WebFinger
WebFinger for WordPress
The facts
- Rating
- 3.7★ from 3
- Active installs
- 1k+
- Price
- Free
- Last updated
- 26 Aug 2026
- Added
- Apr 2010
- Requires WP
- 6.4
- Tested up to
- WP 7.1
- Requires PHP
- 7.4
- Downloads
- 24,277
Our analysis
AI-assistedWebFinger is a WordPress plugin that enables online identity discovery using identifiers like you@yourdomain.com. It is particularly useful for users on the Fediverse and Mastodon, allowing these platforms to find and follow your WordPress site.
The plugin works by responding to requests made to your domain, providing information about you and linking to your profiles. It serves as a foundational tool for other plugins that interact with decentralized identity systems.
Best for: This plugin suits individuals or sites looking to establish a presence on the Fediverse and Mastodon.
What it does well
- ✓Enables discovery of online identity on the web
- ✓Essential for federation with Mastodon and similar platforms
- ✓Provides a canonical source for your online identity
- ✓Works with other plugins like ActivityPub
Where it falls short
- •Limited information available about additional features
- •Only tested up to WordPress version 7.1
Verdict
WebFinger is a practical tool for those wanting to enhance their online identity visibility within federated networks. However, its functionality is primarily focused on specific use cases.
From the developer
Matthias Pfefferle's own description of WebFinger, lightly tidied.
WebFinger allows you to be discovered on the web using an identifier like you@yourdomain.com — similar to how email works, but for your online identity.
Why is this useful?
- Fediverse & Mastodon: WebFinger is essential for federation. It allows Mastodon and other ActivityPub-powered platforms to find and follow your WordPress site.
- Decentralized Identity: People can look you up using your WordPress domain, making your site the canonical source for your online identity.
- Works with other plugins: This plugin provides the foundation that other plugins (like the ActivityPub plugin) build upon.
How it works:
When someone searches for @you@yourdomain.com on Mastodon or another federated service, their server asks your WordPress site: “Who is this person?” WebFinger answers that question by providing information about you and links to your profiles.
Technical details:
WebFinger is an open standard (RFC 7033) that enables discovery of information about people and resources on the internet. It works by responding to requests at /.well-known/webfinger on your domain.