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v 1.0.0
Last updated: 11/03/2026
Local User Avatar
On-site profile photos instead of Gravatar—simple for members and hosts.
Overview
Local User Avatar lets users upload a custom profile picture that is stored on your site instead of Gravatar. Avatars are stored in the media library and override Gravatar when set. Users can upload or replace their avatar from Users → Profile (or when editing their profile). The avatar appears everywhere get_avatar() is used—admin, comments, author boxes, etc. All data stays on your server for privacy and faster loading. Works alongside Alphabet Avatars—local avatars take precedence when set. No configuration needed.
Who is this for?
Site owners who want avatars without Gravatar, prefer privacy (no external requests), or need faster avatar loading.
Features
Upload from Profile
Users upload or replace their avatar from Profile (or when an admin edits their profile). Uses the WordPress media library.
Overrides Gravatar
When a local avatar is set, it replaces Gravatar everywhere get_avatar() is used. No Gravatar request is made.
Stored on Your Server
Avatars are stored as media attachments. No external services. Privacy- friendly and faster.
Works with Alphabet Avatars
If both modules are enabled, local avatar takes precedence. When no local avatar is set, Alphabet Avatars can provide a fallback.
Hides Core Profile Picture
The default WordPress profile picture section is hidden. The Local Avatar section replaces it.
How It Works
1
Enable the Module
Go to WP PowerSuite, find "Local User Avatar," and click the Enable button.
2
Upload Avatar
Go to Users → Your Profile (or edit any user). Use "Upload Avatar" or "Replace" in the Profile Picture section. Select an image from the media library. No configuration needed.
Performance Note
Lightweight. Uses get_avatar filter. When local avatar is set, no external Gravatar request—faster and no third-party dependency. One attachment lookup per avatar display.
Installation & Activation
1
Install WP PowerSuite
Make sure the WP PowerSuite plugin is installed and activated on your site.
2
Enable the Module
Go to the WP PowerSuite menu, find "Local User Avatar" in the module list, and click the Enable button.
3
Set Avatars
Users can upload avatars from their profile. Admins can set avatars when editing any user.
Requirements
PHP 8.1 or higher
WordPress 6.0 or higher
Permission to edit user (for profile) or edit_user (for others)
Use Cases
- GravatarDisableAvoid Gravatar for privacy or performance
- DataControlKeep all user data on your server
- PerformanceBoostFaster avatar loading (no external requests)
- AvatarBrandingCustom branding without Gravatar dependency
Frequently Asked Questions
Can users remove their avatar?
Yes. Click “Remove” in the profile section. Gravatar or Alphabet Avatars (if enabled) will be used as fallback.
Does this work in comments?
Yes. Anywhere get_avatar() is used—comments, author boxes, admin—the local avatar appears when set.
Troubleshooting
- Avatar not showingEnsure the user has uploaded an avatar in their profile. Check that the module is enabled. Clear cache if using a caching plugin.
- Upload button not workingEnsure the media library is available (no JavaScript errors). Check that the user has upload_files permission (or edit_user for admins editing others).
