How to Get the Site URL in WordPress: Methods Explained

Are you managing a WordPress website? Then knowing your site URL is crucial. It’s needed for creating links to your site in content, sharing your site on social media, and even setting up custom configurations.

But for beginners, navigating the WordPress interface, finding this seemingly simple piece of information can sometimes feel like a mystery. Don’t worry; this blog will help you get the site URL in WordPress. Let’s begin with how Site URL differs from WordPress URL.

Site URL vs WordPress URL

When it comes to WordPress websites, there are two types of URLs and they both sound similar: site URL and WordPress URL. While they’re both important for your website, they serve distinct purposes. Let me break down the difference.

Site URL is the public-facing address that a visitor would use to access your website through their browser. It’s also the one that is typically shared on social media, business cards, and other promotional materials.

For example, let’s say your website is called ABC Avenue. Then your site URL might be “abcavenue.com”.

WordPress URL, on the other hand, is where the files from your WordPress directory structure (like wp-admin and wp-content) are installed on your web server. Basically, it’s the “backend” address, used internally by WordPress to function properly.

This URL might be the same as your site URL if WordPress is installed in the root directory of your website. But if you install WordPress in a subfolder, then the URL will be something different.

You can find both the Site URL and the WordPress URL in the ‘General Settings’ section of your WordPress settings. For now, we will focus on the Site URL.

How to Get Site URL in WordPress?

WordPress is regarded as the best CMS, and one of reasons behind that is its user-friendliness. And that transcends into something as simple as finding the site URL. There are two ways to get the site URL in WordPress.

Method 1: Using the WordPress Dashboard

The first, more straightforward method is through the dashboard.

Step 1: Log into the WordPress admin dashboard.

Step 2: Navigate to Settings > General.

Step 3: Under the Site Address (URL) field, you’ll see your website’s complete site URL, including the protocol (http:// or https://).

This is the address you’ll use for linking and sharing your website.

Method 2: Employing a Theme Function

While not always necessary, you can also retrieve your site URL within the WordPress theme files using a built-in function. This can be helpful if you’re building custom functionalities or themes. Here’s how:

Step 1: Within your theme’s code, locate a template file where you want the site URL to appear (e.g., functions.php).

Step 2: Add the following code snippet:

<?php

echo get_site_url();

?>

This code snippet retrieves your site URL and displays it wherever you place it within your theme files.

Reasons to Look for Site URL in WordPress

Knowing your site URL is crucial for various tasks that keep your WordPress website running smoothly. Here are some key reasons why you might need to find your site URL:

• Creating Links: You’ll constantly be adding links within your WordPress content, whether it’s linking to internal pages, external resources, or your social media profiles. Having your site URL readily available ensures these links point to the correct location.
• Sharing Your Site: Whether it’s on social media, business cards, or email signatures, you’ll need your site URL to direct visitors to your website.
• Setting Up Plugins and Themes: Many plugins and themes require you to enter your site URL during configuration. This allows them to function properly within the context of your specific website.
• Troubleshooting Issues: Occasionally, you might encounter errors or unexpected behavior on your website. Knowing your site URL can be helpful when seeking solutions or contacting support, as it allows them to understand your website’s specific setup.
• Customizing Website Elements: Some advanced customization within WordPress themes or plugins might involve referencing your site URL. For instance, you might need it to set up a custom favicon (the small icon displayed in the browser tab).

In essence, your site URL acts as the foundation for everything you do on your WordPress website. It’s the unique identifier that connects visitors, tools, and functionalities to your online presence. For the best customizations on your website, consult with our WordPress development company.

FAQs on Site URL in WordPress

Conclusion

Finding your WordPress site URL is a fundamental step in managing your website. This URL acts as the cornerstone for linking, sharing, and configuring various elements within your WordPress environment.

The simpler method of finding the site URL is through the dashboard, in the General Settings. Those with more advanced expertise can also access the theme files and find the URL through the code snippet get_site_url().

So, after you have found the site URL, consult with our WordPress experts and we’ll help you with the best features and design on the website.