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WordPress - Activate Network

WordPress now offers the same functionality as WordPress Multi User (called a network), so we will be working to setup a network using WordPress. Let's get started.

Step 1: Add a Wildcard Subdomain

Inside of Plesk, select the domain you wish to use. Under the Web Site area, click DNS Settings. Click Add Record.

We will be adding a CNAME (or canonical name) so select CNAME from the drop down menu for Record type. Enter as follows:

Enter domain name: *
Enter a canonical name: yourdomain.ext

Click OK.

Your changes have not yet been implemented. Clicking Update will do this.

Step 2: Edit wp-config.php

You will need to add a line of code to the wp-config.php file. So open the file on the server using your FTP program. The line below should be placed just above where it says /* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */.

define('WP_ALLOW_MULTISITE', true);

Save the file and place back on the server.

Step 3: Set Up the Network

Inside the WordPress control panel, hover over Tools in the left hand navigation and a downward arrow appears. Click the arrow to expand the Tools section. Click Network.

You will have a choice as to how you wish to have the network setup. It is recommended you choose sub-domains to use the wildcard subdomain. Click Install.

Step 4: Enable the Network

You will be presented with several items upon clicking Install. First, you will be asked to backup the wp-config.php and .htaccess. This is important in case anything goes wrong and is highly recommended.

Next you will be asked to create a blogs.dir folder. This can be done using FTP.

Finally you will be provided with code to place in the wp-config.php (the first line we had to add to set up the network so far) and in .htaccess.

Note: WordPress does not seem to come with a .htaccess file. You will need to create one. Use this tutorial if you need assistance creating one.

Once this is all completed, add new sites using the Super Admin menu > Sites.