3 Ways to Change the Default Language in WordPress
WordPress has become the go-to platform for individuals and businesses to create and manage their websites. One of the reasons it has grown so popular is its ability to cater to users from all around the world thanks to its multiple language support. If you want to change the default language on your WordPress site, this article will guide you through three different methods.
1. Change Language from WordPress Dashboard
The easiest way to change the default language in WordPress is through your website’s dashboard. Here are the steps to follow:
a. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
b. Navigate to “Settings” and then click on “General.”
c. Scroll down until you find the “Site Language” dropdown menu.
d. Click on the dropdown menu and select your desired language from the list.
e. Finally, click “Save Changes” at the bottom of the page.
Your site’s language should now be updated!
2. Use a Language-Switching Plugin
If you want even more control over your website’s languages, consider using a plugin designed for this purpose. Some popular plugins that allow this functionality are WPML, Polylang, and Weglot.
Here’s how to use such plugins:
a. Install your chosen plugin from your WordPress dashboard by navigating to “Plugins” > “Add New” and searching for it.
b. Once installed and activated, follow the plugin’s instructions or documentation for setting up languages and managing translations.
c. Customize your site according to your multilingual needs by translating content and switching between languages seamlessly.
3. Modify wp-config.php File
Another method involves editing your wp-config.php file directly:
a. Connect to your website using an FTP client like FileZilla or via cPanel’s File Manager.
b. Locate the wp-config.php file in your site’s root directory, right-click, and select “Edit” or “Code Edit.”
c. Look for the following line of code: `define (‘WPLANG’, ”);`
d. Replace the empty string with your desired language code in single quotes, e.g., `define (‘WPLANG’, ‘fr_FR’);` for French.
e. Save your changes and close the wp-config.php file.
Your website’s language should now be changed to the one specified in the wp-config.php file.
In conclusion, changing the default language in WordPress is simple and can be achieved through various methods. Whether you opt for changing it from your dashboard, using a language-switching plugin, or editing your wp-config.php file directly, you’ll be able to cater your site to a whole new demographic effortlessly.