How To Use GetTerms’ WordPress Plugin

How To Use GetTerms’ WordPress Plugin

WordPress plugins are essential tools that enhance the functionality of your website, offering features that range from simple aesthetic tweaks to robust security measures. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, understanding how to find, install, and utilize plugins can significantly improve your WordPress experience. 

This guide will focus on understanding WordPress plugins in general and will provide a simple walkthrough of using the GetTerms WordPress Plugin to easily integrate privacy policies and cookie consent widgets into your website.

What Are WordPress Plugins?

A WordPress plugin is a piece of software designed to extend the functionality of a WordPress website. Plugins can serve a variety of purposes, such as improving search engine optimization (SEO), enhancing security, adding social sharing buttons, or embedding forms. Essentially, plugins allow you to add custom features to your website without needing to write code from scratch.

Types of Plugins

1. Free Plugins: Available in the WordPress Plugin Directory, these plugins are usually maintained by developers who offer their basic features for free. Users can upgrade to a premium version for advanced functionality.
2. Premium Plugins: These are available through third-party vendors and often come with more comprehensive features, customer support, and regular updates.
3. Custom Plugins: Developed specifically for unique website needs, these plugins can be tailored to exact specifications.

Finding and Installing WordPress Plugins

With nearly 60,000 plugins available in the WordPress Plugin Directory, the challenge often lies in finding the right one. Here’s how to search for and install plugins effectively:

1. Search the Directory: Use the search function within your WordPress dashboard (Plugins > Add New) or visit the WordPress Plugin Directory online to browse plugins.
2. Use Filters and Recommendations: Narrow your search by filtering for popular plugins, well-reviewed options, or those recommended by credible sources.
3. Check Reviews and Ratings: Always read user reviews and check the plugin’s rating to ensure it is well-supported and regularly updated.
4. Install and Activate: Once you’ve found the plugin you want, click “Install Now” followed by “Activate” to make it functional on your site.

Managing Plugins: Activation, Deactivation, and Updates

1. Activating a Plugin
   Once installed, a plugin must be activated before it starts working on your site. Activation essentially “turns on” the plugin’s features. This can be done via the Plugins menu in your dashboard.
2. Deactivating a Plugin
   If you need to troubleshoot an issue or temporarily disable a plugin, you can deactivate it. Deactivation stops the plugin from functioning without uninstalling it, which is useful for testing compatibility or performance.
3. Updating Plugins
   Quality plugins are regularly updated to stay compatible with the latest version of WordPress. When a plugin needs updating, you will see a notification in your dashboard. You can update plugins manually or set them to update automatically.

How to Use the GetTerms WordPress Plugin

The GetTerms WordPress Plugin simplifies the process of embedding privacy policies and cookie consent widgets into your website. It ensures compliance with privacy laws and offers customization options to fit your site’s design and functionality. 

Step 1. Download and install

To install the GetTerms’ plugin, you can do it in two (2) ways via:

A. Direct Installation from the WordPress Directory

1. 1. Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard: Ensure you have admin access to your WordPress site.
   2. Navigate to Plugins > Add New: On the left-hand menu, click “Plugins” and then select “Add New.”
   3. Search for GetTerms Plugin: Use the search bar to find the GetTerms plugin.
   4. Click Install: Once you find the GetTerms plugin, click the “Install Now” button.
   5. Activate the Plugin: After installation, click “Activate” to enable the plugin on your site.

B. Manual Installation via Upload

1. 1. Download the Plugin: Obtain the plugin zip file from the GetTerms website.
   2. Upload the Plugin: Go to Plugins > Add New, and click on “Upload Plugin.”
   3. Choose the Zip File: Select the GetTerms plugin zip file and click “Install Now.”
   4. Activate the Plugin: Once uploaded, click “Activate.”

Step 2. Embedding Privacy Policies and Cookie Consent Widgets

Once the GetTerms plugin is activated, embedding your privacy policies and cookie consent widgets is straightforward:

1. Access Plugin Settings: Navigate to the GetTerms settings page in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Choose Your Embedding Method:
   • Shortcodes: Use shortcodes provided by the plugin to insert policies into any page or post (e.g., [getterms-privacy-policy]).
   • Automatic Embedding: Enable automatic embedding for the plugin to insert policies into predefined areas like footers or sidebars.
3. Customize Widget Settings: For the Cookie Consent Widget, you can customize its appearance, set preferences for cookie rejection, and enable a persistent icon that allows users to reopen the consent banner at any time.

Step 3. Customizing Your Policies and Widgets

The GetTerms plugin offers several customization options to tailor your policies and widgets:

• Styling Options: Basic styling can be enabled or disabled within the plugin settings. For advanced customization, you can apply custom CSS.
• Persistent Icon: Essential for compliance, this feature allows users to manage their cookie preferences continuously.
• Automatic Updates: Any updates made to your policies in your GetTerms account will be automatically reflected on your WordPress site.

Best Practices

1. Limit Plugins to Necessity: Install only the plugins you need to avoid potential conflicts and performance issues.
2. Regular Updates: Keep plugins updated to ensure security and functionality.
3. Deactivate and Delete Unused Plugins: Deactivate and delete any plugins you are not using to keep your site clean and fast.
4. Check Compatibility: Before installing new plugins, ensure they are compatible with your current WordPress version and other installed plugins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use the GetTerms plugin on multiple websites?

• Yes, the GetTerms plugin can be used on multiple WordPress sites, provided you have the appropriate licensing.

2. How do I update the GetTerms plugin?

• Updates are managed through your WordPress dashboard, just like any other plugin. You’ll be notified when an update is available.

3. What happens if I deactivate the GetTerms plugin?

• Deactivating the plugin will stop its features from functioning, but your policies and widgets will no longer be displayed on your site.

4. Is there a way to preview my policies before embedding them?

• Yes, you can preview your policies directly within the GetTerms dashboard before embedding them into your site.

Wrapping Up

WordPress plugins are powerful tools that can greatly enhance the functionality of your website. By understanding how to find, install, and manage plugins, you can optimize your site’s performance and provide a better user experience. The GetTerms WordPress Plugin, in particular, offers a seamless way to ensure your site’s compliance with privacy laws while providing flexibility and customization options.

By following our guide, you can confidently manage your plugins and maximize their benefits. By utilizing WordPress plugins effectively, especially the GetTerms plugin, you can ensure your site is compliant and fully functional with minimal effort.

For additional support, resources, & more, consider utilizing GetTerms and the GetTerms WordPress Plugin. For more information, you can visit our website here. We offer a simple solution, ensuring you meet legal standards while maintaining user confidence in your data handling practices. Create an account and get started in 5 minutes. For any further questions or assistance, the GetTerms support team is always ready to help.