[Diana Kathryn Plopa]

I currently have a blog at WordPress (free version) can I use BuddyPress with that? Or do I need to start over? If yes, how do I integrate the two?

If no, how and where do I get the easy install to make it happen? The automatic install doesn’t exist on the download page.

[LPH2005]

Hi, welcome to BuddyPress.

BuddyPress is a WordPress plugin and available for download within your WP admin panel. Within plugins, click on “add new” and search for buddypress. You can install it from there.

BuddyPress Documentation: https://codex.buddypress.org/home/

Also, there are a few things to be aware of – depending upon the version of WordPress and Hosting. For example, in your .htaccess, you may need to increase the amount of memory alloted to php.

A few steps and cautions
1. Make sure you have the database and files backed up.
2. If possible, practice on a local site or developer site before you try this on your live site.
3. Deactivate your other plugins first.
4. Check your permalink structure
5. Download and activate the buddypress plugin.
6. A new panel should appear in your WP-admin panel
7. Activate the default buddypress theme.
8. Activate forums (if you are interested)
9. Test your site
10. Activate one plugin at a time – and verify the site after each activation

Come here and find extensions – ask questions – etc

[Andrea Rennick]

If your blog is at wordpress.COM you can’t install plugins.

[LPH2005]

If your blog is at wordpress.COM you can’t install plugins. – I didn’t know that. This notice: http://en.support.wordpress.com/plugins/