Is your website at risk? Find out what can happen if you use WordPress

Is your website at risk? Find out what can happen if you use WordPress

In the dynamic world of web development, clashes between platforms and services are inevitable. One of the recent cases that generated a lot of controversy is the conflict between WordPress and WP Engine, a leading provider of specialized WordPress hosting. This incident not only raises questions about interoperability and competition, but also about how website developers and owners can reduce the risks associated with their digital infrastructure.

What happened?

The conflict arose when WP Engine decided to discontinue support for certain key WordPress functionality, particularly related to performance and third-party plugin integration. This included restrictions on the use of some essential tools that developers often employ to customize and optimize sites. In addition, increasing incompatibilities with certain WordPress updates were reported, leading to an inconsistent experience for users.

For its part, WordPress publicly criticized WP Engine, arguing that these restrictions went against the core principles of the platform, which are based on freedom and flexibility for users. The situation escalated, generating confusion and concern in the community.

Stephen Phillips / Unsplash

Why did it happen?

The reasons behind this conflict are related to two main factors:

Resource management by WP Engine: By limiting certain functionalities, WP Engine sought to optimize the performance of its servers and ensure the stability of hosted sites. However, this resulted in restrictions that affected advanced users.
WordPress's focus on freedom of development: WordPress promotes an open and collaborative ecosystem, which contrasts with WP Engine's restrictive policies. This clash of philosophies was one of the drivers of the disagreement.

How does it affect WordPress websites?

The impact of this conflict has been felt primarily in three areas:

Compatibility: Users employing WP Engine have faced problems with plugins and themes not working properly due to the restrictions implemented. This has forced many to rethink their hosting strategy.
Updates: Some WordPress updates can conflict with the limits set by WP Engine, which slows down the process of implementing improvements and security updates to hosted sites.
Cost and flexibility: Developers and businesses that rely on WP Engine now face higher costs to fix compatibility issues or migrate to other platforms.

Possible solutions and alternatives

If you have a site hosted on WP Engine or are considering alternatives, here are some options:

Migration to another provider: Companies like SiteGround, Kinsta or Bluehost offer specialized WordPress hosting services, with policies more aligned with the platform's philosophies.
Internal Optimization: If you want to stay on WP Engine, evaluate optimizing your site by removing unnecessary plugins and using caching tools that comply with current restrictions.
Consider AWS: At Eprisma, we have worked on many of our projects using AWS to develop robust and scalable solutions. AWS offers full control over your environment, making it an ideal alternative for those looking for flexibility and performance.

The current status of WordPress

Despite this incident, WordPress remains the leading CMS worldwide, powering more than 40% of the websites on the internet. Its active community, plugin ecosystem and focus on ease of use keep it as the preferred choice for developers and site owners.

WP Engine is a reminder that success in the world of web development depends not only on the technology you choose, but also on the partners and vendors you work with. It is important to constantly evaluate the needs of your project and ensure that the infrastructure supports your long-term goals.