Using the Official WordPress Logo: Guidelines & Trademark
The WordPress logo, with its distinctive stylized “W” inside a circle, is one of the most recognized symbols on the web, representing the world’s most popular Content Management System. While the WordPress software itself is open source, the WordPress name and logo are protected trademarks owned by the WordPress Foundation. Understanding how and when you can use the official WordPress logo is crucial for anyone involved in the WordPress ecosystem, whether you’re a developer, designer, blogger, or business owner. Using the logo correctly shows respect for the project and avoids potential legal issues.
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Table of Contents
Where to Find the Official WordPress Logo
The only place to get the official, approved versions of the WordPress logo is the dedicated page on the WordPress.org website:
https://wordpress.org/about/logos/
This page provides the logo in various formats (including vector formats like AI and Sketch, as well as SVG and PNG) and color variations (blue, grey, black, white) suitable for different backgrounds and use cases. Always download the logo from this official source to ensure you are using an accurate and approved version.
Understanding the WordPress Trademark Policy
The usage of the WordPress name and logo is governed by the official WordPress Trademark Policy. It’s essential reading for anyone planning to use the logo or the name “WordPress” in their projects. The core purpose of the policy is to:
- Prevent confusion about which products or services are official WordPress Foundation projects.
- Ensure the WordPress brand maintains its identity and reputation.
- Protect the open-source nature of the project.
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Key Guidelines for Using the WordPress Logo & Name
While the full policy provides detailed specifics, here are some of the most important rules of thumb:
- Do Not Imply Official Endorsement: Your use of the logo or name should never suggest that your website, product, service, or company is officially endorsed, sponsored, or managed by the WordPress Foundation or the core WordPress project unless you have explicit permission (e.g., official WordCamp organizers).
- Avoid Using in Your Domain Name or Brand Name: Generally, you cannot use “WordPress” or derivations like “WP” directly in your main domain name (e.g., `bestwordpressplugins.com`) or your primary product/company name if it’s likely to cause confusion about the source. Descriptive use is usually okay (e.g., “ACME Plugins for WordPress”).
- Do Not Modify the Logo: Use the official logo files as provided. Do not stretch, squash, distort, recolor (beyond the official variations), add elements to, or otherwise alter the logo’s appearance.
- Distinguish Your Brand: Ensure your own branding is clearly distinct from the WordPress logo and branding.
- Permitted Uses (Generally):
- Using the logo to show support for the WordPress project (e.g., a “Powered by WordPress” graphic, often linked back to WordPress.org).
- Indicating compatibility, such as “Designed for WordPress” or “Works with WordPress.”
- Using the logo in articles, tutorials, or presentations *about* WordPress.
- Using the logo for local WordPress meetups or WordCamps (following specific event guidelines).
When in doubt, consult the full trademark policy or contact the WordPress Foundation.
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Conclusion: Respecting the Brand
The WordPress logo is a powerful symbol representing a global community and a leading open-source project. Using it correctly involves obtaining official versions from WordPress.org and adhering strictly to the WordPress Foundation’s trademark policy. The key is to avoid any usage that implies official endorsement or causes confusion between your project and the official WordPress project. By following the guidelines, you can show your support for WordPress while protecting the integrity of its valuable brand.
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