# Getting Started

> Everything you need to install, configure, and start sending documents for signature with WPsigner.

edition: both
Edition: Lite + Pro
AI note: This page applies to Lite and Pro. Call out Lite limits (PDF only, max 2 signers, email OTP, local timestamp) when they apply. Do not invent Pro-only features.
HTML: https://docs.wpsigner.com/getting-started/
Markdown: https://docs.wpsigner.com/md/getting-started.md
Source file: getting-started/index.md

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Welcome to WPsigner — the self-hosted electronic signature plugin for WordPress. This section walks you through setup, from server checks to your first signed PDF.

WPsigner ships as **Lite** (free) and **Pro**. See **[Lite vs Pro](/getting-started/lite-vs-pro/)** before you install if you are unsure which edition you need.

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## What You'll Learn

| Guide | Description | Time |
|-------|-------------|------|
| [Introduction](/getting-started/introduction/) | What WPsigner is, Lite vs Pro, and how it compares to SaaS | 5 min |
| [Lite vs Pro](/getting-started/lite-vs-pro/) | Feature matrix, limits, and upgrade without losing documents | 5 min |
| [System Requirements](/getting-started/requirements/) | PHP version, extensions, and server settings | 3 min |
| [Hosting Compatibility](/getting-started/hosting-compatibility/) | Recommended hosts, shared hosting, and go-live checklist | 3 min |
| [Installation](/getting-started/installation/) | Install Lite (wordpress.org) or Pro (Account Portal) | 5 min |
| [First Document (Lite)](/getting-started/first-document-lite/) | PDF → up to two signers → send (WordPress.org path) | 5 min |
| [Quick Start](/getting-started/quick-start/) | Create and send your first document for signature | 5 min |
| [System Status, Storage & Retention](/getting-started/system-status-and-storage/) | Diagnose cron, email, PDF, database, and storage health; configure retention safely | 8 min |
| [Glossary](/glossary/) | Envelope, TSA, OTP, campaign, audit trail, and other terms | 5 min |

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## Recommended Path

If you're new to WPsigner, follow these guides in order:

1. **[System Requirements](/getting-started/requirements/)** — Verify your server meets the minimum specs before installing.
2. **[Hosting Compatibility](/getting-started/hosting-compatibility/)** — Confirm your host is a good fit (including small / shared sites).
3. **[Installation](/getting-started/installation/)** — Install the plugin and complete the activation wizard.
4. **Lite users:** **[First Document on Lite](/getting-started/first-document-lite/)** — PDF, two signers max, send.
5. **Pro / full path:** **[Quick Start](/getting-started/quick-start/)** — Upload a document, add signers, place fields, and send.
6. **[System Status](/getting-started/system-status-and-storage/)** — Confirm cron, email, PDF generation, storage, and backups before production use.

Once your first document is signed, explore the rest of the documentation:

- **[Core Features](/core-features/)** — Documents, campaigns, workflows, and form fields
- **[Digital Identity](/digital-identity/)** — Certificates, timestamps, and audit trails
- **[Integrations](/integrations/)** — Connect with forms, CRMs, messaging, and cloud storage
- **[REST API](/api/)** — Build custom workflows with the developer API

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## Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

- A WordPress site running **5.8 or higher** (6.0+ recommended)
- PHP **7.4+** with the `openssl`, `gd` (or `imagick`), `mbstring`, and `curl` extensions
- Your WPsigner license key (from your purchase confirmation email)
- A PDF document ready to test with

> **tip**
Not sure if your server is ready? Check [System Requirements](/getting-started/requirements/) and [Hosting Compatibility](/getting-started/hosting-compatibility/). WPsigner also runs environment checks automatically on activation.

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## Need Help?

If you run into issues during setup:

- Check the [Troubleshooting](/support/troubleshooting/) guide for common installation problems
- Browse the [FAQ](/support/faq/) for quick answers
- Contact support at [wpsigner.com/contact](https://wpsigner.com/contact/)
