WordPress vs. WP Engine: What Happened? Why Should It Matter?

Recently, experts tracked a new controversy between WordPress and WP Engine over a commercial licensing fee. Before we proceed, let me inform you, that WP Engine is a platform that hosts websites built on WordPress.

So basically, Matt Mullenweg (CEO of Automattic) who developed WordPress banned WP Engine from accessing any of its plugins and theme directories.

Due to this ban, thousands of websites faced issues when adding plugins and themes. However, a temporary break from the block has been provided to users till October 1st.

What Led to the Ban?

Mullenweg reported a case of trademark infringement against WP Engine. The developer demanded millions in compensation. In fact, in the recent WordCamp conference, Mullenweg gave a last warning but no decision was made. Both parties failed to reach an agreement resulting in blocking the access to essential resources by Mullenweg.

Impact on WP Engine Customers

A large audience relies on WP Engine. Due to this ban, WP Engine’s customers faced a lot of struggles and issues in the past week. With no access to plugins and theme directories, site owners could not update or manage different website sections.

However, WP Engine responded by providing manual instructions for plugin and theme management. Also, assured its users that the ban will not impact their security and overall site performance.

But, this was not the end.

Many developers and users within the WordPress community backlashed the ban and expressed disappointment.

Temporary Reprieve for WP Engine

Getting a lot of messages, hatred, and disappointment from users, yesterday, WordPress announced a temporary reprieve.

But, gave a deadline of October 1.

To all the users, this is a temporary reprieve. The conflict remains unresolved.

As per reports, WP Engine has started working on long-term solutions. The team is planning to set its own repository mirrors and prevent its users from facing the issue again.

If any of you rely on WP Engine, be prepared for the potential changes.

Stay tuned for more updates.