Plugin

« Back to Glossary Index

What is a plugin

What is a plugin?

In mathematical terms, a Plugin - also called add-on or extension - a software component that adds a certain function to an existing computer program. When a program supports these software extensions, it enables customization. In other words, through them it becomes feasible to perform additional functions besides the standard ones, for which the particular software or website is designed.

What are web browser plugins?

There are many different types of the software extensions available for download. The most common examples are extensions for web browsers. These extensions are exclusive to the particular web browser they are intended for. For example, plugins for Chrome are not applicable for Internet Explorer and vice versa.

The extensions for web browsers are capable of performing a variety of tasks. This ranges from enabling the use of emoticons, to changing your browsing location. Some of the most popular Browserplug-ins are Adobe Flash Player, QuickTime Player, and Twinword Finder. Adobe Flash Player and QuickTime Player allow the web browser to read files in certain formats (SWF, AVI, etc.) that it would otherwise not be able to read by default. Twinword Finder, on the other hand, is an additional semantic search function for Browser. It reduces search time by providing related search results. It achieves this by understanding the intent of the searcher and the contextual meaning of terms. The results of the search on the page are returned in highlighted sections on the web page.

Plugins and extensions for web browsers are available in the respective web browser-Plugin-stores are available for download:

  • Chrome Web Store
  • Safari Extensions
  • Firefox Add-ons
  • Internet Explorer Add-ons

 

What areWordPress Plugins?

The use of plugins is also widespread in content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress, or Joomla. According to the WordPress manual, a Plugin a software that contains a group of functions that can be added to a WordPress website. You can extend the functionality or add new features to your WordPress websites. WordPress plugins are written in the PHP programming language and integrate seamlessly with the CMS. From theme makers to writing tools, there is also a directory where all available WordPress Plugin-directories are listed.

Some of the most popular WordPress plugins among content marketers are Yoast SEO, which determines the degree of Search engine optimization (SEO) analyzed for a certain set of focus keywords. Twinword Writer is also included, as it helps users write better by enabling instant search for synonyms and related words.

« Back to Glossary Index

FAQ

What is a plugin? arrow icon in accordion
A plugin is an extension that can be attached to a website or application to provide additional features or functionality. Plugin software allows developers to easily and quickly extend websites and applications without having to change the code of the original application every time changes need to be made.
What are the advantages of a plugin? arrow icon in accordion
Plugins offer many advantages. For example, they can help you personalize your website to suit your needs and preferences without changing the website's code. It can also increase the functions or functionalities of a website or application, for example, by adding additional widgets or supporting certain features that they didn't have before.
Where can I download plugins? arrow icon in accordion
There are many websites that offer free plugins, including WordPress, Joomla and many other content management systems. There are also a number of premium plugins available for purchase, including paid themes and paid software.
Can I use any plugin on my website? arrow icon in accordion
No. Not all plugins are suitable for use on all websites or applications. Before you install a plugin, you should check if it is compatible for your website or application.
How do I install a plugin? arrow icon in accordion
Installing a plugin is usually very simple. If you have downloaded a plugin from a website, you can usually upload it to a directory on your web server. After that, you usually need to activate the plugin by adding it to your content management system or application manager.
Can I create a plugin myself? arrow icon in accordion
Yes. There are several different ways developers can create plugins, including using existing software frameworks and programming languages. Many plugins available on the market are open-source and can be modified and extended to meet your own requirements.
How do I protect my plugin from viruses or malware? arrow icon in accordion
The best way to protect your plugin from viruses or malware is to update it regularly. It is also important that you only download plugins from trusted sources and that you enable all available security features that come with your plugin.
What types of plugins are there? arrow icon in accordion
There are many different types of plugins, including widgets, social networking plugins, search engine optimization plugins, e-commerce plugins, calendar plugins, security plugins, and more. Each type of plugin provides a specific function or functionality that helps the user of a website or application achieve the desired results.
What is a plugin manager? arrow icon in accordion
A plugin manager is a software that helps users install, disable and manage the plugins used on their websites or applications. Plugin managers can be used to update, deactivate or delete a plugin, but they are also useful to organize plugins into categories and find them quickly when necessary.
Can I share my plugin with others? arrow icon in accordion
Yes. Many developers and users share plugins they have created to help others. There are also many websites where plugins are made available for free download. Some of these websites even allow you to upload your own plugin and share it with others.

With top positions to the new sales channel.

Let Google work for you, because visitors become customers.

About the author

Social Media & Links:

Your free gift!
Our SEO strategy
Webinar

You want more visitors and better Google rankings?

Watch our free SEO strategy webinar now and understand where your SEO levers are and how to tackle them head on.