While having programming experience (especially in PHP) can be advantageous, it’s not mandatory. WordPress allows you to build websites using themes and plugins that don’t require extensive coding knowledge. However, understanding PHP and JavaScript can greatly enhance your ability to customize and extend WordPress functionalities.

WordPress.org provides the selfhosted version of WordPress, where you have full control over your website. You need your own domain and web hosting. WordPress.com, on the other hand, is a hosted platform where WordPress handles hosting and domain for you, but with less flexibility in customization and plugin use.

Securing your WordPress website involves several steps:

• Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated regularly.
• Use strong passwords and limit login attempts.
• Install security plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri.
• Enable HTTPS with an SSL certificate.
• Backup your site regularly and use security measures provided by your hosting provider.

Optimizing your WordPress site for SEO involves:

• Choosing an SEOfriendly theme with clean code and responsive design.
• Installing an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO or All in One SEO Pack.
• Optimizing meta titles, descriptions, and permalinks for keywords.
• Creating highquality content with relevant keywords and proper headings.
• Improving site speed, mobilefriendliness, and user experience.