> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://kb.verpex.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Install a WordPress Theme

> Installing 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](/cpanel/using-ftp) 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.