What is the functions.php File in WordPress?
What is functions.php?
In WordPress, functions.php or the theme functions file is a template included in WordPress themes. It acts like a plugin for your WordPress site that’s automatically activated with your current theme. The functions.php file uses PHP code to add features or change default features on a WordPress site.
For example, a WordPress theme might add a bit of code to the theme’s functions.php file in order to add a new widget area to the footer, or add a custom welcome message to the WordPress dashboard. The possibilities are endless!
Why PHP Is Important for Website Owners
You don’t need to be a PHP master in order to run a successful WordPress website. The great thing about opting for WordPress as your CMS is that the majority of the PHP is already written for you. In fact, most WordPress users never learn how to write or understand this popular programming language.
However, there are some benefits to learning PHP. Out of the box, WordPress is a powerful and flexible CMS, but there may come a time when the built-in options aren’t enough.
If you want to modify WordPress’ core behaviors, some basic PHP skills can help you create more complex and unique customizations. In particular, WordPress supports a number of hooks, classes, and marketing functions that you can use to extend this digital platform in new and exciting ways.
How to find functions.php?
It is not difficult at all to find the functions.php file. In fact, there is more than one way to do it. The first is through the WordPress editor itself. You will need to access your dashboard and find the “theme editor” option in the left sidebar.
On the right, you will see an extensive list of files. Look for the file functions.php, which appears under the name of Theme Functions.
By clicking it, you will be redirected to functions.php code editor, where you can manually enter the commands you want.
The other way to find the file is through the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). Just connect to the server and navigate to wp-content/themes/<your-theme>/
Functions.php vs WordPress Plugins
There are advantages and compromises to using a functions.php rather than a WordPress plugin
A functions.php file:
- Requires no unique header text
- Is stored in the theme’s subdirectory in wp-content/themes
- Executes only when in the active theme’s directory
- Applies only to that theme (if the theme is changed, you can no longer use the features)
- Can have numerous blocks of code used for many marketing purposes
A WordPress plugin:
- Requires specific, unique header text
- Is stored in wp-content/plugins, usually in a subdirectory
- Only executes on page load when activated
- Applies to all themes
- Should have a single purpose – e.g., offer SEO features or help with backups
Take Note: Use functions.php With Caution
If you decide to edit your functions.php file, use utmost caution for the following reasons:
- First, edits to the functions file will be lost when the theme is updated.
- Second, modifications will be lost if you change your WordPress theme.
- Finally, making coding errors in the functions file can lock you out of your digital site.