A content management system enables you to create, manage, and deploy content on web pages. It requires almost no technical skill or knowledge. Within minutes, you can get a new site up and running.

Here is a list of free content management systems. Some of the systems, such as WordPress and Joomla, have large developer communities and offer thousands of extensions. Most of the systems are open source. All of the systems have free versions, though some have paid enterprise editions or fees for support services.

WordPress

WordPress started as just a blogging system, but has evolved to a full content management system through the thousands of plugins, widgets, and themes. Over 60 million people have chosen WordPress to power their sites.

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Joomla

Joomla is an award-winning open source CMS that enables you to build websites and powerful online applications. Many aspects — including ease-of-use and extensibility — have made Joomla a popular choice for developers. Harvard University and IHOP are two sites using Joomla.

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Drupal

Drupal is a free software package that allows you to easily organize, manage and publish your content, with an endless variety of customization. Drupal is open source software maintained and developed by a community of 630,000 users and developers. Drupal hosts a marketplace of community contributors to support the Drupal project.

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SilverStripe

SilverStripe is an open source web content management system used by businesses and organizations around the world. SilverStripe CMS enables websites and applications to contain stunning design, great content, and compelling interactive and social functions. Besides a powerful and intuitive content authoring application, SilverStripe CMS contains a powerful PHP5-based programming framework.

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CushyCMS

CushyCMS is a simple content management system for both content editors and designers. You define what is editable. Cushy will take care of the rest, automatically handling text, HTML, and images. No programming required and no server requirements. Price: Free for up to five sites; Pro accounts for $28 per month for unlimited sites, additional customization, and support.

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Contao

Contao is an open source CMS for people who want a professional Internet presence that is easy to maintain. It offers a high security standard and allows you to develop search engine friendly websites. Easy management of user rights, the live update service, the modern CSS framework, and many integrated modules make Contao an appealing content management system.

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dotCMS

dotCMS removes the technical issues from website change and allows organizations to move ideas to market in days, not weeks. It couples a Java architecture with an easy and intuitive user interface. Lower your time-to-market, and increase traffic with a targeted and engaging online experience. Community version is free; request pricing for enterprise edition.