How to Create and Manage Magento 2 CMS Pages with Widgets?

• Benefits of Creating New Pages with CMS Blocks and Widgets

• Key Attributes for Magento CMS Pages

• 4 Methods to Create CMS Pages in Magento 2

• Techniques to Optimize Performance When Adding CMS Pages in Magento 2 Admin Panel

• 6 Steps to Edit an Existing CMS Page in Magento Admin Panel

• Advanced CMS Customization for Creating Custom Static Pages in the Magento 2 Backend

• 6 Steps to Import CMS Pages to Magento 2

• 9 Steps to Export CMS Pages from Magento 2

• Advanced Configuration for Automating and Creating Magento 2 CMS Page Import Jobs

• CMS Best Practices for Managing E-commerce Content Pages in Magento 2

• Troubleshooting Common CMS Page Content Element Issues in the Magento 2 Ecommerce Platform

• FAQs

• Summary

Benefits of Creating New Pages with CMS Blocks and Widgets

1. Dynamic Content Integration

• Widget support for real-time content updates
• Custom variables for store-wide information
• Blocks of reusable content across multiple pages
• Real-time inventory levels through dynamic product widgets
• Personalized product recommendations based on browsing history
• Live social media feeds and customer reviews
• Interactive forms with conditional logic
• Dynamic content integration like product sliders, testimonials, or banners

2. Multi-Store Management

• Different versions for different markets
• Language-specific content handling
• Store-specific promotions and messaging
• Content synchronization between stores
• Translation management workflows
• Store-specific content scheduling
• Global content updates with local exceptions

3. Content Types Supported

• Rich text and HTML
• Custom XML layouts
• Media integration (images, videos)
• Interactive elements through widgets
• Dynamic product displays
• Magento 2 custom forms and contact information

4. Marketing Benefits

• Targeted landing pages
• Magento A/B testing for different content versions
• Seasonal campaign pages
• Banners, pop-ups, or promotions to drive sales directly through CMS pages

5. SEO Advantages

• Custom metadata for each page
• URL key optimization
• Content hierarchy management
• Properly designed CMS pages for better control over SEO optimization for your store

6. User Experience

• Mobile-responsive layouts
• Fast loading times
• Consistent branding across pages
• Customized pages for a smoother, more engaging user journey

7. Technical Capabilities

• Custom design updates
• Schedule-based content changes
• Advanced XML customization
• Integration with Magento Page Builder
• Content versioning and rollback options
• Advanced customization with minimal technical knowledge

Key Attributes for Magento CMS Pages

Attributes	Description	Format	Example
creation_time	Creation date	yy/mm/dd	17/05/10
title	Page title text	Any text	Sample page title
identifier	URL key	Lowercase, numbers, underscores, dashes	sample_page_url
store_view_code	Store view assignment	Comma-separated codes or 'All'	All, default
is_active	Page status	0 or 1	1
content_heading	Content header	Any text	Sample content heading
content	Main content	Text with HTML	<p>Hello, world</p>
page_layout	Page structure	1column, 2columns-left, 2columns-right, 3columns	2 columns-left
meta_title	SEO title	Any text	Sample page meta title
meta_keywords	SEO keywords	Comma-separated terms	sample, meta, keywords
meta_description	SEO description	Any text	Sample description
layout_update_xml	Custom XML	Valid XML code	<referenceContainer...>
custom_theme	Theme selection	Theme path	Default theme/Magento Luma theme
custom_root_template	Layout template	1column, 2columns-left, 2columns-right, 3columns	3 columns
custom_theme_from	Theme start date	mm/dd/yy	3/2/19
custom_theme_to	Theme end date	mm/dd/yy	3/29/19

4 Methods to Create CMS Pages in Magento 2

Method 1: Add a new CMS Page in Magento 2

1. Log in to the Magento Admin Panel.
2. Go to Content > Elements > Pages.
3. Click 'Add New Page'.

4. Enter the 'Page Title' and the metadata, which will appear in the browser's title bar and tab.

5. Provide a 'URL Key' for the page. This key will be added to the base URL to create the page's unique address.

Note: Use only lowercase characters and hyphens, avoiding spaces.

6. In the 'Store View' list, select the store view where the page will be displayed.
7. If the page is not ready to go live, set its status to "Disable".

Note: Remember to update the status to "Enable" when the page is ready for publishing.

8. Click 'Save and Continue Edit' to store your changes.
9. Expand the Content section.
10. Add the main heading under 'Content Heading'.
11. Use the 'Show / Hide Editor' option to add or edit the text using the WYSIWYG editor in Magento 2.

12. Expand the Search Engine Optimization section.
13. Fill in details such as the 'URL Key', 'Meta Title', 'Meta Keywords', and 'Meta Description'.

14. Expand the 'Pages in Websites' section.
15. Choose the appropriate "Store View" where the page will appear.

16. Expand the Design section.
17. Select the 'Page Layout' and optionally add "Layout Update XML".
18. Under this field, choose a layout from the dropdown options:
    • 1 Column
    • 2 Columns with Left Bar
    • 2 Columns with Right Bar
    • 3 Columns
19. Use the ‘Custom Design Update’ section to set temporary designs and further customize the page.

• Choose a new theme or layout from the dropdown menus.

• Change the "theme", "layout", or "style".
• Set a specific time period for the design (e.g., "holidays" or "sales").

20. To check the settings and formatting, click the 'Preview' link in the upper-right corner.
21. Return to the 'Page Information' tab and set the 'Status' to "Enabled".
22. Click on the 'Save Page' button to store your settings.
23. Clear your store’s cache to ensure the changes are visible.

Method 2: Create a New Block using Magento 2 CMS Blocks

1. Navigate to Content > Elements > Blocks.
2. Click 'Add New Block'.

3. Enable the block and provide a 'Block Title'.

4. Enter a unique "Identifier" (lowercase, without spaces; use underscores instead).
5. Select the 'Store View' for the block.
6. Add content to the block (e.g., "text", "links", "images", or "tables").
7. Click on the 'Save' button to save the block configuration.
8. Clear your store’s cache to ensure the changes are visible.

Method 3: Create a New Widget using Magento 2 CMS

1. Navigate to Content > Elements > Widgets.
2. Click 'Add New Widget'.

3. Select the 'Widget Type' and the 'Design Theme'.

4. Click on the 'Continue' button.
5. Add a 'Widget Title' and assign it to specific 'Store Views'.

6. Enter the 'Sort Order' (use 0 for the top position).
7. Use the 'Add Layout Update' button to specify where the widget should appear.

• Choose a location in the 'Display On' dropdown (e.g., product or category pages).
• Set the 'Page', 'Container', and 'Template' for widget placement.

8. Under Widget Options, select the desired block.

9. Click 'Save and Continue Edit' to finalize settings, then save the configuration.
10. Clear your store’s cache to ensure the changes are visible.

Method 4: Assign a Homepage in Magento CMS Pages and Blocks

1. Complete the steps to create the new page.
2. In the Admin Panel, navigate to Stores > Settings > Configuration.
3. Under General, select "Web" from the left panel.
4. Expand the 'Default Pages' section in the Expansion Selector.
5. Check the configuration steps below:

• Default Web URL: Enter the relative path to the folder containing the landing page. By default, cms points to a page from the Commerce content management system. You can use other types of landing pages, like a blog (e.g., magento/blog).

Note: For a specific store view, uncheck the "Use system value" checkbox or any other settings you want to change.

• CMS Home Page: Set it to the page you want as the store’s homepage. Other created pages can also be used, such as:

  • Welcome to the Exclusive Online Store
  • Rewards Points
  • About Us
  • Customer Service
  • Enable Cookies
  • Privacy Policy
  • Access Denied

• Default No-route URL: Enter the relative path for the page that will be shown when a 404 error occurs. The default value is cms/index/noRoute.

• CMS No Route Page: Set it to the page displayed for a 404 error.

• CMS No Cookies Page: Set it to the page shown when cookies are disabled in the browser. It explains how to enable cookies. The default is "Enable Cookies".

• Show Breadcrumbs for CMS Pages: If you want breadcrumbs on all CMS pages, set it to "Yes".

6. Click 'Save Config' when done.
7. In the 'CMS Page' field, select the newly created page as the Home Page.
8. Save the configuration.
9. Clear the cache by clicking the Cache Management link in the system message.

Techniques to Optimize Performance When Adding CMS Pages in Magento 2 Admin Panel

Optimization Area	Implementation	Performance Impact
Caching Configuration	- Enable Magento Full Page Cache (TTL: 86400). - Implement Varnish Caching for large stores. - Configure cache warming schedules.	- Improved server load performance and response time - Enhanced page delivery speed - Prevention of cache misses
Image Handling	- Enable lazy loading. - Compress images without quality loss. - Convert to WebP format.	- Increased initial page load time - Size reduction - Better compression ratio
Mobile Optimization	- Implement responsive design. - Use hardware acceleration for animations. - Create separate CSS files for mobile.	- Consistent performance across devices - Smoother mobile experience - Faster mobile page loading
JavaScript Management	- Enable deferred loading. - Implement JS bundling. - Minify JS files.	- Faster content rendering - Reduced HTTP requests - Smaller file sizes
Content Delivery	- Implement CDN integration with Magento. - Use Progressive JPEG loading. - Enable CSS optimization.	- Faster global content delivery - Better perceived performance - Reduced style processing time
Performance Monitoring	- Regular cache monitoring. - Performance benchmarking. - User experience tracking.	- Maintenance of optimal performance - Identification of bottlenecks - Validation of optimization efforts

6 Steps to Edit an Existing CMS Page in Magento Admin Panel

1. Navigate to Content > Pages in the Admin Panel to view the list of existing pages.
2. You can use the 'Search function' or the 'Filters button' to quickly locate the page you want to edit.
3. Directly from the main screen, you can:

• Change the "Page Title".
• Update the "URL".
• Adjust the "Layout".
• Make the page "visible" or "hidden".

4. In the 'Action' column, click "Select" to see additional options.

5. Choose from the available actions, such as editing or duplicating the page.
6. Check multiple pages and use the 'dropdown menu' to apply actions like:

• Enabling pages
• Disabling pages
• Deleting pages

Advanced CMS Customization for Creating Custom Static Pages in the Magento 2 Backend

Customization Type	Implementation Method	Technical Details	Impact on CMS Pages
XML Layout Structure	Custom XML File Creation	Create file: cms_page_view_id_<identifier>.xml in layout folder	Defines unique page structures and content placement
Layout Options	Built-in Layouts	- Empty layout - 1 column - 2 columns (left/right bar) - 3 columns	Provides a foundation for content organization
Custom Design Updates	Admin Panel Configuration	Apply through the 'Custom Design Update' field	Enables temporary or scheduled design changes
Dynamic Content Blocks	Widget Integration	Place in XML layout or content area	Creates reusable content components
Theme Customization	Frontend/Backend theming	Modify in app/design/frontend/ directory	Controls visual presentation and styling
Container Management	XML References	<referenceContainer> tags in layout files	Manages content block positioning
Custom CSS/JS	Asset Integration	Add in Magento theme's web directory	Enhances page functionality and styling
Layout Handles	URL-Based Configuration	Format: cms_page_view_selectable_[url-key]	Enables page-specific layouts
Block Placement	XML Block Declaration	Define through <block> elements	Controls content module positioning
Admin Interface	Backend Theme Updates	Customize through admin theme XML	Improves content management workflow

6 Steps to Import CMS Pages to Magento 2

Step 1: Create a New Import Job

1. Navigate to System > Improved Import/Export > Import Jobs.
2. Click 'Add New Job' to create a new import task.

Step 2: Configure General Settings

Under the General Settings tab:

• Enable Job: Enable this field.

• Job Title: Assign a "title" to the job.

• Cron Schedule: Set a "schedule" if you plan to automate recurring imports.

• Locale: Select the preferred language (locale).

• Enable or disable options like:

  • Unique URL generation
  • Re-index after import
  • Email notifications

Step 3: Set Import Settings

1. Go to the Import Settings section.
2. Choose "CMS Page" as the import entity.
3. Enable or disable API synchronization as needed.
4. Select the platform from which you're importing data.
5. Apply a mapping preset to align external designations with Magento 2's standards.

Step 4: Define Import Behavior

1. Go to the 'Import Behavior' tab.
2. Choose one of the following import methods:

• Add/Update: Add new data or update existing records.
• Replace: Overwrite existing data entirely.
• Delete: Remove selected data.

3. Specify a "validation strategy", "error limits", and "data separators".

Step 5: Specify the Import Source

Under the 'Import Source' tab:

• Select the file type (e.g., "CSV").

• Specify the source of your import file:

  • Server
  • URL
  • Google Sheets
  • Direct Upload
  • Dropbox

Step 6: Run the Import

1. Once all configurations are complete, click 'Save & Run' in the top-right corner.
2. The Import Magento 2 CMS Page module will process and import the CMS pages into Magento 2.

Note: Pages created using Page Builder follow the same attribute formatting. The content is stored in the ‘content’ column. It shares the same structure as CMS pages created manually.

9 Steps to Export CMS Pages from Magento 2

1. Navigate to System > Improved Import/Export > Export Jobs.
2. Click 'Add New Job' to create a new export task.

3. Under the 'General Settings' tab:

• Enable the "export job".
• Provide a "title" for the task.
• Set a "frequency" for the export process or leave it blank for a one-time operation.
• Select a "file language" and configure additional attribute separation if needed.

4. In the 'Export Settings' tab:

• Choose ‘Magento 2 CMS Pages’ as the entity to export.
• Enable the Consecutive Export option if required.

5. Under the 'Export Behavior' tab:

• Select the file format (e.g., "CSV").
• Specify separators for the exported data.

6. Go to the 'Export Source' tab:

• Choose the export destination: FTP, SFTP, or a data file.
• For FTP/SFTP, verify the connection to ensure proper transfer.

7. If the receiving system has unique attribute requirements, use the mapping feature to align the data structure.
8. Apply filters to refine the exported data for specific needs.

9. Click 'Save & Run' in the top-right corner to begin the export process.

Advanced Configuration for Automating and Creating Magento 2 CMS Page Import Jobs

Configuration Area	Setting	Description	Best Practice
Basic Setup	- Page Hierarchy - Store View Assignment - URL Structure	- Configure parent-child relationships between CMS pages. - Define page visibility across stores. - Set unique identifiers for pages.	- Enable hierarchy functionality for better content organization. - Use 'All' for global content and specific codes for targeted content. - Use lowercase with hyphens for SEO-friendly URLs.
SEO Configuration	- Meta Information - Canonical Tags - XML Sitemap	- Title, keywords, description - Duplicate content management - Search engine indexing	- Include target keywords naturally in meta fields. - Enable for both product and category pages. - Include sensitive CMS pages in the sitemap.
Content Management System	- Custom Variables - Widget Integration - Page Layout	- Dynamic content insertion - Interactive elements - Content structure	- Create reusable content blocks for consistent messaging. - Use the Insert Widget button for dynamic content placement. - Choose an appropriate template based on content needs.
Automation Settings	- Schedule - Data Validation - Import Rules	- Automated imports - Content verification - Content mapping	- Set a cron schedule in Magento for regular content updates. - Enable pre-import validation to prevent errors. - Define clear mapping rules for consistent imports.
Advanced Features	- Multi-store Import - Version Control - Custom Design	- Content distribution - Content tracking - Theme integration	- Configure store-specific content variations. - Enable content versioning for change management. - Set theme-specific layouts and updates.

CMS Best Practices for Managing E-commerce Content Pages in Magento 2

Management Area	Best Practice	Implementation Strategy	Expected Outcome
Organization	Hierarchical Structure	- Logical page categories - Consistent naming conventions - Folder-based organization	Improved content findability and management
Version Control	Content Tracking	- Revision history - Change documentation - Backup version maintenance	Secure content management and easy rollbacks
Security	Access Management	- Role-based permissions - Regular security audits - Content approval workflows	Protected content and controlled access
Backup Strategy	Automated Systems	- Daily automated backups - Multiple backup locations - Quick recovery procedures	Data security and business continuity
SEO Implementation	Search Optimization	- Optimized meta-descriptions - Strategic keyword placement - Image alt tags	Improved search visibility
Conversion Focus	User Experience	- Clear CTAs - Magento A/B testing - Conversion tracking	Higher conversion rates
Content Personalization	Customer Segmentation	- Group-specific content - Dynamic pricing displays - Targeted promotions	Enhanced user engagement
Mobile Strategy	Responsive Design	- Mobile-first approach - Speed optimization - Touch-friendly elements	Better mobile user experience
Content Updates	Maintenance Schedule	- Regular content audits - Scheduled updates - Performance monitoring	Fresh and relevant content
Import/Export	Data Management	- Automated imports - Regular exports - Data validation	Efficient content management

Troubleshooting Common CMS Page Content Element Issues in the Magento 2 Ecommerce Platform

Issue Category	Problem Description	Solution	Impact
Content Saving	Content won't save within CMS pages	- Check mod_security logs for blocked saves. - Verify no suspicious MySQL injections. - Adjust server security settings.	Ensures content updates are preserved
Widget Updates	Widget content not refreshing	- Clear the Magento 2 cache after widget updates. - Verify widget configuration. - Check product visibility settings.	Maintains dynamic content accuracy
Performance	Slow-loading CMS pages	- Enable flat categories. - Optimize JavaScript/CSS. - Use lightweight themes.	Improves user experience
Cache Management	Content updates not visible	- Clear specific cache types. - Run the cache:flush command. - Verify cache settings.	Ensures content freshness
Content Display	Layout and formatting issues	- Check XML layout updates. - Verify theme compatibility. - Review block positioning.	Maintains visual consistency
SEO Elements	Under-optimized content	- Implement proper meta tags. - Add rich snippets. - Optimize content structure.	Improves search visibility
Mobile Responsiveness	Content display issues on mobile	- Use responsive design patterns. - Test across devices. - Optimize image sizing.	Ensures multi-device compatibility
Content Hierarchy	Disorganized page structure	- Implement logical page categories. - Use consistent naming conventions. - Maintain clear navigation.	Improves content findability
Static Content	Default page issues	- Verify core content pages. - Check page permissions. - Update default templates.	Maintains essential pages
Content Blocks	Block placement problems	- Review XML widget definitions. - Check block visibility settings. - Verify store view assignments.	Ensures proper content positioning

FAQs

1. Why do I get a 404 Not Found error for Magento CMS pages?

A "404 Not Found" error occurs when the CMS page URL is missing. Check if the page is published and the URL key is valid. If necessary, update or re-index the URL key.

2. How do I use blocks of content effectively in Magento 2 CMS?

Yes, you can display parts of your catalog using widgets or blocks. The Content Tab allows you to edit CMS page content. Add them via this tab or directly in your layout. It improves navigation and engagement. Then, use it to add text, images, or widgets. Finally, access it from the page and add or edit options in the admin panel.

3. Why do I need to create customer groups in Magento 2 CMS?

Customer groups help you easily manage personalized content and promotions. They can also be used to customize experiences and target marketing efforts. It allows you to increase the conversion rate.

4. What causes a 503 Service Unavailable error while managing Magento CMS pages?

A "503 Service Unavailable" error means the site is in maintenance. Enable cookies, clear the cache, and check server logs. It allows you to identify and resolve the issue.

5. How can I resolve configuration issues in Magento 2 CMS?

Use the CMS pages and admin tools. Each section allows you to configure specific settings.

6. How can I easily find CMS content options in Magento?

In Magento, navigate to the content tab. At the top right corner of the screen, click "Add New." This section allows you to select various CMS pages. You can use them to create new content or edit existing pages.

7. Where can I manage content in the Magento Admin Panel?

To manage content in Magento, open the content tab. In the top right corner of the screen, you’ll see options to add or edit CMS pages. The section provides the ability to create new blocks or pages. You can use them to develop and organize content easily in the Magento Admin Panel.

Summary

Magento 2 CMS Pages simplify content creation. They help you:

• Maintain a professional look across your online store.
• Enable enhanced customization without technical expertise.
• Manage your site content using widgets and custom design updates.
• Enhance the flexibility of your design.
• Ensure your store stays user-friendly and professional.
• Improve customer satisfaction by providing a drag-and-drop interface.

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