In WordPress, plugins are loaded after the core WordPress files are loaded, but before the theme functions.php file is loaded. This means that plugins have access to all the functions and features provided by WordPress, but they are loaded before the theme-specific functionality is loaded.
The order of loading in WordPress is as follows:
- WordPress core files are loaded.
- Plugins are loaded.
- WordPress theme files are loaded.
This loading order is important because it determines the order in which functions and code are executed. For example, if a plugin modifies a core WordPress function, that modification will be applied to all subsequent code that uses that function, including code in the theme.
It’s also worth noting that the loading order of plugins can be affected by various factors, such as the priority of the plugin’s actions and filters, and whether the plugin is activated or deactivated. Additionally, some plugins may use custom loading mechanisms that bypass the normal WordPress loading order.
Overall, understanding the loading order of WordPress files and plugins is important for developing and debugging WordPress plugins and themes, and for ensuring that your code executes in the correct order and with the correct dependencies.