WordPress.org escalated its conflict with WPEngine by blocking its servers from accessing vital resources, including plugin updates. Following a dispute over WPEngine’s refusal to pay trademark fees, this move could put user sites at risk by preventing essential updates. WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg argues that WPEngine profits without contributing to WordPress’ development, prompting the block. Users and the WordPress community are divided, with discussions of potential forks emerging. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Full Summary: In this episode of the podcast hosted by Todd Cochrane, a significant focus is placed on a major conflict within the tech industry involving WordPress.org and WPEngine. The central issue is that WordPress.org has blocked WPEngine’s servers from accessing vital resources like plugins and theme updates. This dramatic action stemmed from WPEngine’s refusal to pay trademark fees, leading to a discussion about the implications for users and the potential for future forks of WordPress. Todd starts the episode by acknowledging his sponsor, GoDaddy, highlighting exclusive deals for the listeners. He encourages the audience to support the podcast mission by becoming insiders and mentions the ability to interact live with the show through modern podcast apps. The episode dives into the WordPress.org vs. WPEngine conflict, highlighting the arguments from WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg. According to Mullenweg, WPEngine profits significantly from WordPress without adequately contributing to its development. This dispute has led WordPress.org to restrict WPEngine’s access to essential updates, which has divided users and sparked discussions about the sustainability and ethics of such business models in the open-source community. Todd also discusses his updates, mentioning his travel plans and some logistics involving his equipment setup for podcasting. He introduces a new piece of equipment he’s excited about, the Rodecaster Video, which he believes will enhance the video quality of his shows. Throughout the podcast, Todd emphasizes the impact of this conflict on the WordPress community and the broader implications for open-source projects. He discusses potential legal actions and the necessity for businesses like WPEngine to develop independent systems if they are cut off from WordPress.org resources. Todd concludes the episode with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast through various platforms like email, social media, and the official website, reminding them of the ongoing support from GoDaddy and the deals available through the podcast’s affiliation. * –Are you trying to get WI-Fi on a plane? * –A fingerprint pad...