Plugins

Understanding WordPress Plugins

Overview

WordPress plugins are add-ons that extend your website’s functionality. There are thousands of free and premium plugins available, allowing you to add features like forms, sliders, SEO tools, image galleries, popups, e-commerce, and more — all without writing custom code.

Design TLC’s Approach to Plugins

Because not all plugins are created equal, Design TLC carefully selects plugins that are:

• Well-Made – Built by reputable developers and regularly updated.
• Secure – Reviewed for compatibility and safety to minimize security risks.
• Reliable – Proven to work well with WordPress core and other plugins.

We avoid using poorly supported or outdated plugins to ensure your website stays secure, fast, and stable.

Plugin Licensing

Some premium plugins require an active license to access updates and support. Clients on any of our Design TLC Maintenance Plans receive access to our agency licenses for commonly used premium plugins, including:

• Beaver Builder – Visual front-end page editor
• Gravity Forms – Advanced form creation and management

For plugins where we do not have an agency license — such as Smart Slider 3, The Events Calendar Add-Ons, and Smash Balloon Instagram Feed — clients may maintain their own licenses if those features are needed.

Managing Plugins

1. Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Here you can see a list of all active and inactive plugins on your site.
3. Do not install, activate, or deactivate plugins without consulting Design TLC. Making changes to plugins can affect your website’s performance and functionality.