How Disqus connects to WordPress

Disqus Comment System Business brings Disqus discussions to WordPress through the Disqus for WordPress add-on, replacing the default WordPress comment display. Setup can import existing WordPress comments, and the add-on installs without requiring code edits.

Importing comments into Disqus and syncing comments back to WordPress are separate operations. Comment Syncing is off by default. When enabled, it copies Disqus comments to WordPress as a backup. Automatic Installation creates the API application needed for syncing; syncing can also be set up with an API application. Comments can be exported in WordPress-compatible XML for backup or migration.

Discussion capabilities for readers

Discussions support voting, mentions, spoiler tags, photo and video uploads, and rich media embeds. Comment formatting uses HTML tags for bold text, links, italics, and quotations; suitable discussions can also display code with syntax highlighting. Threads can be nested up to three levels, collapsed, and sorted by oldest, newest, or best comments.

Readers can sign in with Facebook, Twitter, or Google, or comment as guests. Web and email notifications and personalized digests can bring readers back to active conversations. Profiles display comment history and frequented communities. A recommendations widget points readers to other active discussions on the site, and Disqus Polls can be created and embedded to collect audience responses.

Moderation and publisher utilities

An anti-spam filter powered by Akismet works with automated pre-moderation controls that can flag comments based on links or user reputation. Moderators can review discussions directly, by email, or in the moderation panel, where they can search, filter, sort, and manage comments. Available controls also include blocking users and flagging comments.

The analytics dashboard measures overall site engagement, and monetization settings are available to publishers. Disqus loads asynchronously with advanced caching, and its interface is designed for mobile devices.

Business plan and Single Sign-On

Disqus has a free, ad-supported Basic plan and ad-optional subscription plans for larger commercial sites. Subscriptions include more advanced functions and access to priority support. Single Sign-On (SSO) is a separate add-on for Business subscribers. It lets users in your own database comment without registering with Disqus, and can be configured for a WordPress site.

Installation and setup

1. Install and activate the Disqus for WordPress plugin.
2. In the plugin settings, select Automatic Installation or enter your site's Disqus shortname using the manual setup. Automatic Installation requires a Disqus account and site registration, and creates the API application needed for comment syncing.
3. Import existing WordPress comments into Disqus during installation. Comment syncing back to WordPress requires setup and is not enabled by default.
4. Configure discussion, login, notification, and moderation preferences, then use the dashboard to review engagement and manage the community.