WP Engine offers robust support for WordPress Multisite, but there are notable limitations that users should consider:
Plan Restrictions
- Multisite Availability: Multisite functionality is not supported on the Lite or Startup plans. Users must be on the Growth plan or higher, where they can purchase the multisite product extension. Premium plans include this feature by default[1].Single Site Limitations
- Site Count: The Growth plan only allows for one site unless the multisite extension is added, making it less flexible for users who need multiple sites under one account compared to other hosting providers[1].Complex Setup and Management
- Conversion Process: To set up a multisite, users must convert their environment through the User Portal, which can be a more complex process than simply enabling it on other platforms. This includes considerations for domain routing and SSL configurations[1].Shared Resources
- Performance Issues: All subsites share the same server resources. If one site experiences high traffic, it can affect the performance of all other sites in the network, leading to slower load times[2].Plugin and Theme Management
- Limited Customization: All themes and plugins are installed at the network level, meaning that any changes to a theme or plugin affect all subsites. This can limit customization options for individual sites[2].User Management Complexity
- User Roles and Permissions: Managing users across multiple subsites can be complex, especially when trying to assign specific roles or permissions. While WP Engine provides tools for user management, the inherent complexity of multisite can make this challenging[3].Backup and Restore Challenges
- Backup Limitations: Backing up and restoring individual subsites can be more complicated within a multisite setup, as the process typically involves the entire network rather than a single site[2].In summary, while WP Engine provides a solid environment for WordPress Multisite, its limitations regarding plan restrictions, shared resources, and management complexity may pose challenges for users looking for a flexible and scalable multisite solution.
Citations:[1] https://wpengine.com/support/what-is-wordpress-multisite/
[2] https://wildcloud.com/multisite-versus-wildcloud/
[3] https://wpengine.co.uk/resources/wordpress-multisite-user-management/
[4] https://www.a2hosting.com/wordpress-hosting/multisite/
[5] https://www.wpexplorer.com/pros-cons-wordpress-multisite/