The Tools I Use to Build, Rank and Protect Websites
Hosting, themes, plugins and SEO software I rely on for client work. Some links may be affiliate links; that never decides what I recommend.
Hosting and infrastructure
- CloudflareDNS, CDN, firewall and edge hosting. This site runs on it.
- InMotion Hosting (VPS & shared)Dependable VPS and shared plans for WordPress sites.
- WP EngineManaged WordPress hosting when traffic grows.
- Bunny CDNInexpensive global delivery for images and files.
- BackblazeOff-site storage where backups live.
WordPress themes and builders
- Kadence ProLight, fast theme and blocks I reach for first.
- Astra ProFlexible theme with plenty of starter layouts.
- Beaver BuilderA builder that clients can edit without breaking pages.
- Divi / Elegant ThemesVisual builder with a big design library.
- Avada / ThemeForestMarketplace for premium WordPress themes.
Plugins
- Gravity FormsForms with logic, payments and integrations.
- WP RocketPage caching and front-end speed tuning.
- Solid Security ProLogin protection, two-factor and hardening.
- Solid Backups (BackupBuddy)Scheduled backups sent off the server.
- SucuriWeb application firewall and malware cleanup.
- LearnDashOnline courses inside WordPress.
- OptinMonsterPop-ups and sign-up forms that convert.
- Meta BoxCustom fields and content types.
- Envira Gallery & SoliloquyGalleries and sliders that stay light.
- Schema ProStructured data without hand-coding.
SEO software
- SemrushKeyword research, site audits and competitor data.
- Mangools / KWFinderStraightforward, low-cost keyword research.
- SEOPress ProA lean SEO plugin for WordPress.
- Yoast SEOThe best-known WordPress SEO plugin.
- All in One SEOFeature-rich WordPress SEO plugin.
- True RankerKeeps an eye on rankings over time.
Running the business
- ShopifyHosted store platform for product sellers.
- Deon Local Business DirectoryThe local business directory I run.
- Google WorkspaceEmail on your own domain, plus documents.
- Microsoft 365Email and Office apps for teams.
- CanvaFast social graphics and simple visuals.
- SyncEncrypted file storage and sharing.
- ContactOutFinding the right business contact.
See the affiliate disclosure.
Want help choosing the right tools?
A few lines about your site and what is bothering you is enough. You will get a reply from me within one business day: what I would look at first, and what it would roughly involve.