The primary function of the Sidebar Login plugin lies within its name. It allows users to log into a WordPress website from a widget that can be placed in any widgetized area on your website, the sidebar being the most common spot hence the name. Moreover, the plugin is configured so that even if you have disabled the wp-login.php, you can still log in. This function offers two apparent benefits. First, it provides a more direct route for users to access their account. Second, it eliminates the need to direct users to a dedicated login page, thereby saving time and enhancing the user experience.

Apart from this core function, the 'Sidebar Login' plugin also provides options to customize the login widget. For instance, you can modify the headings, labels, links, layout, and even add links to your website's key pages like "Forgot Password" or "Register" within the widget. You can decide what to show users before and after they log in. This means you can determine what content or links users see based on their logged-in status, thereby providing a more personalized experience.

One common misconception about this plugin is that it only works in the sidebar. However, the 'Sidebar Login' plugin can actually be used in any widget-ready area of a WordPress site, which includes footers, headers, and others. This allows greater flexibility in terms of where you can install the login function, offering the opportunity to integrate the login tool into the most appropriate spot based upon your website's design and navigation structure.

Notably, the 'Sidebar Login' plugin is also integrated with Gravatar, showing users their avatar once logged in. The plugin complies with the GDPR guidelines, ensuring that your website respects the privacy and data protection rights of its users.