---
title: "Installing a New Theme"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/software/learndash/academy/installing-a-new-theme/"
description: "[wp101 video=\"install-theme\"] In this video, the instructor shows how to completely change the design of your WordPress site by managing and installing new them…"
vertical: "Software"
area: "Academy"
topics: ["Customizing", "Getting Started", "How To", "Videos", "WordPress 101"]
date: "2023-02-22"
last_modified: "2023-02-22"
---

# Installing a New Theme

\[wp101 video=”install-theme”\]

In this video, the instructor shows how to completely change the design of your WordPress site by managing and installing new themes.

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#### **1. What Themes Do**

- Themes control your site’s **layout, colors, and typography**.
- Switching to a new theme can **instantly transform your site’s design**.
- Thousands of free and premium themes are available for all types of sites.

---

#### **2. Managing Installed Themes**

- From the Dashboard, go to **Appearance > Themes**.
- The **active theme** is highlighted at the top.
- Other installed themes are displayed alongside it.
- Options include: 
    - **Theme Details** – view info about the theme.
    - Launch **Customizer**, edit **Widgets**, **Menus**, or **Background** (if supported).
    - Use **arrow buttons** to cycle through installed themes.
    - **Live Preview** – see how your site would look before activating.

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#### **3. Activating a Theme**

- After previewing and adjusting settings, click **Activate & Publish** to apply the theme to your live site.

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#### **4. Adding a New Theme**

- On the Themes page, click **Add New**.
- Options include: 
    - **Browse Free Themes** – directly from the WordPress.org theme directory.
    - **Search and Filter** – by layout, features, or subject.
    - **Preview and Install** – try themes instantly with one click.

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#### **5. Using Premium/Commercial Themes**

- Premium themes often offer: 
    - More features
    - Professional design
    - Dedicated support
- To install: 
    - Upload the **.zip file** from the theme shop.
    - Preview it in Live Preview.
    - Customize settings as needed.
    - **Activate & Publish** when ready.

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### **Key Takeaway:**

With thousands of free and premium themes available, WordPress makes it simple to transform your site’s design for **any purpose**—whether it’s a blog, business website, or online store. All it takes is installing, previewing, and activating the theme that fits your vision.