Perhaps I'm not using the right search terms but I can't find how to develop a WordPress plugin that I want to make available on a subscription or purchase plan. When I try to Google this topic, woocommerce fills up all of the search results. I'm looking for how other developers disable their plugins for non-payment for example so I assume their is a database hook I can make to call home or something?
I've googled, "how to code a WordPress plugin that I want to sell" and all I get back are marketing tips. While those links are good, it's not what I am after at this time.
Perhaps I'm not using the right search terms but I can't find how to develop a WordPress plugin that I want to make available on a subscription or purchase plan. When I try to Google this topic, woocommerce fills up all of the search results. I'm looking for how other developers disable their plugins for non-payment for example so I assume their is a database hook I can make to call home or something?
I've googled, "how to code a WordPress plugin that I want to sell" and all I get back are marketing tips. While those links are good, it's not what I am after at this time.
Share Improve this question edited Apr 30, 2020 at 0:18 HPWD asked Apr 29, 2020 at 22:40 HPWDHPWD 1036 bronze badges 4- 1 "how other developers disable their plugins for non-payment for example " They don't. And since WordPress plugins are GPL by necessity, you're not allowed to. What plugin developers do is only offer updates and support for paying customers. – Jacob Peattie Commented Apr 30, 2020 at 0:22
- So what stops one developer from taking someone else's plugin, modifying (fixing bugs, making enhancements, etc)? Or is this just an honor system? – HPWD Commented May 1, 2020 at 1:28
- Nothing. It's the whole point of the license. WordPress itself started as a fork of another platform, and WooCommerce is also a fork of a different plugin. – Jacob Peattie Commented May 1, 2020 at 1:45
- @JacobPeattie - I wasn't aware of all of this, thanks for the enlightenment. I guess I'll need to rethink if my piddly little plugin is actually worth the hassle then. – HPWD Commented May 1, 2020 at 19:11
1 Answer
Reset to default 1I can't comment yet so I'll comment here.
Start here:
https://rudrastyh/wordpress/self-hosted-plugin-update.html
That'll give you the basics. Hope you realize the can of worms you're getting into... payment gateway api's, registration codes, managing updates, etc. Self-hosting a plugin on your own is not for the feint of heart.
I know a number of years ago there was a company that took care of a lot of that for you, including registration & payments. Can't seem to find them now though.
edit found them. https://freemius/