How to Know the CMS Behind a Website
In today’s digital landscape, Content Management Systems (CMS) play a crucial role in the creation and management of websites. With numerous CMS platforms available, identifying the specific CMS behind a website can be a challenging task. However, knowing the CMS can provide valuable insights into the website’s design, functionality, and potential vulnerabilities. This article will guide you through various methods to determine the CMS behind a website.
1. Examine the Website’s Source Code
One of the most straightforward methods to identify the CMS behind a website is by examining its source code. Look for specific patterns, tags, or comments that might indicate the use of a particular CMS. For instance, WordPress websites often contain ‘wp-content’ and ‘wp-admin’ directories, while Joomla sites might have ‘components/com_content’ and ‘modules/mod_mainmenu’ in their source code.
2. Check the Website’s Footer
Another simple way to determine the CMS is by examining the website’s footer. Many CMS platforms include a link or reference to the CMS in the footer. For example, WordPress websites often display “Proudly powered by WordPress,” while Joomla sites might show “Joomla! – Open Source Content Management System.”
3. Look for CMS-specific Plugins or Extensions
If the website is using plugins or extensions, they can provide clues about the CMS. WordPress, for instance, has a vast library of plugins, and many of them include their logo or name in the plugin’s description. Similarly, Joomla and Drupal have their own sets of extensions and modules that can help identify the CMS.
4. Use Online Tools and Websites
There are several online tools and websites that can help you identify the CMS behind a website. Some popular tools include:
– WhatCMS.net: This website allows you to enter a URL and provides a list of possible CMS platforms based on the website’s characteristics.
– BuiltWith: This tool provides a detailed analysis of a website’s technology stack, including the CMS.
– Wappalyzer: This browser extension helps you identify the technology stack of a website, including the CMS.
5. Contact the Website’s Administrator
If all else fails, contacting the website’s administrator or developer is a viable option. They can provide you with the necessary information about the CMS being used. However, keep in mind that some administrators may not be willing to disclose this information.
Conclusion
Identifying the CMS behind a website can be a challenging task, but it is essential for understanding the website’s design, functionality, and potential vulnerabilities. By examining the source code, footer, plugins, using online tools, and contacting the administrator, you can determine the CMS behind a website with relative ease.
