Publii Documentation
Introduction
Publii is an app that brings a new concept to the web-development table; the first desktop static-website CMS. Designed with the simplicity for beginners to use, but boasting extensive options and functionalities that allow experienced web developers to make more complex modifications, Publii creates a safe, fast static website without all the hassle. In this guide you'll be able to learn how it works, from installation to creation.
How It Works
Before starting using Publii it is important to understand that while it is technically a CMS (Content Management System), it does not work in the same way as other CMS' you may have seen such as WordPress or Joomla!. Usually, the defining characteristic of a CMS is that it is software that runs on a server; first, you must buy hosting that gives you access to a server, then upload the CMS files to the server and install it directly there.
What this means is that everything related to your website is run on the server; if you want to create a new post, edit a category, or add images to your site, you must first login to the CMS on the server and make your changes there. You must be constantly connected to the internet for this so that any changes can be sent to the software as you make them. Though it's possible to create the website offline and then transfer it to your server, it's not an easy process and prone to issues.
These issues are rendered irrelevant when using Publii; building, styling and creating content for your site all happens offline on your desktop, whether you're using Windows, Mac or Linux. The complete site files are rendered and uploaded to your server automatically at the click of a button; this means less code for browsers to run and fewer dynamic elements, making it nigh-impossible for hackers to gain access to your site files, and super-fast load times that put regular, non-static sites to shame.
Using This Guide
This guide is separated into sections, with each one covering a particular aspect of Publii, such as choosing a post editor, creating a new post or category, adding menus to your site or looking at the available options and what they do in a particular section. You may read through the guide in order if you wish, but each section is clearly separated and accessible via the quick links in the left-sidebar, so if you need help with a particular function you'll be able to find the link to it there. Should you encounter an issue that is not covered in this documentation then you can contact our community for assistance via our Community Forum.