Installing WordPress

Step 1: Check System Requirements
Before you begin the installation process, ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for running WordPress. The requirements typically include a web server (such as Apache or Nginx), PHP, and a MySQL database. Consult the official WordPress documentation for the specific system requirements.

Step 2: Download WordPress
Head over to the official WordPress website at wordpress.org and download the latest version of the software. It comes in a compressed .zip file format.

Step 3: Extract Files
Once you have downloaded the .zip file, extract its contents to a folder on your computer. You can use any file extraction software like WinZip or 7-Zip to extract the files.

Step 4: Create a Database
Before you can install WordPress, you need to create a MySQL database. Most hosting providers offer an easy-to-use control panel where you can create databases. Alternatively, you can use a database management tool like phpMyAdmin. Remember to note down the database name, username, and password that you create, as you will need them later during the installation process.

Step 5: Upload Files
Using a FTP client, connect to your web server and upload the extracted WordPress files to your desired directory. This could be the root directory of your website or a subdirectory like /blog.

Step 6: Modify Configuration File
In the WordPress folder, you will find a file named wp-config-sample.php. Rename this file to wp-config.php. Open the file in a text editor and locate the following lines:

define('DB_NAME', 'database_name_here'); 
define('DB_USER', 'username_here'); 
define('DB_PASSWORD', 'password_here');

Replace ‘database_name_here' with the actual name of your database, ‘username_here' with the username you created, and ‘password_here' with the corresponding password.

Step 7: Run the Installation Script
Now, open your web browser and navigate to the domain or subdirectory where you uploaded the WordPress files. You should see the WordPress installation page. Select your preferred language and click on the “Continue” button.

Step 8: Configure Database Settings
On the next screen, you need to provide the database connection details. Enter the database name, username, password, and the database host (usually ‘localhost' unless your hosting provider specifies otherwise). If you're unsure about the database host, check with your hosting provider or consult their documentation.

Step 9: Complete Installation
Click on the “Run the installation” button to proceed. On the following screen, you will be prompted to enter the website title, username, password, and email address. Make sure to choose a strong password to secure your WordPress admin area. After filling in the necessary details, click on the “Install WordPress” button.

Step 10: Access Your WordPress Dashboard
Congratulations! You have successfully installed WordPress. You can now log in to your WordPress dashboard by visiting the ‘/wp-admin' URL of your website. Enter the username and password you specified during the installation. Once logged in, you can start customizing your website, creating posts, and installing themes and plugins.

By following these steps, you should have a fully functional WordPress website up and running in no time. Take your time to explore WordPress and its various features to make the most out of this powerful content management system.