How to Install a WordPress Theme

To create a website that matches your brand and looks professional, you need to install and activate a WordPress theme.

You can install a WordPress theme using the WordPress directory, download it manually, or use an FTP client.

1. Install Using the WordPress Theme Directory

Follow these steps if you are going to use a free theme:

• Log into your WordPress dashboard,
• Locate Appearance and click Themes.
• Next, click the Add New button at the top of the page.
• Hover above your theme of choice to start the installation process
• You can get a preview of your website using the theme by clicking the Live Preview button.
• Click Activate to use the theme
• Visit the site to see how everything looks.

2. Install Through Downloading WordPress Themes

If you purchased a theme from a developer, you need to upload before installing. Follow the steps below to upload and install a theme.

• Download the theme’s .zip file to your local computer.
• Log into your WordPress dashboard,
• Locate Appearance and click Themes.
• Click the Upload Theme button at the top of the page to upload a theme you have previously downloaded.
• Click Choose File.
• Select your theme’s .zip file on your computer
• Click Install Now and wait for the uploading process to complete.
• Click Activate to use the theme straight away

3. Installing a WordPress Theme via FTP

A File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a protocol that allows file exchange between computers and servers on a network.

• Open Filezilla, enter your login details and click Quickconnect. Follow the steps in this guide to connect via FTP if you are not familiar with this process.
• Unzip the theme file first.
• Inside Filezilla, search for wp-content inside your WordPress directory, and open it.
• Go to the themes folder.
• Click the folder containing the template files.
• Drag and drop it into the themes folder. Your new theme will appear on the list of WordPress themes.
• Login to your WordPress dashboard,
• Locate Appearance and then click Themes
• Search for your new theme on the list of installed themes.
• Click Activate.
• Check out how you like your new site design.

A WordPress theme gives a consistent design to a WordPress site while maintaining its core features. Consider your site type, compatibility, and budget before installing a theme.