Expanding Joomla with templates and extensions gives your website extra functionality and a unique appearance. Whether you want a new design or need specific features, this guide will teach you how to safely install and manage templates and extensions.

Installing Templates in Joomla

A template determines the appearance of your website. Joomla offers thousands of free and premium templates.

Finding and Downloading a Template

Before you install a template, you first need to find a suitable one:

  1. Visit reliable sources such as:
    • Joomla Extensions Directory
    • Template clubs like JoomlArt, RocketTheme, or YOOtheme
    • Free templates from templatetoaster or other providers
  2. Download the template as a ZIP file
  3. Check compatibility with your Joomla version
  4. Read reviews and check the update frequency

Installing the Template via Administrator

The easiest method to install a template:

  1. Log in to your Joomla administrator (`/administrator`)
  2. Go to System in the main menu
  3. Click on Install under the Install section
  4. Drag the ZIP file to the upload area, or click to browse
  5. Wait until the installation is complete
  6. You will see a confirmation message upon success

Activating the Template

After installation, you need to activate the template:

  1. Go to System and then Site Templates
  2. Find your new template in the list
  3. Click on the star next to the template to set it as default
  4. The yellow star indicates that the template is now active
  5. Visit your website to see the result

Configuring the Template

Most templates have extensive settings:

  1. Click on the name of the template
  2. You will enter the template configuration screen
  3. Adjust options such as:
    • Logo: Upload your own logo
    • Colors: Choose a color scheme
    • Fonts: Select Google Fonts or system fonts
    • Layout: Determine the width and columns
    • Module positions: View available positions
  4. Save your changes

Installing Extensions in Joomla

Extensions add functionality to Joomla. There are different types of extensions.

Understanding Types of Extensions

Joomla has five types of extensions:

  • Components: Large applications like online stores or forums
  • Modules: Smaller blocks for sidebars or headers
  • Plugins: Background functionality like SEO or security
  • Templates: Visual themes (see above)
  • Languages: Translations for your website

Finding Extensions on extensions.joomla.org

The official Joomla Extensions Directory is the safest source:

  1. Go to extensions.joomla.org
  2. Search by functionality or browse through categories
  3. Filter by:
    • Joomla version compatibility
    • Rating and reviews
    • Free or paid
  4. Read the description and documentation
  5. Download the extension

Installing the Extension

The installation process is similar to templates:

  1. Go to System and then Install
  2. Upload the ZIP file of the extension
  3. Wait for the completion message
  4. The extension is now installed but may not be active yet

Activating and Configuring the Extension

After installation, you need to enable the extension:

For components:

  1. The component will automatically appear in the main menu
  2. Click on it to configure the settings

For modules:

  1. Go to Content and then Site Modules
  2. Find your new module in the list
  3. Click on it and set:
    • Position: Where the module appears
    • Status: Published
    • Menu assignment: On which pages
  4. Save and publish

For plugins:

  1. Go to System and then Plugins
  2. Find your new plugin
  3. Click on the red cross to activate (will turn green checkmark)
  4. Click on the name for additional settings

Managing and Updating Extensions

Proper management of extensions is essential for security.

Checking for Updates

  1. Go to System and then Update submenu
  2. Click on Extensions
  3. You will see a list of available updates
  4. Select the extensions you want to update
  5. Click on Update in the toolbar

Removing Extensions

Removing unused extensions improves security:

  1. Go to System and then Manage
  2. Click on Extensions
  3. Find the extension to be removed
  4. Select the checkbox
  5. Click on Remove in the toolbar
  6. Confirm the removal

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Template Not Working Correctly

  • Check if all files have been uploaded correctly
  • Clear the cache via System and Clear Cache
  • Check PHP version compatibility

Extension Causes Error

  • Disable the extension via Plugins or Modules
  • Check error messages in the Joomla logs
  • Contact the extension developer

Installation Failed

  • Check the file size limit in PHP
  • Try manual installation via FTP
  • Check the folder permissions of the tmp folder

Need Help?

We are here for you! Are you facing any issues or do you have questions? Our support team is happy to assist you personally. Send us a message via the ticket system - we usually respond within a few hours and are happy to help.