how to change WordPress login logo

Customizing the login page of a WordPress site by changing the default logo to a personal or business brand image can significantly enhance the professional appearance and branding. This task can be performed through several methods, including using a plugin or by adding custom code to your WordPress files.

Using a Plugin to Change the WordPress Login Logo

One of the easiest methods to change the login logo is by using a WordPress plugin. This is ideal for beginners or those who prefer not to edit theme files directly.

Step 1: Install a Custom Login Page Plugin

Plugins like “Custom Login Page Customizer” or “LoginPress” are popular choices. To install, go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins > Add New, search for the plugin by name, and click ‘Install Now’. After installing, activate the plugin.

Step 2: Access Plugin Settings

Once activated, these plugins typically add a new menu in the dashboard under Appearance or directly listed in the menu where you can access their settings. Open the plugin settings.

Step 3: Upload Your Custom Logo

In the plugin settings, there should be an option to upload a new logo. Click on this option, select the logo image file from your computer, and upload it. Make sure the image fits the recommended dimensions (typically around 80 x 80 pixels for sharp display).

Step 4: Save Changes

After uploading the image, save the changes. Your new logo should now be present on the login page.

Manually Changing the WordPress Login Logo Using Code

For those who are comfortable with editing theme files, the login logo can also be changed by adding custom code to your theme’s functions.php file or via a site-specific plugin.

Step 1: Prepare Your Image

First, prepare your logo image. Ensure it is square for best results, and consider the file size and format (PNG or JPEG). Upload the image to your WordPress media library and copy the URL.

Step 2: Add Code to functions.php

Access your WordPress theme’s functions.php file via FTP or through the Theme Editor under Appearance in the WordPress dashboard. Add the following code at the end of the file:

function custom_login_logo() {
    echo '
        #login h1 a, .login h1 a {
            background-image: url(' . YOUR_LOGO_URL . ');
            height:65px;  // Adjust based on your logo's dimensions
            width:320px;  // Adjust based on your logo's dimensions
            background-size: 320px 65px;  // Width and height
            background-repeat: no-repeat;
        }
    ';
}
add_action('login_enqueue_scripts', 'custom_login_logo');

Replace YOUR_LOGO_URL with the URL of your uploaded logo image.

Step 3: Save Changes and Upload

After adding the code, save your changes and upload the updated functions.php file back to your server if you edited it locally. Clear your browser cache and visit the login page to see your new custom logo.

Tips for Customizing Your Login Page Further

Beyond changing the logo, consider these additional customizations:

• Login Page Background: Change the background color or image to match your brand.
• Custom CSS: If you’re comfortable with CSS, you can add custom styles to alter the layout, fonts, and colors on the login page.
• Redirect Users: After login, redirect users to a specific page rather than the dashboard by adding custom redirects.

Testing Your Changes

After each change, it’s essential to test your login page in different browsers and devices to ensure it displays correctly. Compatibility across browsers ensures all users experience your brand as intended.

Changing the WordPress login logo helps reinforce your brand identity and provides a more personalized experience for users. Whether through a plugin or by adding code, this customization improves your site’s professional feel and can contribute to a cohesive brand strategy.