Keeping WordPress and Plugins Updated •

WordPress is a dynamic and ever-evolving Content Management System (CMS) designed to improve security, performance, and overall functionality with every update. Staying on top of these updates – both for the WordPress core and any installed plugins – is essential for keeping your website secure, stable, and running smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about updating WordPress, including how to handle updates for both free and premium plugins – manually or automatically.

Updating WordPress Core

  1. Always Back Up First
    Before making any updates, create a full backup of your site—files and database included. This safety net ensures you can easily roll things back if anything goes sideways during the update process.
  2. Check Compatibility
    Make sure your server meets the latest WordPress system requirements. You’ll find the most up-to-date specifications on the official WordPress site.
  3. Using Automatic Updates
    When a new version of WordPress is available, you’ll get a notification in your dashboard. Just click “Update Now”, and WordPress will handle the rest – quick and painless.
  4. Manual Updates (for full control)
    Prefer doing it manually or don’t have automatic updates enabled? Download the latest WordPress package from the official website. Then, using an FTP client:
    – Unzip the files.
    – Replace your site’s existing core files (except wp-content and wp-config.php to keep your settings and content intact).

Updating Plugins

  1. Backup Again (Yes, Again)
    Even if you’ve already backed up before updating WordPress, do it again before updating plugins. Better safe than sorry.
  2. Quick Updates via Dashboard
    Go to the “Plugins” tab in your admin area. You’ll see update notifications for any outdated plugins. Just click “Update Now” next to each one. WordPress will download and install the latest version automatically.
  3. Manual Plugin Updates (Free Plugins)
    For plugins not hosted on the WordPress.org directory:
    – Download the latest version from the official source.
    – Deactivate and delete the existing plugin in your dashboard.
    – Upload the new version, install it, and reactivate.

Updating Premium Plugins (Manual Process)

  1. Get the Latest Version
    Log in to the vendor’s website and download the latest version of your premium plugin.
  2. Upload via FTP or File Manager
    Use your preferred method (FTP or your hosting provider’s file manager) to upload the updated plugin to the wp-content/plugins/ directory.
  3. Activate & Add License Key
    After uploading, activate the plugin in your dashboard. If it requires a license key, be sure to enter it in the plugin settings to ensure you get future updates and support.

Many premium plugins support in-dashboard updates once activated and licensed – just like free plugins.

Final Steps After Updating

  • Test Your Site
    Once updates are complete, browse through your site thoroughly. Check contact forms, key pages, custom functionality – anything users interact with. This helps you catch and fix issues early.
  • Stay Updated
    Keep an eye on plugin changelogs and developer announcements. Updates often include critical security patches, so staying informed gives you a major advantage.

By following these steps regularly, you’ll keep your WordPress site secure, optimized, and ready for anything the web throws at it. Maintenance might not be glamorous – but it’s what keeps your digital presence strong.

If you’re unsure or run into any issues, the team at Dweet Design is here to support you. Submit a request through our Ticket System, and our experts will walk you through the timeline, scope, and pricing for whatever assistance you need.

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