After you install MediaWiki, log in to the CMS, and presumably install extensions, it is time to learn how to find modules in MediaWiki.
What are MediaWiki Modules
Modules in MediaWiki are Lua-based scripts that allow you to add various functionalities to your wiki pages. For example, a module might handle various data calculations and provide you and your readers with custom formatting, or, maybe, enable integration with various software platforms.
Knowing how to find and use MediaWiki modules can help you enhance your workflow and improve the overall performance and efficiency of your website.
How to Find Modules in MediaWiki
Here’s a simple-to-follow guide to finding modules on a MediaWiki site:
- Use the Special Pages Tool
- Go to the Special Pages section of your wiki website. You can usually find them in the sidebar under the Tools menu.
- Once in the Tools menu, click All Pages.
- In the dropdown menu, choose Module.
- Click Go to see a comprehensive list of all modules on the site.
- Search Directly
If you know the module name you’re searching for, find it directly using the search bar. Type Module:<ModuleName> to locate the specific page. For example, searching for Module:MathFunctions will bring up the module associated with that name.
- Check Template Dependencies
In most cases, templates rely on modules to function properly. If you’re troubleshooting a template or want to see which module it depends on:
- Edit or view the template code.
- Look for lines like {{#invoke:ModuleName|functionName}}. This indicates the module and its associated function.
- Browse the Documentation
Larger MediaWiki installations or communities often maintain detailed documentation about the modules they use. Should this be the case, check the help or documentation pages on your wiki for a list of recommended or custom modules.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find modules in MediaWiki is important for optimizing your wiki’s functionality. Whether you’re troubleshooting templates, customizing content, or adding new features, the Module namespace is your go-to resource.
Read also:
- How to Install MediaWiki
- How to Log In to MediaWiki
- How to Install MediaWiki Extensions
- How to Create a Page in MediaWiki
- How to Install a MediaWiki Skin
- How to Add Infobox Module in MediaWiki
- How to Fix MediaWiki Internal Error: A Step-By-Step Guide
