Hi everyone:

As a Wordpress "junky" I can safely say that as good as Wordpress is by it's self, It REALLY takes off when you add plug-ins. Here's a list of some of my favourite plug-ins and why

Note: Before we start the list, a few words of caution about plug-ins.

• Only use free plug-ins from reliable sources. That would be Wordpress.org! http://wordpress.org/
• Plug-in's use CPU resources once installed - even when they're deactivated, so if you don't use or need a plug-in, uninstall/delete it
• The easiest way to install plug-ins is through your Wordpress Dashboard - just click on "Plugins" - "New" and use the search feature for the names in the list below

Wordpress Plug-ins You'll Love:

1. Akismet - Fights spam in your "comment" fields, etc. A MUST have! http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/akismet/

2. Quick Cache - Take the load off your Lunarpages shared host server. Creates HTML cached pages that are regularly renewed. Serves those cached HTML pages to visitors Significantly reduces calls to your Wordpress database. WP-Super cache is also a fine caching plug-in, but I find Quick Cache easier to use. http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/quick-cache/

3. All in One SEO Pack - If you're at all serious about SEO for your site, you'll need All in One SEO Pack. It does it all and so elegantly!. http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/all-in-one-seo-pack/

4. Register Plus Redux - About 10 hours into your 1st Wordpress install and you'll realize you need a better, more complete process for your "users' to register to your website. Register Plus Redux does this and more.http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/register-plus-redux/

5. WP Security Scan - Every website/program can get hacked. Wordpress is no exception, but WP Security Scan really cuts down the odds. Install this plug-in 1st, before you do anything else. Run it and follow the suggestions given to make your Wordpress install secure as possible. http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/wp-security-scan/

6. Easy AdSense - Need ads on your site to generate a bit of cash (pay for your hosting?   ) - Easy AdSense is the way to go. Just sign up with Google, get your AdSense code, copy into your Wordpress AdSense plug-in and you're up and running ads where you want them. http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/easy-adsenser/

Well there you have it. My 6 top plug-ins for Wordpress. Of course I have more and would be happy to respond if someone has a request ! If you're a Wordpress person, you may have plug-ins you find useful too. Care to share?

One last note about plug-ins: Always keep them current (up-to-date) Most plug-in revision updates either fix code problems, security issues or bring the plug-in inline with the latest release of Wordpress itself.

Happy Wordpressing!

Ron