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#wordpress #updates #maintenance #security #monthly

Updating WordPress Core and Plugins

Overview

Keeping WordPress and its plugins updated is essential for security and functionality. This should be done monthly or when critical security updates are released.

Prerequisites

  • Admin access to WordPress
  • Backup completed (see "Backing Up the Main Site")

Steps

Updating WordPress Core

  • Check for Updates
- Log into WordPress Admin - Look for update notifications in the dashboard
  • Backup First
- Always create a backup before updating (critical!) - See the backup instructions
  • Update WordPress
- Go to Dashboard → Updates - Click "Update Now" for WordPress core - Wait for the update to complete

Updating Plugins

  • Review Available Updates
- Go to Plugins → Installed Plugins - Look for plugins with update available
  • Update Plugins One at a Time
- Start with security-related plugins - Click "Update Now" for each plugin - Test site functionality after each update
  • Test Site
- Visit the front-end of the site - Check all major functionality - Test contact forms, search, etc.

Frequency

  • Monthly: First Tuesday of each month
  • Security Updates: As soon as possible when notified

Important Notes

  • Never update without a backup
  • If something breaks, restore from backup
  • Document any issues in the maintenance log

Related

  • See also: Backing Up the Main Site
  • Tags: #wordpress #security #monthly