Since search engine algorithms have been in constant flux as of late, some WordPress bloggers have installed search engine optimisation plug-ins that promise to provide helpful data about rankings and visitors.
However, some people have noticed that after using one of these extras their websites are running sluggishly or have even become victims of hackers.
Keep reading to learn more about why SEO plug-ins can be problematic and how to minimize your risk, should you choose to use them.
Some WordPress Plugins Have Very Broad Reaches
It would be one thing if only a few thousand people used error-ridden WordPress plug-ins on their websites. However, this spring, it was discovered that a pair of plug-ins could have caused problems for millions of people. Even though these plug-ins and others like them are popular, it doesn’t always mean developers will practice due diligence in terms of doing regular updates to eliminate security issues and offer bug fixes.
Possible Reasons for Site Slow-Downs
Faulty plug-ins may cause unnecessary HTTP requests and create duplicate JavaScript libraries. Well-developed plug-ins usually have features in place to prevent these problems from happening. If you suspect that a recent slow-down in the functionality of your site is due to a plug-in, see if there’s a way to temporarily disable it and make performance comparisons.
Avoid Using Too Many Plug-Ins
Keep in mind that the more plug-ins you install on a WordPress site, the more likely it is that some of them could be posing security risks and making your website more vulnerable to hackers. Thankfully, there are tutorials for developers to use when building SEO WordPress plugins, so information about how to steer clear of security vulnerabilities is there for anyone who takes time to seek it out.
Learn Before Downloading and Installing
Whether your WordPress site sells truck repair tools or talks about the latest fashion trends, becoming informed about good WordPress SEO plug-ins to download is as easy as going to the official WordPress website and browsing for reviews of apps. Be aware that both improvements and alerts about possible vulnerability issues can be published very rapidly.
To do effective research, check to see when a positive review was published and dig deeper to see whether there is conflicting information associated with a more recent date. Also, take the opportunity to poll trusted friends or colleagues in the marketing industry. They may have some useful advice to offer, especially if their goals are similar to your own.
Try All-In-One Solutions
As mentioned above, it’s often best to minimize your use of various plug-ins and opt to use one that does everything you need. Yoast is one such all-in-one solution, and it has received a high rating from thousands of users. Although that doesn’t necessarily mean Yoast is the plug-in that’ll be ideal for your needs, it’s worthwhile to explore all-in-one plug-ins and see if they meet or exceed your expectations of WordPress additions.
Similar to most technological innovations, WordPress plug-ins can be very helpful, but have their faults. Use the information above to feel more confident whether you’re choosing one for your website or determining whether now is an appropriate time to use one.
