How To Install and Get Started with WooCommerce on WordPress

[Dynaweb]

WooCommerce is the most popular eCommerce plugin for WordPress, allowing you to sell physical products, digital downloads, subscriptions, and more — all directly from your website.
This guide walks you through installing WooCommerce and completing the essential first-time setup so you can start selling confidently.
Requirements Before You Begin
Before installing WooCommerce, make sure you have:

• A working WordPress installation
• Administrator access to the WordPress dashboard
• PHP 8.1+ recommended (7.4 minimum, though newer is better)
• HTTPS enabled (SSL certificate required for payments)
• A theme compatible with WooCommerce (most modern themes are)

💡 Good news: All current HostNed hosting plans meet WooCommerce's requirements and include free SSL.
Step 1: Install the WooCommerce Plugin

• Log in to your WordPress admin area
   
  
  Code Select Expand
  https://yourdomain.com/wp-admin
• Navigate to:
   Plugins → Add New
• In the search box, type:
   WooCommerce
• Click Install Now next to "WooCommerce" (by Automattic)
• After installation completes, click Activate

WooCommerce will automatically launch its setup wizard.
Step 2: Complete the WooCommerce Setup Wizard
The setup wizard helps configure your store's basics. You can skip steps and return later if needed.
Store Details

• Store address
• Country and state
• Currency
• Product type (physical, digital, both)

Industry & Products

• Choose your store category
• Select what you plan to sell (physical products, downloads, subscriptions, etc.)

Business Details

• Approximate number of products
• Whether you're already selling elsewhere

Theme Selection

• WooCommerce may suggest a theme
• You can keep your current theme if it's already compatible

Step 3: Configure Payments
WooCommerce supports many payment gateways. Common options include:

• PayPal
• Stripe (credit/debit cards)
• Offline payments (cash on delivery, checks, bank transfer)

To manage payment methods:

• Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Payments
• Enable the gateways you want
• Click Manage to configure API keys and options

⚠️ Most payment processors require your site to use HTTPS.
Step 4: Configure Shipping
If you're selling physical products:

• Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Shipping
• Add Shipping Zones (e.g., United States, Canada, International)
• Assign shipping methods:
  
  • Flat rate
  • Free shipping
  • Local pickup
• Set shipping costs per zone

Digital-only stores can disable shipping entirely.
Step 5: Configure Taxes (Optional)
WooCommerce can automatically calculate taxes:

• Go to WooCommerce → Settings → General
• Enable Tax calculations
• Save changes
• Configure tax rules under WooCommerce → Settings → Tax

You may also connect WooCommerce to automated tax services depending on your region.
Step 6: Add Your First Product

• Go to Products → Add New
• Enter a product name and description
• Set the price
• Choose:
  
  • Simple product
  • Variable product (sizes, colors, options)
• Upload product images
• Click Publish

🎉 Your first product is live.
Step 7: Test Your Store
Before launching publicly, test everything:

• Add a product to cart
• Go through checkout
• Test payment methods (use sandbox/test mode)
• Confirm order emails are delivered
• Verify shipping and taxes

Helpful WooCommerce Settings to Review

• Accounts & Privacy: customer accounts, checkout options
• Emails: order confirmations, admin notifications
• Permalinks: ensure "pretty URLs" are enabled
• Backups: always recommended for eCommerce sites

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping SSL (payments will fail or be blocked)
• Using outdated themes or plugins
• Installing too many WooCommerce extensions at once
• Forgetting to test checkout before launch

When to Consider Professional Help
You may want expert assistance if:

• You need custom product logic or pricing
• You're integrating third-party systems
• You expect high traffic or large catalogs
• You're migrating from another eCommerce platform

Need Help?
If you're hosting with HostNed and need assistance:

• Installing WordPress
• Verifying SSL
• Optimizing performance
• Troubleshooting WooCommerce issues

Just open a support ticket and we'll be happy to help.