Bundled plugins are premium plugins included inside a theme purchase — many ThemeForest themes come packaged with CodeCanyon plugins like Visual Composer, Revolution Slider, or other page builder plugins to add extra functionality.
A plugin is an additional component that adds features beyond a standard WordPress installation. Theme authors choose to bundle certain plugins directly into their item to extend what the theme can do.
Do I need to activate a bundled plugin separately?
No — bundled plugins work automatically once your theme is activated. If a bundled plugin shows an activation or purchase code prompt, you can safely ignore it — bundled plugins don't require their own registration.
When the plugin developer releases an update, the theme author includes the latest version in their next theme update, so you'll get it automatically when you update your theme.
What's the difference between a bundled and a standalone plugin?
Standalone plugins (purchased separately):
- Come with their own individual license.
- Can be used independently, with any theme.
- Come with their own purchase code to activate and remove the activation message.
- Can be updated directly from CodeCanyon as soon as a new version is released.
- Include 6 months of item support from the plugin's author, extendable if needed.
Bundled plugins (included with a theme):
- Can only be used under the theme's license — they can't be extracted or used with a different theme.
- Are supported by the theme author, under the theme's Item Support during your support period.
- Are updated only when the theme itself is updated.
Tip: Bundled plugins add convenience and value to a theme purchase, saving you time and money. But if you think you'll want to use the plugin independently or with another theme later, it may be worth purchasing it separately from the start.
Are bundled plugin versions guaranteed to be compatible?
Only the specific plugin version included in your theme's bundle is guaranteed compatible. Always update all bundled components together — theme and plugins — to avoid compatibility issues.
My bundled plugin needs an update — what do I do?
If you're seeing an update alert, or the plugin has stopped working with your theme, it's likely because a newer plugin version was released. Unless you purchased the plugin separately, the theme author will include the updated plugin in their next theme update.
Contact your theme's author to ask when the update will be available.
I need support for my bundled plugin — who do I contact?
Contact the theme author — they're responsible for keeping every component in their item, including bundled plugins, up to date and working correctly.
Want direct support from the plugin's own author? Purchase the standalone version from CodeCanyon instead, which includes its own individual license and item support.