WordPress v WP Engine: Why the feud matters to the internet

Published On Oct 25, 2024, 5:55 PM

The article discusses a significant dispute between WordPress and WP Engine, two major companies in the web publishing industry. WordPress, which powers a substantial portion of the internet, is upset with WP Engine over perceived failures to contribute to the open-source community. This disagreement has led to serious disruptions for businesses relying on their services, as exemplified by Tricia Fox, whose agency is struggling with increased uncertainty and costs. The conflict has escalated to legal action, with WP Engine accusing Automattic (WordPress's profit arm) of attempted extortion regarding trademark usage. This dispute raises broader questions about the stability of open-source contributions and its impact on internet infrastructure.