How to install a WordPress theme

If you’re looking to build a website using WordPress but feel hesitant about installing a theme, don’t worry! Installing a WordPress theme is simpler than it may seem.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through three easy methods to install a WordPress theme, so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Let’s dive in!

Method 1: Installing a Theme from the WordPress.org Directory

If you’d prefer not to search through third-party vendors for a theme, the WordPress.org directory offers a wide range of free themes. The best part? You can access and install them directly from your WordPress admin dashboard:

1. Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
2. Go to Appearance → Themes.
3. Click on the Add New button.
4. Browse or search for a theme by name or feature using filters like Popular, Latest, or Favorites.
5. Hover over the theme you like and click Install.
6. Once the installation is complete, click Activate to make the theme live.

Note: Some themes may require additional setup, such as installing recommended plugins or configuring settings.

Method 2: Uploading a Custom Theme via the WordPress Admin Panel

If you’ve purchased or downloaded a theme outside of the WordPress directory, you’ll need to upload it manually:

1. Download the theme’s .zip file from the vendor.
2. Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
3. Navigate to Appearance → Themes and click Add New.
4. Select Upload Theme.
5. Choose the .zip file and click Install Now.
6. After the installation is complete, click Activate to use the theme.

Note: Some themes come with a Parent and Child theme in separate .zip files. Be sure to install both, then activate the Child theme.

Method 3: Installing a Theme via FTP

Using an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client allows you to manually upload a theme to your website’s server. Here’s how:

1. Download and unzip your theme.
2. Connect to your web hosting server via an FTP client.
3. Find the WordPress installation folder on the right (server) side, and navigate to wp-content/themes/.
4. Drag and drop the unzipped theme folder from your local machine (left side) to the server.
5. Once uploaded, go back to your WordPress Dashboard, navigate to Appearance → Themes, and click Activate for the newly uploaded theme.

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide has helped you easily install your WordPress theme. If you encounter any issues, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist with installation!