WordPress drama escalated today as WordPress.org, the free-open source web content hosting software, banned web hosting provider WP Engine from accessing their resources.
In a post on WordPress.org, WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg explained that due to pending legal claims, WP Engine has been restricted from accessing the platform’s resources, including themes and plug-ins.
“WP Engine wants to control your WordPress experience by managing their own user login system, server updates, plugin directory, theme directory, pattern directory, block directory, translations, photo directory, job board, meetups, conferences, bug tracker, forums, Slack, Ping-o-matic, and showcase. They can no longer access our servers for free,” Mullenweg stated.
Due to this restriction, websites using WP Engine’s services couldn’t install plugins or update their themes.
As noted by various WordPress developers and advocates, WordPress.org blocking WP Engine has left its customers without access to security updates, making them vulnerable.
In an update on service status, WP Engine acknowledged the issue and is working on a solution.
“WordPress.org has restricted WP Engine customers from updating and installing plugins and themes via WP Admin. This does not impact your site’s performance, reliability, or security. You can still make updates to your code or content,” WP Engine assured.
The WP Engine vs Automattic/WordPress Conflict
It’s crucial to note that WordPress powers almost 40% of websites online through various hosting providers, including Automattic and WP Engine. While users can self-host the open-source project, many opt for plug-and-play solutions.
The feud ignited when Mullenweg criticized WP Engine, calling it “cancer to WordPress” and alleging the company, with nearly half a billion in yearly revenue, doesn’t contribute to the WordPress community.
The legal battle intensified when WP Engine issued a cease-and-desist letter to Mullenweg and Automattic, responding to his comments. They accused Mullenweg of threatening a “scorched earth nuclear approach” unless paid.
In retaliation, Automattic sent its own cease-and-desist notice to WP Engine for trademark infringement of WordPress and WooCommerce trademarks.
Furthermore, the WordPress Foundation, established by Mullenweg to maintain WordPress as an open-source project, claimed WP Engine violated its trademarks.
Recently, the foundation updated its policy to address WP Engine’s use of WordPress to confuse its customers, highlighting the violations.
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