Why Plugins?

[? SuperNita ?]

This plugin thing is CONFUSING. As well as this V5 thing. I mean, why switch to Plugins which you can only have 5 of before you have to purchase more, but like 80% of Header and Footer v4 Codes are just thrown away, not able to work in V5? Are there ANY Codes that work in V5? I don't know if it's just me not used to V5 but, I'll say V4 was MUCH simpler. V5 is just a clutter of confusion for me, and I need help. No brief tutorials on how to use the ENTIRE V5 thing?

[Jordan]

Hi ? SuperNita ?,

You can have up to 40 plugins for free, but you shouldn't need nearly that many nor would I recommend using that many. You can also still use your headers and footers, but once you understand how plugins work you will find them to be much easier. Plugins are much more manageable because they have a pretty graphical user interface to interact with for configuration. You don't have to modify code. It's also very easy to disable plugins or remove plugins, and to re-enable them. You can also re-order them simply by dragging them on the Manage Plugins page rather than having to cut and paste code in a header or footer. In addition, you can specify who can see which plugins as well as which skins each plugin should be activated on. All of this was very tedious with the previous version, and so the process is now easier for developers and users.

To get started, take a look at the plugin installation guide, and then I'd recommend heading over to the plugin database which has many converted v4 codes and is continuously growing. If you need to request a plugin, you can do that in the plugin request board. Also, you should be aware of the template modification database. Many codes are no longer needed on v5 because you have direct access to the HTML on the page. For example, if you want a custom board mod or a custom mini-profile, you can do it yourself, no Javascript is needed because you can modify the HTML directly. This new capability is done with templates in your admin panel (Admin > Structure > Layout templates).

Also, another useful resource is this thread.

There are many resources on this support forum, and don't hesitate to ask questions. We're here to help.

[? SuperNita ?]

Thank you, Jordan! You are VERY helpful!

C:

[Michael]

Jordan prepare to have yourself linked to and quoted numerous times by me in the future. Great and simple explanation of why Plugins are awesome.

[? SuperNita ?]

I just browsed the Plugins and I gotta tell you, I agree! Plugins are great!

c:

[Michael]

Mar 29, 2013 15:10:54 GMT -8 ? SuperNita ? said:

I just browsed the Plugins and I gotta tell you, I agree! Plugins are great!

c:

Wait until you see the plugin/theme libraries. You think its cool now...

Oh no, I've said far too much.

[Thomasss]

Mar 29, 2013 15:30:34 GMT -8 Michael said:

Mar 29, 2013 15:10:54 GMT -8 ? SuperNita ? said:

I just browsed the Plugins and I gotta tell you, I agree! Plugins are great!

c:

Wait until you see the plugin/theme libraries. You think its cool now...

Oh no, I've said far too much.

You have not said enough.. 

[? SuperNita ?]

The Plugin Libraries haven't been made in V5, huh?

[RedBassett]

Mar 29, 2013 15:34:59 GMT -8 ? SuperNita ? said:

The Plugin Libraries haven't been made in V5, huh?

Plugin Libraries? There will be a "Plugin Library" of sorts released soon, to make plugins easier to find and update.