Lesson 3: Open Source Platforms and the WordPress Ecosystem
1. What is Open Source Software?
Open source software is software that anyone can use, study, modify, and share — for free. Its source code is publicly available, meaning developers around the world can improve it together.
Examples:
- WordPress.org
- Linux
- Firefox
- LibreOffice
Open-source tools are often more secure, flexible, and community-driven than closed systems.
2. Benefits of Open Source Platforms
- Free to use and customize
- Improved by a global community
- Often more secure and transparent
- Highly flexible and adaptable
- Great for learning and experimentation
3. What is WordPress.org?
WordPress.org is a free, open-source CMS (Content Management System) that powers over 40% of websites on the internet.
With WordPress.org, you:
- Host the site yourself
- Install any plugins or themes
- Have full control over content, design, and monetization
- Own everything you publish
4. WordPress.com vs WordPress.org
| Feature | WordPress.com | WordPress.org |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting | Included | Self-hosted (your control) |
| Custom Plugins | Limited (paid plans) | Unlimited |
| Monetization | Restricted | Fully open |
| Flexibility | Low | Very high |
| Ideal For | Beginners, hobby use | Bloggers, creators, pros |
5. Why WordPress.org is Recommended
If you want:
- Full creative freedom
- To monetize your blog
- To scale your site in the future
- To truly own your online presence
Then WordPress.org is the best option to build on.
Next Lesson: The Story Behind WordPress
In the next lesson, we’ll discover how WordPress started, who created it, and how it evolved into the world’s most trusted blogging platform.