Question from Clara: I’ve been writing a WordPress blog that discusses a variety of family issues for over two years now.
I recently installed an update to a plugin that completely broke my blog, and since I couldn’t log in to my WordPress account I couldn’t remove the bad plugin.
I searched for a solution on Google for three days and I finally found your excellent blog post explaining how to disable the bad plugin using an FTP program, and it saved me. Thank you for that!!
Now, my question: I heard that it’s possible to install WordPress on my local PC so I can test new plugins and updates without having to chance breaking my real blog again. Can you tell me how to do that?
Rick’s answer: I feel your pain, Clara. I’ve had my own blogs go belly-up due to bad updates as well, and it’s never fun.
To answer your question, there are actually several ways to install WordPress on a local computer.
The method I prefer is to install Local, an awesome platform that makes running WordPress on your local computer very easy and convenient.
After you use Local to install WordPress on your PC you’ll be able to replicate your current WordPress blog(s) on your local machine and test out any new updates there instead of on your live blog(s).
Local does come with a moderate learning curve, but once you have it properly installed and learn how to use it I believe you’ll love it.
You can get all the details and download the software for free right here.
Bottom line: I think it’s a great idea to test new plugins and updates on your local computer instead of on your live WordPress blog, and Local makes is easy!
Bonus tip: The most effective way to protect your WordPress blog from hackers is to enable Two-Factor Authentication on it. This post explains how.
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