Keeping WordPress up to date is important for your website’s security and performance. But updating can be a bit scary. The fear of breaking your site and losing data can make you hesitant. Don’t worry; updating WordPress can be safe and straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Prepare Your Site Before Updating
Before jumping into the update process, proper preparation is key. A well-prepared site is less likely to face issues during and after the update. Here are essential steps to prepare your WordPress site:
1. Check Compatibility:
Make sure your themes and plugins are compatible with the new WordPress version. Visit the official WordPress website or the developer’s sites to check compatibility notes. Incompatible themes or plugins can cause your site to break or malfunction after the update.
2. Disable Unnecessary Plugins:
Deactivate plugins that you don’t need during the update process. This reduces the risk of conflicts and makes the update smoother. Reactivate them one by one after updating to check for any issues.
3. Update Themes and Plugins:
Before updating WordPress, ensure all themes and plugins are up to date. Developers often release updates to make their products compatible with the latest WordPress version. Keeping them up to date prevents conflicts and security issues.
4. Check Site Health:
Use the Site Health tool in your WordPress dashboard to check for any critical issues or recommended improvements. Address any issues before proceeding with the update to ensure your site is in optimal condition.
5. Review Change logs:
Read the change logs for the new WordPress version and your installed plugins/themes. Knowing what changes or features might impact your site help you prepare better and avoids unpleasant surprises.
Being diligent in these preparation steps ensures your site is ready for the update, making the process smoother and less risky.
Backup Your WordPress Site
Backing up your site is a crucial safety step. It protects your data and allows you to restore your site if something goes wrong. Here’s how to create a full backup of your WordPress site:
1. Choose a Backup Method:
You can choose manual backups or use a plugin. Plugins like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy simplify the process by automating backups and storing them securely. For manual backups, you’ll need to use tools like cPanel or FTP to download your site files and export your database.
2. Backup Files and Database:
A complete backup includes your site files (themes, plugins, uploads) and the database (posts, pages, settings). Ensure you back up everything. With a plugin, this is usually done with one click. For manual methods, download all files via FTP and export the database using phpMyAdmin.
3. Store Backups Safely:
Store your backups in multiple locations for extra security. You can use cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or external hard drives. This ensures that you still have a backup even if one location fails.
4. Verify the Backup:
After creating a backup, verify it to make sure it’s complete and can be restored if needed. Some plugins allow you to test restore options. For manual backups, check that all files are downloaded and that the database export is complete.
5. Schedule Regular Backups:
Set up a regular backup schedule to keep your site protected. Daily or weekly backups are a good practice, depending on how often you update your site content. This keeps your data safe and up to date.
With a full backup in place, you have a safety net that can save you in case something goes wrong during the update process. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your hard work is protected.
Apply the Update Safely
With your site prepared and backed up, it’s time to apply the update. Updating WordPress safely requires a few careful steps to ensure everything goes smoothly.
1. Update Core WordPress:
Begin by updating WordPress core. Navigate to the Dashboard in your WordPress admin area. If an update is available, you’ll see a notification. Click on “Update Now”. WordPress will handle the rest. Avoid refreshing the page while the update is in progress.
2. Update Themes and Plugins:
After updating WordPress core, proceed with updating your themes and plugins. Go to the “Updates” section in your dashboard and update each item one at a time. This approach helps identify if a specific theme or plugin causes issues.
3. Re-enable Plugins:
If you disabled plugins before the update, re-enable them one by one. Check your site after activating each plugin to ensure it works properly. If any issues arise, you’ll be able to identify the problematic plugin easily.
4. Check for Errors:
Once the updates are applied, visit different parts of your website to check for errors. Look for issues like broken links, missing images, or functional problems. Fix any errors you find quickly to keep your site functioning smoothly.
5. Clear Cache:
After updating, clear your site’s cache. This includes browser cache and any caching plugins you use. Clearing cache ensures visitors see the updated version of your site without issues caused by cached files.
Updating WordPress safely involves taking your time and following these steps. By being methodical, you minimise the risk of problems and keep your site running seamlessly.
Test Your Site After Updating
Testing your site after an update is critical. It helps ensure everything works as expected and that the update didn’t cause any new issues. Here’s how to test your site thoroughly:
1. Check Front-End Functionality:
Visit your website and navigate through different pages. Test links, forms, and interactive elements. Ensure everything displays and functions correctly. If you have an online shop, place a test order to ensure the checkout process works smoothly.
2. Review Back-End Functionality:
Log in to your WordPress admin area and check the dashboard. Test features like adding a new post, updating settings, and managing media. Make sure all admin functionalities are working without issues.
3. User Roles and Permissions:
If your site has multiple user roles, test each role to ensure permissions are set correctly. Check if users can perform their specific tasks without encountering errors or restrictions.
4. Mobile Responsiveness:
Test your site on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. Ensure the design is responsive and that the site functions well on smaller screens. Use tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test for a quick check.
5. Monitor Site Speed:
Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to check your site’s loading times. Updates should not negatively impact your site speed. If you notice a slowdown, investigate and optimise accordingly.
6. Confirm Security Settings:
Double-check your security settings and ensure your security plugins are active and functioning. Run another malware scan to confirm that your site is clean and secure after the update.
By testing your site thoroughly, you ensure it remains in top shape after the update. This step helps maintain a positive user experience and prevents future issues.
Conclusion
Updating WordPress safely without breaking your site may seem daunting, but following these steps makes it manageable. Start by preparing your site and checking for potential issues. Backup your site to have a fallback option in case anything goes wrong. Apply the update carefully, taking your time to follow each step. Finally, test your site thoroughly to ensure everything works as expected and fix any issues that arise.
Keeping your WordPress site updated is crucial for security and performance. If you need expert help, ThriveWP is here to support you. Our WordPress maintenance services ensure your site stays up to date and running smoothly. Contact ThriveWP today to secure your website and enjoy peace of mind.
