Glossary: Plugin

Plugin

A Plugin in TYPO3 is a specific type of extension that outputs content in the frontend. It is inserted as a “Content Element of type Plugin” within the page module.

What Is a Plugin?

Technically, a plugin is a frontend-focused extension built with Extbase and Fluid that renders dynamic content. Common examples include:

• News or event listings
• Forms or interactive elements (e.g. polls, quizzes)
• Product filters or search results

Backend Integration

Editors add plugins via content elements of the “Plugin” type. Depending on configuration, they can choose between list or detail views.

Distinction from Extension

• Every plugin is part of an extension—but not every extension contains a plugin.
• An extension may also provide backend-only features or system services.

Typical Use Case

Plugins are used when you need to render interactive or dynamic frontend content, such as news feeds, user forms, or real-time data widgets.