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WordPress Paywall

A custom WordPress paywall plugin to limit free articles, manage exclusions, and encourage subscriptions.

  • PHP
  • HTML
  • WooCommerce
  • JavaScript

About the Project

This WordPress plugin adds a paywall to websites, letting admins control how many free articles visitors can read. It tracks usage with cookies, so readers don’t need to register to be monitored. Admins can exclude certain categories from the paywall and even override global settings for individual posts.

When visitors reach their free article limit, they see a message inviting them to log in or subscribe to a plan. This feature makes it easy for sites to monetize their content while keeping the experience smooth for readers.

What Makes This Plugin Special

  • Customizable Settings: Admins can adjust the number of free articles, exclude specific categories, or set unique rules for individual posts.
  • Hassle-Free Tracking: Uses cookies to monitor free article limits without requiring readers to create accounts.
  • Encourages Subscriptions: Prompts users with a clear message when they reach the limit, nudging them to subscribe or log in.
  • Simple Admin Controls: Designed to make setup and management straightforward, even for non-technical users.

Overcoming Challenges

  • Balancing Flexibility and Simplicity: Built features to give admins control over the paywall without overwhelming them with technical complexity.
  • Reliable Tracking: Implemented a cookie-based system that works seamlessly across different browsers and devices.
  • User Engagement: Designed prompts and notifications that encourage subscriptions without disrupting the browsing experience.
  • Integration with WordPress: Ensured the plugin works smoothly with any WordPress theme or setup, regardless of site size or complexity.

The Results

This custom paywall plugin provides a simple and effective way for websites to earn money from their content:

  • Boosts Subscriptions: By limiting free articles, it encourages readers to subscribe, helping websites turn visitors into paying customers.
  • Easy to Customize: Admins can easily exclude certain categories from the paywall or set special rules for individual articles, making it flexible for any content strategy.
  • User-Friendly: The plugin tracks free articles using cookies, so readers don’t need to sign up just to browse. When they hit the limit, they’re shown a clear message inviting them to subscribe or log in.
  • Keeps Readers Engaged: The notifications are designed to encourage action without interrupting the reading experience, creating a smooth and professional user experience.

This plugin helps websites balance free content with paid access, making it an ideal tool for sites looking to grow their subscription base.