Ask Do I need a membership site software to start a membership site?

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I'm planning to start a membership site but not sure if I need special software for it. I've come across different membership platforms and tools. But I'm wondering if there's a way to build and manage one without them yet maintain smooth operation. Can I set up user access, payments, and restricted content manually on the control panel. I want to ask that is membership software necessary to keep everything running smoothly?


For those with experience, is it possible to run a successful membership site without using dedicated membership software?