Im trying to use Wordpress to build a website out of pages. Is there a way to disable comments so they do not even show? Or do I need to edit the php file in the theme editor? If so which file?
It could vary depending on the template, but if you want to completely remove the comments area for all posts, you'll have to edit the single.php and maybe the page.php (if your theme shows the comment box on pages). However, it could also be located in the index.php file or the footer.php file as well. In those files (check the single.php first), look for the: <?php comments_template(); ?> Code (markup): thing and delete that. However, as I'm not proficient in php, and I've never actually done this personally, it may not work as intended. But, regardless of whether it works or not, make a backup of your file before editing it. It doesn't have to be a proper backup, either -- just open a text document, copy and paste the file's contents into the new blank document, and then make your changes, save it, and test it. If it breaks something or doesn't work as intended, you'll still have the code that works so you can try something else.
When you are adding a new post, or a new page, there is an option to disable pings and comments (look down the page a bit), unticking the box will turn off the comments.
there is a way to disabled them all in the code, my blog they are all turned off due to spam. my webmaster did it. a simple google search should find out how to do it.
Keep in mind that commenting does help with search engine optimization because they help add content to the site keeping your content fresh and interactive.
Good point miche11e plus it also means when you comment on other blogs they are more likely to approve it, if they can comment back. Sadly I had to disable mine as spam bots were attacking like mad, and over powering my server! I hate spam bots