Understanding wp-admin: Your guide to the WordPress admin dashboard

What is wp-admin?

wp-admin is the back-end area of WordPress where you create content, manage settings, install plugins, and customize your site. It is accessed by adding /wp-admin to your site URL. On some setups you may be prompted to log in.

Accessing the admin dashboard

How to log in

To access wp-admin, go to yoursite.com/wp-admin or /wp-login.php. Enter your username and password. If you use multiple sites, you may have a multisite network admin at wp-admin/network.

Where to find common sections

In the left-hand menu you will find Posts, Pages, Media, Appearance, Plugins, Users, and Settings. The top bar offers quick access to updates, your profile, and site actions.

Key features of the wp-admin dashboard

Posts, pages, and media

Create and manage content, organize with categories and tags, manage media uploads.

Appearance and theme editor

Choose themes, customize with the Customizer, and edit code if you have the right permissions. Caution: editing theme files directly can break your site.

Plugins and updates

Install and activate plugins, update WordPress core, themes, and plugins to stay secure.

Users and permissions

Add editors, authors, or admins; control access for different roles.

Security tips for wp-admin

Keep WordPress and plugins updated

Regular updates reduce risk.

Use strong credentials and enable 2FA

Long passwords and two-factor add security.

Limit login attempts and back up

Use security plugins or server-level limits; keep backups.

Customization and extendibility

Plugins and themes

Extend functionality and appearance; always review before installing.

Admin tweaks and tools

Some plugins add admin dashboards, code snippets, or custom dashboards.

Troubleshooting and help

Common issues

White screens, plugin conflicts, login lockouts; check error messages and logs.

Finding help and resources

WordPress.org support forums, plugin docs, and hosting provider guides.