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When building a WordPress site, choosing the right plugins is crucial for both functionality and performance. While a page builder is essential, it’s far from the only tool needed. Over the years, I’ve refined my list of must-have top WordPress plugins that ensure smooth website operations. In this article, I’ll share the seven plugins I currently install on every WordPress website I build in 2025, plus two bonus plugins that I sometimes use depending on the project.
1. Admin and Site Enhancements
This relatively new plugin has become indispensable. Admin and Site Enhancements consolidates the functionality of several plugins I used to install individually. With it, you can duplicate pages or posts, replace media seamlessly across your entire site, and even customize the WordPress admin dashboard for a cleaner, more streamlined look. If you’re like me and prefer a minimalist admin area, this plugin is a game-changer.
2. Classic Editor
The Classic Editor plugin remains a go-to for many WordPress users who prefer the traditional page editing interface. While Gutenberg offers a lot of flexibility, some of my clients just need basic text and image options. That’s where Classic Editor comes in handy. It simplifies the editing process, making it more familiar and less overwhelming for non-technical users.
3. Independent Analytics
When it comes to website analytics, Independent Analytics is a great alternative to Google Analytics, especially for EU-based clients concerned with GDPR compliance. It provides a clean dashboard that displays key data such as visitor counts and page views without the complexity of setting up Google Analytics. If clients don’t explicitly request detailed Google Analytics data, this plugin is more than sufficient.
4. ManageWP Worker
This plugin connects your WordPress site to the ManageWP dashboard, where you can manage multiple websites with ease. ManageWP Worker offers automated backups, plugin updates, and detailed reports, making it a must-have for anyone managing several WordPress installations. I particularly like its automatic update feature, which keeps all plugins current without manual intervention.
5. Elementor and Elementor Pro
No list of top WordPress plugins would be complete without Elementor. As one of the most powerful page builders, Elementor allows for easy design customization and integrates beautifully with other tools like Crocoblock. I always install the Pro version because the extra features make a significant difference in most projects.
6. Solid Security (formerly iThemes)
Solid Security is my go-to for website protection. While Wordfence is a popular security option, I find it too bulky. Solid Security is lighter and more efficient, offering all the protection most websites need. Remember, security starts with your hosting provider, so don’t skimp on a good hosting company.
7. LiteSpeed Cache
LiteSpeed Cache is my preferred plugin for website speed optimization, especially if your hosting provider uses LiteSpeed technology (as many do). While a speed optimization plugin won’t fix a poorly built website, LiteSpeed Cache can be an excellent add-on to enhance performance, especially when used in combination with good development practices and high-quality hosting.
Bonus Plugins
- ACF (Advanced Custom Fields): This plugin allows for advanced customization of posts and pages with custom fields. Now with support for custom post types, it’s even more powerful.
- White Label CMS: If you need to customize the backend experience for clients, White Label CMS allows you to add custom logos and branding to the WordPress dashboard. While not always necessary, it’s a nice touch when providing a polished product.
Conclusion
These top WordPress plugins are essential for building efficient, secure, and high-performing websites in 2025. By keeping your plugin list focused and only adding what’s necessary, you can avoid plugin bloat and ensure a better experience for both you and your clients. As always, make sure your hosting provider is top-notch, as many performance and security issues can be prevented by quality hosting from the start.