I put together this video to walk you through the essential WordPress plugins I install on every single new site I build — whether it’s a content site, affiliate blog, or personal project.

These aren’t random tools. They’re plugins I’ve battle-tested across dozens of sites, and I always install them right out of the gate. They handle performance, design, security, tracking, and even monetization. If you’re building a fresh WordPress site, this is the stack I’d recommend starting with.

Let’s break them down one by one.

1. WP Rocket – Site Speed Without the Headache

This is the first plugin I install for performance.

WP Rocket handles:

  • Caching

  • GZIP compression

  • Lazy loading

  • Database optimization

  • Preloading for Googlebot

No confusing setup, no conflicting plugin combo. You turn it on, tweak a few settings, and you’re done. It’s a paid plugin, but absolutely worth it — especially if you care about site speed, Core Web Vitals, and SEO.

In the video, I show how just activating WP Rocket shaved seconds off page loads across one of my affiliate sites.

2. AAWP – Clean, Stylish Amazon Affiliate Boxes

If you’re doing any kind of Amazon affiliate content, AAWP (Amazon Affiliate WordPress Plugin) is a game-changer.

It lets you:

  • Create product boxes

  • Insert comparison tables

  • Add bestseller lists or new releases

It pulls data directly from the Amazon API — including images, ratings, and prices — and updates automatically.

The boxes look professional and convert much better than basic text links. I use it on most of my niche and authority sites where Amazon is a revenue source.

3. Sucuri Security – Protection Against Malware & Hacks

Security is non-negotiable. I use Sucuri for:

  • Malware scanning

  • Firewall hardening

  • Login attempt monitoring

  • Security activity logging

It’s lightweight, well-maintained, and works well even if you’re using Cloudflare or a managed host like Cloudways.

I walk through how I set up basic protections in the video — it only takes a few minutes, but it can save you hours (or days) cleaning up a hacked site.

4. MonsterInsights – Google Analytics, Made Easy

MonsterInsights connects your site to Google Analytics without touching code.

It helps you:

  • Track real user behavior

  • Enable enhanced ecommerce

  • Monitor affiliate link clicks (especially helpful if you’re using cloaked links)

There’s a free version that’s great to start with. I upgrade for some sites where I want event tracking or author-specific traffic insights.

It also helps with compliance — easy toggles for GDPR and cookie notices.

5. Code Snippets – Customize Without Editing theme files

Rather than editing your functions.php file (which can break your site if you slip), Code Snippets lets you safely run PHP snippets inside WordPress.

I use it for:

  • Removing Gutenberg blocks on certain post types

  • Adding custom shortcodes

  • Tweaking WooCommerce layouts

  • Disabling emojis, RSS feeds, or comment styles

You name it — if it’s a quick code fix, I use Code Snippets to handle it cleanly.

6. Elementor – Visual Builder for Pages That Convert

Elementor is one of the most popular page builders, and for good reason.

It gives you:

  • Drag-and-drop layout design

  • Full-width sections

  • Beautiful call-to-action blocks

  • Easy mobile responsiveness

I use Elementor on homepages, landing pages, and even opt-in forms. It’s super beginner-friendly but powerful enough for advanced design control.

If you’re not a developer, Elementor bridges the gap beautifully.

7. Classic Editor – Because Sometimes Gutenberg Is Overkill

For all the improvements Gutenberg has made, I still prefer the Classic Editor for writing most blog posts — especially long-form ones.

It’s cleaner, faster, and less distracting.

The Classic Editor plugin lets you switch back with one click and avoid the block-based interface if it’s not your style.

I pair this with a good SEO plugin (like RankMath or Yoast) and just write.

Final Thoughts

Every time I spin up a new WordPress install, these are the plugins I reach for first. They cover:

  • Speed (WP Rocket)

  • Monetization (AAWP)

  • Security (Sucuri)

  • Analytics (MonsterInsights)

  • Customization (Code Snippets)

  • Design (Elementor)

  • Writing experience (Classic Editor)

What’s in your plugin stack? Are you overloading your site — or building lean and intentional from day one?