While when it comes to adding features of your DNN (DotNetNuke) site, modules are those convenient tools that offer new options. From improving content display to optimizing site performance, or introducing interactive functionality for the user, DNN modules provide scalable, ready-made solutions for common or niche requirements. Instead of re-inventing the wheel with custom programming, you can introduce built-in capabilities that are appropriate for your requirement.
In this post, we’ll explore a range of free and premium modules designed to enhance your DNN-powered site, covering everything from user interaction to multimedia display and content management.
Why Use DNN Modules?
One of the most powerful features of DNN is its module-based architecture. It enables developers and site administrators to deploy new functionality within a matter of minutes without changing the underlying system or even writing code from scratch. Modules simplify development and take away the complexities of content management in dynamic content on pages with dual layouts and collections of users.
Some typical applications for DNN modules are:
- Designing contact, survey, or feedback forms
- Inserting sliders, banners, or media galleries
- Inserting user profile and authentication functionality
- Inserting reporting or visualization functionality for data
- Inserting e-commerce functionality like carts or product catalogs
- Inserting SEO in the form of tagging and structured content
This flexibility allows site owners to concentrate on design, usability, and growth without being overwhelmed with duplicative development work.
Top Free DNN Modules
DNN Community Forms
This module is great for developing contact forms, feedback surveys, and generic data collection software. It avoids the process of custom development with the use of a drag-and-drop functionality and configurable fields.
DNN Blog
If a site revolves around content marketing or ongoing updates, DNN Blog offers all the functionality needed to publish blog posts like tagging, categorization, and support for comments.
DNN Gallery
For image-based sites such as portfolios or event sites, DNN Gallery allows you to display images in organized layouts. It supports various album types and is simple to use for end-users.
DNN Simple Article
This module exists only for simple article management, which can be extremely helpful on news sites, knowledge bases, or documentation sites. It offers a formalized process for publishing without unnecessary complexity.
Open Content
More sophisticated in its nature, Open Content is geared for developers that need the power to define custom structures and templates with JSON and Razor. It has extremely high levels of flexibility for handling structured content.
Top Paid DNN Modules
EasyDNN News
This publishing module with all the features is more than a blog. It has structured article support, event calendar support, tagging and SEO support. It also has social share and responsive layout out of the box, so it becomes a best option among professional content websites.
Mandeeps Live Forms
Live Forms is an active, enterprise-level form builder that has built-in support for conditional logic, payment gateways, and email workflow. It is a favorite tool of sites needing enhanced form processing without relying on custom scripts.
EasyDNN Gallery
An optional paid upgrade over the included gallery module, this add-on module provides multimedia content such as video, audio, and downloads. It features elegant layouts and silky smooth transitions to make for compelling visual experiences.
XMod Pro
Perfect for power users and developers, XMod Pro enables the creation of custom data grids, forms, and full applications without the need to create a separate backend. It’s a good option for those who need specialized functionality within the DNN environment.
DNN Sharp Action Form
An extremely flexible form module with a history of integrations and extensibility. From basic contact forms to multi-step applications based on conditional logic, Action Form can handle complex workflows with minimal configuration.
How to Select the Proper DNN Module
With all the options out there, choosing the proper module for your site is difficult. Below are some of the most critical factors to help direct your decision:
- Functionality: Make sure the module fits your business requirements and provides adequate customization to satisfy your content or user flows.
- Compatibility: Make sure the module is compatible with your DNN version to prevent performance or installation problems.
- Support and Documentation: Particularly critical with paid modules—look for developer support that is actively involved, frequent updates, and good documentation.
- Performance: Lightweight modules will load more quickly. Be wary of modules that put overhead on your site.
- Community Reputation: Modules with active user bases, good reviews, and frequent updates tend to be more stable in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Modules are the building blocks of a robust DNN website. They help you introduce new functionality swiftly, enhance user experience, and render your website agile as your business evolves. With a strategic choice of free and paid modules, you can tailor your DNN website to meet specific business demands without over-complicating things.
Whether you are building a content-centric site, hosting a corporate portal, or building a successful online store, DNN’s extensive module space gives the freedom to succeed. Try your possibilities, build freely in an environment, and deploy securely to propel your web presence to new levels.
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