Accessing your WordPress dashboard is straightforward once you know where to look. This quick guide shows you exactly how to log in and what to do if you're having trouble.
The Standard WordPress Login URL
Your WordPress login page is located at one of these URLs:
- yoursite.com/wp-admin
- yoursite.com/wp-login.php
Replace "yoursite.com" with your actual domain. Both URLs lead to the same login screen.
Step-by-Step Login Process
- Open your web browser
- Type your domain followed by /wp-admin (e.g., example.com/wp-admin)
- Press Enter to load the login page
- Enter your username or email address
- Enter your password
- Click "Log In"
After successful login, you'll arrive at your WordPress dashboard—the control center for managing your site.
Staying Logged In
Check the "Remember Me" box before logging in to stay logged in on that device. This saves your session for 14 days, so you won't need to enter credentials each time.
Note: Only use "Remember Me" on personal, secure devices—never on shared or public computers.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
Forgot Your Password
- Click "Lost your password?" below the login form
- Enter your username or email address
- Check your email for a reset link
- Click the link and create a new password
If you don't receive the email, check spam/junk folders. Some hosts block WordPress password reset emails—contact your hosting provider if the issue persists.
Forgot Your Username
Try logging in with the email address associated with your account—WordPress accepts either username or email. If you've forgotten both, the password reset form also works with email addresses.
Login Page Not Loading
If the login page shows an error or won't load:
- Clear browser cache: Old cached files can cause issues
- Try a different browser: Rule out browser-specific problems
- Check your internet connection: Ensure you're online
- Verify the URL: Make sure you're typing it correctly
- Contact hosting support: Server issues may be blocking access
Correct Credentials But Can't Log In
If you're certain your credentials are correct but login fails:
- Caps Lock: Passwords are case-sensitive—check if Caps Lock is on
- Copy/paste errors: Pasted passwords sometimes include extra spaces
- Account disabled: An administrator may have deactivated your account
- Security plugin blocking: Some security plugins lock out after failed attempts
Too Many Failed Attempts
Security plugins often lock users out after multiple failed logins. Wait 15-30 minutes and try again, or contact your administrator to unlock your account.
Custom Login URLs
Some sites use security plugins that change the login URL. If /wp-admin doesn't work, check with whoever manages your website—they may have changed the login address for security.
Common security plugin alternatives:
- yoursite.com/login
- yoursite.com/admin
- Custom URLs set by the site owner
Accessing Your Dashboard After Login
Once logged in, you'll see the WordPress dashboard with:
- Left sidebar: Main navigation for all WordPress features
- Main area: Current section content and quick actions
- Top bar: Quick links, notifications, and account options
Essential Dashboard Areas
- Posts: Create and manage blog content
- Pages: Create and edit static pages
- Media: Upload and manage images and files
- Appearance: Customize your theme and design
- Plugins: Add and manage site functionality
- Settings: Configure site options
Logging Out
To log out:
- Hover over your name in the top-right corner
- Click "Log Out" in the dropdown menu
Always log out on shared or public computers to protect your site security.
Mobile Access
WordPress works on mobile browsers using the same login URLs. The dashboard automatically adjusts for smaller screens. For frequent mobile management, consider the official WordPress app available for iOS and Android.
Quick Reference
Login URL: yoursite.com/wp-admin
Password Reset: Click "Lost your password?" on login page
Stay Logged In: Check "Remember Me"
Log Out: Top-right corner → Log Out
Bookmark your login page for quick access. With these basics covered, you're ready to manage your WordPress site efficiently.