Summary

WordPress.com is a free and open-source place to build and manage websites that can be shared with users outside the USNH system. Faculty, staff, and students who need or want to create content in a web-format that can be shared publicly, such as blogs or eportfolios, can create a free account to get started.

This article explains how to setup and access a free account on WordPress.com, and lists resources for further training and support. ET&S does not currently support individual WordPress.com accounts.  

How-To

 

Instructions

Step 1 - Open a web browser such as Edge or Chrome and go to https://wordpress.com/. Once there, click on the "Get started" button. 

Step 2 - On the next page, fill in the details and select the "Create your account" button.

Step 3 - Next, you will be asked to choose a domain. This will become the url of your website.

NOTE: The url is the web address of your site and is difficult to change later.

If you are not prepared to choose a domain for your site at this time, select the "Choose my domain later" link. 

Guidelines for choosing a domain name:

• Keep the domain name between three to four terms. Shorter urls are easier to remember and potentially type  in.
• Use terms in the domain name that are relevant to your audience
• Avoid excessive punctuation such as extra dashes or exclamation marks, as these can be difficult to remember.

Once you have chosen a domain name, type it into the provided search box. Plan options will appear in the space below the search box.

The free plan will be the one that reads "<the domain name you entered>.wordpress.com". Click on the "select" button for this plan to create your website.

Step 4 - You will now be asked to choose a plan level. Select the "Start with Free" button.

Step 5 - On the next page, unless you have a different, specific purpose for your site, select "Write & Publish" and then click on "Continue."

Step 6 - This page asks you to name your blog. It assumes a writing page will be a blog, but you can create any kind of website you need. This will be the NAME published on your website. It does not have to be the same as the domain name. You do not have to add a tagline. Click the Continue button when you are ready.

Step 7 - You are now given three options:

• Start writing - draft your first post
  • There is an interactive tour of the Wordpress editor on this page. 
• Start learning - Watch Blogging videos to learn the blogging basics
• View designs - Choose a design template for your blog

NOTE: To edit your site in the future, go to wordpress.com and log in. To see your site, simply enter the domain name of your site in a browser.

Outcome

Users can expect to know how to create a free site on WordPress.com. To learn how to use and navigate the site, it is recommended that users find training and support like those listed in the Further Readings below. WordPress.com is not supported by USNH ITS.

Further Readings 

WordPress.com Quick-Start Guide

WordPress.com Learn

WordPress on LinkedIn Learning

 

Need additional help?

WordPress.com is not supported by USNH ITS.

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.