WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems (CMS) in the world. Many people use it to create blogs, business sites, or online stores. It comes with everything – a dashboard, a theme, and tools to add content. However, as websites evolve and technology advances, some individuals require greater flexibility. That’s where WordPress Headless comes in.
In this article, you will learn about WordPress Headless.
What Does WordPress Headless Mean?
To understand headless WordPress, you must first know how a normal WordPress site works. A regular WordPress site has two main parts:
- The backend: where you write posts, manage pages, and add media
- The frontend: what visitors see – your website’s layout and design
These two parts usually work together. WordPress handles both the content and the design.
Now, imagine cutting off the frontend part. You only use WordPress to manage your content. You build the frontend separately using other tools. That’s why it’s called “headless” – because the “head” (the design layer) is removed.
Why Use Headless WordPress?
You may wonder why the front end should be removed. Why make things more complex?
Here are some simple reasons why people choose a headless setup:
1. More Speed
A headless site loads faster. You can use modern tools to build a faster frontend.
2. Full Control
You can design your site exactly the way you want. WordPress themes or plugins do not limit you.
3. Multi-Platform
You can display your content on websites, mobile apps, smart TVs, or any device that connects to the internet.
4. Better Security
Your WordPress admin panel and your website live separately. This can reduce the chances of hacks.
How Headless WordPress Works
In a headless setup, WordPress still stores your content. You log in to the WordPress admin panel, create posts, and add images just like before.
But instead of using WordPress themes to show the content, you connect it with another tool or framework. This is done using something called REST API or GraphQL.
Think of it like this:
WordPress is your content warehouse.
Your frontend tool goes to that warehouse, grabs and displays the content.
Standard Frontend Tools for Headless WordPress
Here are some tools people use to build the frontend in a headless setup:
- React – A fast and popular JavaScript library
- Next.js – A framework built on React, great for SEO and speed
- Vue.js – Another tool like React, but with a different style
- Gatsby – A tool that builds fast, static websites
You can choose any of these tools to display your content in the way you want.
When Should You Use Headless WordPress?
Headless WordPress is not for everyone. Here’s when you should think about it:
You should use headless WordPress if:
- You want a speedy website
- You want complete design control
- You want to use the duplicate content on different platforms (like a website and an app)
- You have a developer or team who knows how to build frontends
You should NOT use headless WordPress if:
- You want to keep things simple
- You are not comfortable with coding
- You like using WordPress themes and plugins
Pros and Cons of Headless WordPress
Pros:
- Super fast websites
- Custom design and layout
- Better performance for large websites
- Use content in many places (web, apps, smart devices)
Cons:
- More setup work
- You need a developer
- More complicated to manage for beginners
- Some plugins may not work as expected
How to Set Up a Headless WordPress Site
Here’s a simple overview of the steps:
Step 1: Set up WordPress
Install WordPress like you usually do. Use it to add content.
Step 2: Enable the API
Ensure the REST API is functioning correctly. WordPress provides it by default. If you prefer GraphQL, you can use plugins like WPGraphQL.
Step 3: Choose Your Frontend Tool
Select a tool such as React, Next.js, or Gatsby. Set up the front end on a separate server or host.
Step 4: Connect the Frontend with WordPress
Utilize the API to retrieve content from WordPress and display it on your website.
Step 5: Design Your Site
Build your frontend the way you want. Add pages, blog layouts, and contact forms.
Do Big Brands Use Headless WordPress?
Yes. Many big companies use headless WordPress to power their content. Some examples include:
- TechCrunch
- The New York Times
- Spotify
- Harvard University
They use WordPress because it’s easy to manage content. They go headless for speed and design freedom.
Should You Switch to Headless?
Headlessness may be too much if you are a solo business owner or a beginner. A standard WordPress setup will work well for most people.
Going headless is worth exploring if you run a large website, care deeply about speed, or want to use a single content source for multiple apps.
Final Thoughts
Headless WordPress gives you freedom and control. It separates the back end from the front end. This setup is best for advanced users and developers who want to create modern, fast, and flexible websites