When you first install a new WordPress website, one of the most basic — yet often overlooked — tasks is updating the site name and tagline (description). This may seem like a small detail, but it plays an important role in shaping your website’s identity. The site name appears in the browser tab, in search engine results, and often in the header or footer of your site, depending on the theme you’re using.
Despite its importance, many WordPress beginners may not know where to find this setting — especially since it’s not located under themes or appearance settings.
Why Change the Site Name and Tagline?
- Brand Identity: Your site name is often the first thing visitors and search engines see.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): A relevant site title and description can help with search rankings.
- Professionalism: Default titles like “My WordPress Site” can look unprofessional if left unchanged.
- Clarity: It tells visitors what your site is about at a glance.
How to Change the Site Name and Tagline in WordPress
Follow these simple steps to update your site’s name and tagline:
- Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard (
yourdomain.com/wp-admin). - From the left-hand menu, go to Settings > General.
- At the top of the General Settings page, you’ll see two key fields:
- Site Title – This is your website’s main name. You can change it to reflect your brand, business, or project.
- Tagline – This is a short description or slogan that briefly describes what your website is about. (e.g., “Just another WordPress site” can be changed to something more relevant like “Your trusted source for tech news.”)
- Once you’ve entered your new site name and tagline, scroll down and click the Save Changes button.
That’s It!
Your WordPress site title and tagline will now be updated across your website. Depending on your theme, these may show up in your site’s header, footer, or even within meta tags used by search engines.
Taking a minute to change these two fields can go a long way in making your site look more professional, branded, and trustworthy — especially to first-time visitors. It’s a small step with a big impact, and a perfect starting point for building a strong online presence with WordPress.