a Plugin to clean up your database.
Review Plugin Performance
Examine your Plugins’ performance regularly. To increase site speed and lower security threats, remove and deactivate Plugins you don’t need.
Update Regularly
Ensure your plugins are updated with the most recent releases. Security risks can be present in outdated plugins.
Use a Staging Site Test the modifications on a staging site first if you’re unsure how deactivating or removing a Plugin will affect things. This way, you can see the benefits without disrupting your live website.
Login to Domains.co.za Account
1. Go to the Domains.co.za website Account Login page.
2. Enter your Email and Password.
3. Then click the “Sign In” button.
Access WordPress from your Domains.co.za Dashboard
4. On the right of the Dashboard under the “Manage Account” menu, click “Manage Services” on the drop-down menu and select your Hosting plan, our example uses Web Hosting.
5. Scroll down to the “Quick Manage” section (below “Product Information”) and click on the WordPress icon. If you haven’t yet installed WordPress, it will ask you to first do so.
Access WordPress via cPanel from your Domains.co.za Account
6. On the right of the Dashboard under the “Manage Account” menu, click “Manage Services” on the drop-down menu and select your Hosting plan, our example uses Web Hosting. (refer image above).
7. Click “Manage” next to the website domain you wish to access in cPanel.
8. The Product Information section will display – click the “Login” button next to Control Panel.
9. On the cPanel Dashboard, in the menu on the right, select “WP Toolkit”, or if you haven’t yet installed WordPress “WordPress Management”.
10. There is also a WordPress icon under the “Popular Applications” section on the cPanel Dashboard.
WordPress can be Accessed Online via cPanel
1. Go to your cPanel URL or cPanel Login page.
2. Enter your “Email” and “Account Password” and click “Log In”
3. On the cPanel Dashboard, in the menu on the right, select “WP Toolkit”, or if you haven’t yet installed WordPress “WordPress Management”. There is also a WordPress icon under the “Popular Applications” section on the cPanel Dashboard.
