MediaWiki is a wonderful platform for managing and creating websites however sometimes a little spark is required to shine. This is the place where modules are available; mini-extensions that offer distinctive features to your wiki. And they’re easy to install!
This is a step-by-step guide on how to install modules in Mediawiki.
Requirements for Modules
Know Your MediaWiki Version
Before starting the installation procedure it is essential to determine what version of MediaWiki you’re operating. Since updates are often distinct between versions, the installation methods may differ between versions. The footer generally contains this information.
Before we get into how to install modules in Mediawiki, let’s make sure that we’ve got everything required.
Extension: Scribunto
This extension lets you operate Lua which is the programming language that includes the base of the majority of MediaWiki modules. If it isn’t yet added to your Wiki, make sure to inspect the LocalSettings.php file to see if $wgScribuntoEngine is if it doesn’t exist.
Access to Module Code
Once you have all the required elements to install and have access to the code (Lua codes) for the module is not a crisis Many scripts are available online at MediaWiki.org and GitHub, or in reliable repository sites.
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How to Install Modules in MediaWiki
Once your conditions have been met Choose one of the following techniques:
Direct Page Creation
- Go to the module’s web page: On your Wiki visit the page titled ModuleName: Module (supersede ModuleName with the name of the module).
- Paste the module code: Copy and paste the code from your source into the page editor, making sure it does Lua syntax highlighting for optimal recognition.
- Save the page: Hit the “Save” button, and your module is done and ready for use!
Importing Templates
- Locate a template using the module: Many templates rely on certain modules; find one that uses your preferred one and review its documentation for instructions concerning it.
- Export the template: Simply navigate to the Template Page, use “Special: Export,” and review “Include templates” as one of your export opportunities.
- Import the template on your wiki: Upload the exported file using “Special: Import” on your wiki; this should automatically pull in any required modules as well.
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Utilizing Your New Powers: Invoking the Module
Now that your module has been successfully installed, take full benefit of it! Use #invoke in your wiki pages to call upon its functionality utilizing the basic syntax:
{{#invoke:ModuleName | FunctionName | Parameter1 | Parameter2 | …}}
- Replace ModuleName with the existing module name you installed.
- Replace FunctionName with the exact function you desire to call within the module.
- Add any needed parameters (check the module documentation for details).
For instance, if you installed a module called MyUtils with a function formatNumber, you could utilize it like this:
{{#invoke:MyUtils | formatNumber | 123456 | 2}}
Your magical module would then allow you to format 123456 with two decimal places!
Remember: Keep it Tidy
- Module Dependencies: Certain modules rely upon others; before installing new ones, always confer their documentation and install any dependencies first to avoid mistakes.
- Caching: MediaWiki caches module output for performance causes. To see changes after updating a module on your page after purging its cache may be required.
- Documentation Is Your Ally: Most modules feature complete documentation with usage examples to help users and avoid confusion. Referring back to it can provide more specifics and sidestep potential misunderstandings.
Conclusion
How to install modules in Mediawiki is an effortless procedure that will extend its abilities, offering more functionality to meet the unique needs of your community or project.
By following the steps outlined here you can improve your MediaWiki experience while tailoring it especially to the unique needs of each community or project. Keep in mind that regular upgrades of both MediaWiki itself as well as installed modules are important in maintaining compatibility and providing security for everyone using it.