When people say they built a website "with WordPress", they usually mean the self-hosted version from WordPress.org. It is the official home of the free, open-source WordPress software that you download and install on your own web hosting.
This matters because the self-hosted version gives you full control over your site, your content and your income.
What is WordPress.org?
WordPress.org is nothing but the community website behind the WordPress project. Here you can download the software, browse the free plugin and theme directories and ask questions in the support forums.
The software is released under the GPL or GNU General Public License. So you can use it, change it and even build a business on it, free of cost.
How does self-hosted WordPress work?
Think of it like owning a house instead of renting a room. You buy a domain name and a hosting plan, then install WordPress on that server. Your posts, pages and settings are stored in a MySQL or MariaDB database on your own hosting account.
Most hosting companies offer a one-click installer, so the setup is pretty easy. Once WordPress is ready, you can pick a theme from Appearance → Themes and add any plugin you like from Plugins → Add New Plugin.
The WordPress software is free, but hosting and a domain name are not. Budget for them before you start.
Why should you choose WordPress.org?
- Full control: You can install any theme or plugin and edit any file.
- Your own brand: You use your own domain, and nobody places forced ads on your site.
- Freedom to earn: You can run ads, sell products or offer memberships as you wish.
- Responsibility: You take care of updates, backups and security yourself.
That last point is the trade-off. I always keep a fresh backup before I update anything on a self-hosted site.
To compare the self-hosted and hosted versions, read our guide on what WordPress is. When you are ready to begin, follow our complete WordPress installation guide.
In short, WordPress.org gives you the free software and the freedom to run your website your own way. That's all about WordPress.org. If you have any doubts about self-hosting, drop them in the comment section below.