There are several reasons why understanding WordPress plugins is important, especially for website owners or administrators who use WordPress as their website platform. Here are some of the top reasons:

1. Customization: Understanding plugins allows website owners to customize their website to meet their specific needs and add new features that are not included in the core WordPress installation.

2. Functionality: Plugins can be used to extend the functionality of a WordPress website, such as adding e-commerce capabilities, search engine optimization, social media integration, and more.

3. Efficiency: By understanding plugins, website owners can select the best plugins for their needs, which can save time and increase efficiency. For example, a plugin for automating social media sharing can save time compared to manually posting on multiple social media platforms.

4. Security: Understanding plugins can help website owners make informed decisions about which plugins to use, which can reduce the risk of security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers or malware.

5. Compatibility: It's important to understand plugins to ensure they are compatible with the version of WordPress being used and with other plugins installed on the website. Incompatible plugins can cause errors, slowdowns, or other issues.

6. Performance: Understanding plugins can help website owners optimize their website's performance by selecting lightweight plugins that don't slow down the website, or by disabling unnecessary plugins that may be causing performance issues.

Overall, understanding WordPress plugins is essential for anyone who manages or owns a WordPress website, as it allows them to optimize their website's functionality, security, and performance, while also providing a customized experience for their visitors.