WordPress.org has temporarily lifted its ban on hosting provider WP Engine until October 1. Earlier this week, the platform had blocked WP Engine, which prevented several websites from updating their plugins and themes, leaving them vulnerable to security risks.
Matt Mullenweg, co-founder of WordPress, has been involved in a conflict with WP Engine for over a week. He attributed the issue to WP Engine's private equity backer, Silver Lake.
In a statement on the WordPress.org blog, Mullenweg expressed that WP Engine customers were frustrated with their inability to update plugins, themes, and use Openverse on their sites. He voiced his regret that Silver Lake’s business decisions have had a negative impact on customers.
Mullenweg also noted that WP Engine was fully aware that their access to WordPress.org resources could be revoked if they ignored attempts to resolve the dispute and refused to enter a commercial licensing agreement. He stated that WP Engine's leadership knowingly placed this risk on their customers.
The sudden ban on WP Engine sparked criticism within the WordPress community, as it disrupted many websites.
Throughout the conflict, Mullenweg has accused WP Engine of contributing little to the WordPress ecosystem, even labeling them "a cancer to WordPress." WP Engine responded by sending a cease-and-desist letter to Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, demanding that Mullenweg retract his statements. In return, Automattic sent a cease-and-desist letter to WP Engine, accusing them of trademark infringement.
This dispute highlights the broader issue within the WordPress ecosystem, which powers approximately 40% of the internet. Users can host their own WordPress installations or opt for services like Automattic or WP Engine for easier solutions.
Mullenweg clarified that his main issue is with WP Engine and its handling of trademarks. However, this situation has raised concerns within the WordPress community, with many providers wondering if they, too, could face similar actions.
In July, the WordPress Foundation, which holds the WordPress trademark, applied for two new trademarks: "Managed WordPress" and "Hosted WordPress." Developers and providers worry these trademarks could be used against them if granted.