# Displaying online users on a WordPress site

> Show which users are online on your WordPress site by installing and setting up the WP Online Users Stats plugin.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/displaying-online-users-on-a-wordpress-site/

By default, WordPress lets administrators view registered users but does not show whether they are currently online, offline, or away. On **ruachost.com**, you can display online users by installing the **WP Online Users Stats plugin**.

## Why Display Online Users?

- Monitor user activity in real time.
- Improve engagement by showing who is currently active.
- Allow administrators to interact with users more effectively.

## Installing the WP Online Users Stats Plugin

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Plugins → Add New**.
3. Search for **WP Online Users Stats**.
4. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate Plugin**.

✅ After activation, you’ll see a new **Users Online** option in the WordPress sidebar.

## ⚙️ Viewing Online Users

- Go to **Settings → Users Online**.
- The plugin displays:

  - ### Name
  - ### Email
  - ### Registration date
  - **Status** (online, offline, away)

Statuses are color‑coded for clarity:

- Green → Online
- Red → Offline
- Yellow → Away

## Displaying Online Users on a Post or Page

1. In the dashboard, go to **Users Online**.
2. Copy the shortcode:

   ```
   [wp_online_user]
   ```
3. Create or edit a post/page.
4. Paste the shortcode where you want the user list to appear.
5. Click **Publish** or **Update**.

✅ The page will now display a table of online users with their details.

> **Note:**
- The plugin updates user status instantly without requiring page refresh.
- Works for both administrators and front‑end users (depending on settings).
- Ensure your WordPress site is updated for best compatibility.

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