Here are 10 best free plugins/widgets you can add to your website — great for boosting functionality, engagement and conversions. I’ve explained what each one is good for and some tips on using them smartly.
| # | Plugin / Widget | Why it’s good | Tips for best use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rank Math SEO | A powerful SEO plugin that gives you many features even in the free version: on-page SEO, schema, sitemaps. NewTechyTips+1 | Set up correct titles & meta descriptions, use its schema features, don’t overload with unused features. |
| 2 | Elementor (Free / Page Builder) | Lets you build nice looking pages and add widgets visually without heavy coding. NewTechyTips+1 | Use it for key landing pages, keep the layout simple for mobile, avoid too many heavy widgets which slow page. |
| 3 | WPForms Lite (or similar form plugin) | Enables you to add contact forms, lead capture, etc easily. NewTechyTips | Use a short form (name + email) for highest conversions, integrate it with your email list or CRM. |
| 4 | Wordfence Security | Helps protect your site from hacks, malware and brute force attacks. NewTechyTips+1 | After installing, schedule regular scans, enforce strong passwords, and keep plugin updated. |
| 5 | UpdraftPlus | A backup plugin so you’re safe if something goes wrong. GratisVPS+1 | Set automated backups (e.g., weekly), store backups offsite (Dropbox, Google Drive), test the restore once. |
| 6 | Smush Image Compression (or another image optimiser) | Helps with site speed by compressing & optimising images. interviewbuzz | Optimise before upload, lazy‐load large images, check speeds on mobile. |
| 7 | LiteSpeed Cache (or caching plugin) | Speed matters for SEO + user experience; caching reduces load times. NewTechyTips+1 | Configure caching carefully (minify CSS/JS, avoid conflicts with other plugins), test site after changes. |
| 8 | Really Simple SSL | Sets up secure HTTPS for your site easily – security + trust boost. interviewbuzz | Make sure your hosting supports SSL, after switching run a site-wide test to ensure no “mixed content” warnings. |
| 9 | Redirection | Helps you set up 301 redirects, fix broken links, maintain site health & SEO. interviewbuzz | Whenever you change page URL, use this plugin to redirect old URL to new one — keeps “link juice” intact. |
| 10 | Chaty (floating chat / social contact widget) | Makes it easy for visitors to contact you via WhatsApp, Messenger etc — improves conversions. WordPress.com+1 | Place the chat widget in the lower corner, make the call to action clear (“Chat with us”), but don’t make it intrusive. |
✅ Why these plugins/widgets matter
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They cover critical website needs: SEO, speed, security, lead capture, conversion, visuals.
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They are free versions, so low cost for you (good for blogs, small business sites).
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They improve user experience, which in turn helps digital marketing and SEO.
⚠️ Some cautions & best practices
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Don’t install too many plugins: Every plugin adds load and risk. Use only ones you really need.
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Update regularly: Free doesn’t mean “set and forget”. Security patches and bug fixes matter.
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Test after adding a plugin: Especially check page loading speed, mobile view, plugin conflicts.
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Avoid plugin overload: For example, if your page builder has built-in features, don’t add dozens of addons; pick only the ones you’ll use.
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Backup before major changes: Especially when installing new plugins or theme changes.
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