The FAIR Package Manager is a new tool for WordPress, created to make managing plugins and themes easier, safer, and more open. It’s a project backed by the Linux Foundation, a group that supports open-source software (free software anyone can use and improve). Unlike the usual way WordPress sites get plugins and themes from one central place (WordPress.org), FAIR lets people get them from multiple trusted sources. Think of it like choosing to shop at different stores instead of just one big mall.
It works as a plugin you can add to your WordPress site, replacing the default system for updates and downloads with a decentralized one. This means no single company or person controls it, and it’s designed to be transparent and community-driven. Developers and hosting companies can set up their own “stores” (repositories) for plugins and themes, giving them more control and flexibility.
What Problem Does It Solve?
Right now, WordPress relies heavily on WordPress.org for plugins, themes, and updates. This setup has a few issues:
- Single Point of Control: If something goes wrong with WordPress.org (like a server crash or a dispute), it can mess up updates for millions of websites. It’s like if the only grocery store in town closed—everyone’s in trouble.
- Security Risks: Plugins from a single source can be a weak spot. If a bad plugin slips through or the system gets hacked, it could affect many sites.
- Lack of Flexibility: Developers and hosting companies can’t easily customize or control which plugins and themes their users get. They’re stuck with what WordPress.org offers.
- Community Tensions: In 2024, a big fight between WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg, his company Automattic, and another company, WP Engine, caused drama. Mullenweg blocked some companies from accessing WordPress.org updates, worrying the community about one person having too much power over a system used by 43% of the web.
FAIR fixes this by creating a system where no one person or company is in charge. It spreads out the control, so hosting companies, developers, and users aren’t stuck relying on one source. It also adds better security checks and supports privacy rules (like Europe’s GDPR) by reducing unnecessary data sharing.
Who Has This Problem?
- Website Owners: If you run a WordPress site, you depend on WordPress.org for updates. If that system fails or a plugin has a security issue, your site could break or get hacked.
- Developers: People who build plugins or themes want more freedom to share their work without relying on one platform. They also want a safer, more stable way to distribute their creations.
- Hosting Companies: Companies that host WordPress sites (like WP Engine or Pantheon) need reliable, secure ways to manage updates for their customers. They don’t want to be at the mercy of one central system.
- Businesses and Agencies: Companies using WordPress for their websites or clients’ sites want more control over updates to avoid surprises (like a buggy plugin breaking their site).
- The WordPress Community: Many in the community were upset by the 2024 disputes and want a system that’s fair, transparent, and not controlled by one person or company.
Why It Matters
FAIR makes WordPress more reliable and secure by letting multiple trusted sources provide plugins and themes. It’s like having backup stores for your groceries, so you’re never stuck if one closes. It also gives the community more say in how things are run, which builds trust. The project is open for anyone to contribute to (via github.com/fairpm), and it’s designed to keep WordPress strong for years to come.
In short, FAIR is about giving everyone more freedom, safety, and control over how they use WordPress, solving problems caused by depending on one central system.
Links:
https://www.linuxfoundation.org/press/linux-foundation-announces-the-fair-package-manager-project-for-open-source-content-management-system-stability
https://github.com/fairpm