What Are WordPress Roles and Permissions?
WordPress roles and permissions control what each user can and cannot do on your website. Instead of giving every user full access, WordPress allows you to assign specific capabilities based on their role.
This system helps you:
- Protect your website from mistakes
- Improve security
- Manage teams efficiently
- Control content publishing
- Limit access to sensitive settings
Whether you run a blog, business website, membership platform, or WooCommerce store, understanding WordPress user roles is essential.
Default WordPress User Roles Explained
WordPress includes six built-in user roles.
1. Administrator
The Administrator has complete control over the website.
Administrators can:
- Install plugins
- Change themes
- Add or delete users
- Edit all posts and pages
- Manage settings
- Access every area of WordPress
Best for:
- Website owners
- Main developers
- Trusted site managers
2. Editor
Editors can manage and publish content created by all users.
Editors can:
- Edit all posts/pages
- Publish content
- Moderate comments
- Manage categories and tags
Editors cannot:
- Install plugins
- Change themes
- Access core settings
Best for:
- Content managers
- Editorial teams
3. Author
Authors can create and publish their own content.
Authors can:
- Write posts
- Upload media
- Publish their own articles
- Edit their own published posts
Authors cannot edit other users’ content.
Best for:
- Regular blog contributors
- Staff writers
4. Contributor
Contributors can write content but cannot publish it.
Contributors can:
- Create posts
- Edit their own drafts
Contributors cannot:
- Publish posts
- Upload media files
Best for:
- Guest writers
- Occasional contributors
5. Subscriber
Subscribers have the most limited access.
Subscribers can:
- Manage their profile
- Read content
- Comment on posts (if enabled)
Best for:
- Membership websites
- Online communities
6. Super Admin (Multisite Only)
In WordPress Multisite networks, the Super Admin controls all websites in the network.
WordPress User Roles Comparison Table
| Role | Publish Posts | Edit Others’ Posts | Install Plugins | Change Themes | Manage Users |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Administrator | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Editor | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Author | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Contributor | No | No | No | No | No |
| Subscriber | No | No | No | No | No |
Why WordPress User Roles Matter
Proper user role management helps:
- Prevent accidental website damage
- Improve WordPress security
- Reduce unauthorized access
- Streamline team collaboration
- Organize content workflows
For example:
- Writers should not install plugins
- Clients should not edit theme files
- Customers should not access admin settings
Custom WordPress Roles and Capabilities
Sometimes default WordPress roles are not enough.
You may need custom roles for:
- SEO managers
- Shop managers
- Course instructors
- Membership managers
- Support agents
Popular plugins allow you to customize capabilities easily.
Best Plugins for Managing WordPress Roles and Permissions
User Role Editor
One of the most popular role management plugins.
Features:
- Edit user capabilities
- Create custom roles
- Restrict admin access
- Fine-tune permissions
Members Plugin
A beginner-friendly plugin for managing permissions.
Features:
- Role editor
- Content restriction
- Custom capabilities
- Membership controls
PublishPress Capabilities
Advanced permissions management for professional websites.
Features:
- Custom permissions
- WooCommerce integration
- Multisite support
- User role backup
How to Change User Roles in WordPress
Step 1: Open Users Menu
Go to:
Dashboard → Users → All Users
Step 2: Select a User
Hover over the username and click:
Edit
Step 3: Change the Role
Locate the:
Role dropdown menu
Choose the desired role.
Step 4: Save Changes
Click:
Update User
Best Practices for WordPress Permissions
Use the Principle of Least Privilege
Only give users the permissions they absolutely need.
Avoid Multiple Administrators
Too many admins increase security risks.
Remove Inactive Users
Delete unused accounts regularly.
Use Strong Passwords
Secure accounts with strong passwords and 2FA.
Audit User Permissions Regularly
Review roles every few months.
Common WordPress Role Mistakes
Giving Everyone Administrator Access
This is one of the biggest WordPress security mistakes.
Forgetting to Remove Old Contributors
Inactive accounts can become security vulnerabilities.
Installing Untrusted Role Plugins
Always use reputable plugins from trusted developers.
WooCommerce User Roles
WooCommerce adds additional roles such as:
- Customer
- Shop Manager
Shop Manager Permissions
Shop Managers can:
- Manage orders
- View reports
- Manage products
But they cannot:
- Install plugins
- Change themes
Membership Site Permissions
Membership plugins often create additional user roles.
Examples:
- Premium Member
- Course Student
- VIP Subscriber
These roles help restrict content access based on subscriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest WordPress role?
Subscriber is the safest because it has minimal permissions.
Can I create custom WordPress roles?
Yes. Plugins like User Role Editor and Members make this easy.
Which role should writers have?
Authors or Contributors are usually best.
Can Editors manage plugins?
No. Only Administrators can install or manage plugins.
What happens if I delete an Administrator?
WordPress lets you transfer content ownership before deletion.
Final Thoughts
Understanding WordPress roles and permissions is essential for website security, content management, and team collaboration.
By assigning the correct user roles:
- Your website becomes safer
- Your workflow becomes more efficient
- Your content management becomes easier
Whether you run a simple blog or a large business website, mastering WordPress permissions will help you manage your site professionally.