Like many people using WordPress, you may have been happily using the plugin “Display Widgets”. Me too! So you can imagine my dismay at learning this plugin was recently removed from the WordPress Plugin Repository because it has been compromised. While the latest update of the plugin (version 2.7) is safe to use, I have been unsuccessful in getting this update to “take”. It looks like the plugin updates but when I go back to check the version it is still the older version. Not good!
What is Display Widgets?
This plugin gives you the option to select which widgets you want to display on both a page by page basis as well as by device (mobile vs. desktop). It has always performed impeccably and has been maintained well. Unfortunately, the developer recently sold it and the new version is not secure.
How do I know if Display Widgets is installed on my site?
You will know this plugin is installed on your site by logging in, going to the Appearance tab > plugins (all), and looking for it in the list. All plugins are listed alphabetically.
Okay, I see I have this plugin, now what do I do?
First of all, the plugin needs to be deleted. However, if you just go in and delete the plugin all of its settings will be removed. This means all of your widgets will display on all of your pages and posts. If this is fine with you, go ahead and delete the plugin now. Be sure to back up your site when you’re done.
If you need to replace Display Widgets, there are two plugins you can use.
Each one has some differences so read on to determine which (or both) are appropriate for your needs.
Option 1: JetPack
Jetpack is a plugin created and maintained by the developers at Automattic. It has over 1 million downloads and is very robust.
Pros:
» Jetpack’s widget visibility function is very user user-friendly and easy to navigate.
» You set visibility directly from the widget settings page.
» This plugin offers more functionality than just widget control which many people enjoy.
» You might already have this plugin installed on your site.
Cons:
» It does not include the option to display/hide widgets based on the device (mobile vs. desktop).
» If you do not have an account at WordPress.com you will need to set one up.
Summary: I recommend this plugin but you may need to also use Dynamic Widgets if you need to specify widget visibility based on devices.
Option 2: Dynamic Widgets
Dynamic Widgets has 80,000 downloads and offers many options for visibility of your widgets.
Pros:
» It includes the option to show/hide widgets on mobile devices.
Cons:
» You have to go to a separate settings page to set up your widget visibility.
» The interface is confusing.
Summary: I would only use this plugin if you need device control and then I would still use Jetpack as my primary control tool and Dynamic Widgets only for those widgets that you want to show/hide on mobile.
Below are the steps to replace Display Widgets with another plugin
Step 1: Back up your site
Step 2: Check to see if JetPack is already installed on your site.
Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins and scan the list (just like you did to see if Display Widgets was installed).
If it is already installed make make sure it is activated. If it is not, click “activate” located under the plugin name. (see image below)
Step 3: Set up Jetpack and set the visibility of your widgets
Step 4 (optional): Set up Dynamic Widgets if you need it
Step 5: Deactivate & Delete Display Widgets (if you haven’t already done so)
Step 6: Backup your site again.
Woo hoo you’re done! 🙂
Now go do something FUN!