How to Install and Setup Facebook Comments in WordPress: A Comprehensive Guide

By Naveed Ahmed, WordPress Expert with 15+ years of experience

As a seasoned WordPress expert, I’ve witnessed firsthand how social integration can dramatically boost engagement and community building on websites. Facebook, being the largest social network globally, offers a fantastic opportunity to leverage its power for your WordPress site. This article will guide you step-by-step through the process of installing and setting up Facebook comments on your WordPress website, unlocking new levels of interaction and visibility for your content.

Let’s dive into the world of Facebook comments and discover how to effortlessly incorporate them into your WordPress blog, maximizing the impact of your content and building a vibrant community.

Why Use Facebook Comments in WordPress?

Before we jump into the technical aspects, let’s understand the benefits of using Facebook comments on your WordPress website. Here are some key reasons why you should consider this integration:

• Increased Visibility on Facebook: Facebook comments can significantly boost your website’s visibility on Facebook. When users leave a comment on your site, they have the option to share it with their Facebook friends, potentially driving new traffic to your content. Imagine the reach you could achieve!
• Enhanced Interactivity: Facebook comments make your website’s discussions more interactive and engaging. Visitors can easily participate in conversations without the need for multiple accounts, fostering a sense of community.
• Reduced Spam: Facebook comments help combat spam. Since users are linked to their Facebook profiles, they are less likely to leave spam comments, ensuring cleaner and more meaningful discussions.
• Simplified Comment Moderation: Facebook offers powerful comment moderation tools, making it easier to manage and control comments. You can set rules, filter inappropriate content, and even add moderators to assist with the process.
• Boost Engagement: Engaging with your audience through comments is a great way to build relationships, foster loyalty, and create a sense of community around your content.

Pros and Cons of Using Facebook Comments

While Facebook comments offer numerous advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks you should consider:

Pros:

• Increased Reach and Visibility: Comments can be shared on Facebook, driving traffic to your website.
• Reduced Spam: Facebook accounts provide a level of accountability, deterring spammers.
• Enhanced Interactivity: Facebook comments encourage more active participation in discussions.
• Simplified Moderation: Facebook offers robust moderation tools for managing comments.
• Social Proof: Comments from Facebook users can build social proof for your content.

Cons:

• Anonymity: Some users prefer anonymity, and Facebook comments require a Facebook profile.
• Data Synchronization: Facebook comments aren’t stored or synchronized with WordPress, potentially creating inconsistencies in comment threads.
• Limited Customization: You have less control over the appearance and functionality of Facebook comments compared to native WordPress comments.
• SEO Impact: Facebook comments may not be as SEO-friendly as native WordPress comments, as search engines cannot index them as easily.
• Facebook Dependency: You rely on Facebook’s platform for comment functionality, making you vulnerable to changes in Facebook’s policies or features.

Methods for Installing Facebook Comments

Now that you understand the pros and cons, let’s explore two popular methods for installing Facebook comments on your WordPress site:

Method 1: Using a Plugin (Free and Easy)

The easiest way to install Facebook comments is by using a dedicated plugin. One of the most popular options is the “Lazy Social Comments” plugin. Here’s how to use it:

1. Install and Activate the Plugin: Navigate to Plugins » Add New in your WordPress dashboard. Search for “Lazy Social Comments” and install it. Activate the plugin once it’s installed.
2. Create a Facebook App: You’ll need a Facebook app to use the plugin. Visit the Meta for Developers page and create a developer account. Remember to log in to your Facebook account first.
3. Configure the Plugin: Go to Settings » Lazy FB Comments in your WordPress dashboard. Enter the Facebook App ID you obtained from the Meta for Developers page. Save your changes.
4. Moderate Comments: You can moderate Facebook comments through the plugin’s settings page in your WordPress dashboard. Click on the “Moderate Comments” tab to access the comment moderation tool.

That’s it! Now, you can use Facebook comments on your website.

Using WPCode to Display Facebook Comment Count

One of the downsides of the Lazy Social Comments plugin is that it overrides the WordPress comment count functionality, displaying a Facebook-branded count. To maintain a consistent comment count, you can use the WPCode plugin.

1. Install WPCode: Install and activate the WPCode plugin. You can use the free version for this.
2. Add a Snippet: Go to Code Snippets » + Add Snippet in your WordPress dashboard. Click the “Use Snippet” button under “Add Your Custom Code (New Snippet).”
3. Paste Code: Paste the following code into the “Code Preview” box:

<fb:comments-count href="ID); ?>"></fb:comments-count> Comments

4. Configure Insertion: Select “Auto Insert” as the insertion method and choose “Insert After Content” as the location.
5. Activate Snippet: Toggle the “Inactive” switch to “Active” and click the “Save Snippet” button.

Now, your Facebook comment count will be displayed on every post.

Method 2: Setting up Facebook Comments Using SeedProd (Easy and Powerful)

For a visually appealing and user-friendly approach, consider using SeedProd. This powerful page builder simplifies the process of setting up Facebook comments.

1. Install and Activate SeedProd: Install and activate the SeedProd plugin. You can use the free version, but the premium version offers more features.
2. Create a Landing Page: Go to SeedProd » Landing Pages and click “Add New Landing Page.” Choose a template or create your own.
3. Add the Facebook Comments Block: In the SeedProd drag-and-drop builder, search for the “Facebook Comments” block. Drag and drop it onto your page.
4. Configure Settings: Double-click the “Facebook Comments” block to open its settings. You can customize the appearance and functionality of the comments.
5. Enter Facebook App ID: Go to “Page Settings” in the left column and enter your Facebook App ID.
6. Save Changes: Save your changes, and your Facebook comments will be displayed on your landing page.

Bonus: Adding Facebook Like Reactions to WordPress Posts

To enhance user interaction, consider adding Facebook-like reaction options to your WordPress posts. These reactions, represented by emojis, allow visitors to quickly express their feelings about your content.

1. Install and Activate the ShareThis Reaction Buttons plugin: Install and activate the ShareThis Reaction Buttons plugin.
2. Enable the Tool and Customize Reactions: Go to the “ShareThis” page in your WordPress dashboard. Click “Enable Tool” and choose the emojis you want to use as reactions.
3. Adjust Settings: Choose the alignment and placement of the reaction buttons. Save your changes.

Moderating Facebook Comments

Once you have installed and set up Facebook comments, it’s crucial to moderate them effectively. Here’s how to do it:

• Facebook Notifications: As the Facebook app admin, you’ll receive notifications for new comments in your Facebook account.
• Comment Moderation Tool: Go to the plugin’s settings page in your WordPress dashboard and click the “Moderate Comments” tab.
• Moderation Rules: Set character limits, automatic comment closing periods, and add moderators.

Conclusion

Integrating Facebook comments into your WordPress website is a simple yet powerful way to boost engagement, build community, and increase your content’s visibility. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can easily set up Facebook comments and take your website’s interactivity to the next level. Remember to explore the plugin’s settings and Facebook’s moderation tools to fully customize your comment experience.

If you’re interested in learning more about tech news and WordPress, feel free to visit my website: www.naveedahmed.me.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Facebook Comments in WordPress

How do I remove the default WordPress comment system?

If you want to rely solely on Facebook comments, you can disable the default WordPress comment system. Go to Settings » Discussion in your WordPress dashboard and uncheck “Allow people to post comments on new articles.” To disable comments on existing posts, go to Posts » select all posts » Edit » and choose “Do not allow” next to comments.

Can I change the appearance of Facebook comments?

Unfortunately, you can’t directly customize the appearance of Facebook comments. However, you can adjust the settings in the plugin to modify some aspects, such as the number of comments displayed and the comment loading method.

How can I display Facebook comments on specific pages or posts?

You can use the plugin’s settings or shortcodes to display Facebook comments on specific pages or posts. The exact method depends on the plugin you are using. Consult the plugin’s documentation for instructions.

What are the best practices for using Facebook comments on WordPress?

Here are some best practices for Facebook comments:

• Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and ask questions to encourage further discussion.
• Moderate comments regularly: Keep a clean and respectful comment section.
• Use Facebook ads to promote comments: Encourage participation by highlighting your comment section in ads.
• Promote your Facebook comments on social media: Share your posts and encourage comments on other platforms.

Is it safe to use Facebook comments on my website?

Using Facebook comments is generally safe, but you need to be aware of potential security risks. Make sure to use a reputable plugin and follow Facebook’s guidelines for app security.

How can I prevent spam comments on Facebook?

Facebook offers powerful moderation tools to prevent spam. Use the “Moderation Rules” feature to set character limits, block certain words, and report spam accounts.

Can I use Facebook comments on my website if I don’t have a Facebook page?

You can still use Facebook comments on your website without a Facebook page. You’ll need to create a Facebook app.

Can I use Facebook comments on my website if I’m using a different commenting system?

Yes, you can use Facebook comments alongside other commenting systems like Disqus. However, you might want to consider disabling the native WordPress comment system to avoid inconsistencies.

What are the SEO implications of using Facebook comments?

While Facebook comments can increase visibility, they might not be as SEO-friendly as native WordPress comments. Search engines may have difficulty indexing them effectively.

How can I measure the success of my Facebook comments?

Use analytics tools like Google Analytics to track traffic and engagement metrics related to your Facebook comment section. You can also monitor the number of comments and shares on Facebook to assess the impact of your Facebook comments.

I hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights into installing and setting up Facebook comments on your WordPress website. Remember that the key to success lies in engaging with your audience, promoting your comment section, and creating a vibrant community around your content.