How to Update WordPress Safely: The Complete 2025 Guide for Every Website Owner

Keeping your WordPress website updated is one of the most important aspects of managing a secure, fast, and reliable online presence. However, updating WordPress comes with its risks. A poorly managed update can cause site crashes, compatibility issues, and even data loss. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to update WordPress safely, with clear step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and troubleshooting advice to help you maintain your website without stress.

Why You Must Know How to Update WordPress Safely

Updating WordPress is essential but doing it improperly can cause problems. Here are reasons why mastering how to update WordPress safely matters:

  • Protect Your Site from Security Threats: WordPress core updates often patch vulnerabilities hackers exploit. Failing to update leaves your site exposed.
  • Ensure Compatibility: Plugins and themes rely on the core version. If you update WordPress but not your plugins/themes (or vice versa), your site may break.
  • Improve Site Performance: Updates include speed and resource optimization that keeps your site running smoothly.
  • Gain Access to New Features: Updates provide improved functionalities that enhance user experience.
  • Avoid Data Loss: Without proper precautions, updates can overwrite or corrupt your files and database.
  • Minimize Downtime: A safe update process helps keep your site online and available.
  • Maintain SEO Rankings: A broken or slow website after an update can hurt your Google rankings.
  • Save Time and Money: Avoid costly fixes and developer fees by following best practices.

Understanding how to update WordPress safely protects your investment and keeps your visitors happy.

Preparing Your Site: The Foundation of Safe WordPress Updates

Before pressing the update button, preparation is key. The following checklist ensures your site is ready:

1. Create a Full Backup

  • Why: Backups protect your site data from accidental loss or corruption during updates.
  • How: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus, BackupBuddy, or your hosting control panel to back up both files and database.
  • Tip: Store backups in remote locations like Google Drive or Dropbox, not just your hosting server.
  • Frequency: Take backups before every update, regardless of minor or major release.
  • Testing: Occasionally test backup restoration on a staging site to confirm reliability.
  • Automate: Set up scheduled backups for regular safety.
  • Security: Secure backups with encryption when possible to protect sensitive data.
  • Documentation: Keep records of backups for quick access when needed.

2. Check Your PHP and Server Environment Compatibility

  • Why: WordPress updates may require minimum PHP versions for proper functionality.
  • How: Check your current PHP version in your hosting control panel or by installing a plugin like “Display PHP Version.”
  • Minimum Requirements: WordPress 6.x requires at least PHP 7.4, but PHP 8.x is recommended for performance and security.
  • Update Server: Contact your hosting provider if you need to upgrade PHP or MySQL versions.
  • Plugin Compatibility: Some plugins may also have PHP version requirements, so verify them.
  • Server Backups: Before changing PHP versions, backup your site and test in a staging environment.
  • Monitor Performance: After upgrading PHP, monitor your site for errors or incompatibilities.
  • Use Compatible Themes and Plugins: Make sure your theme and plugins support the PHP version.

3. Review Plugin and Theme Compatibility

  • Why: Plugins and themes are often the main source of update-related issues.
  • How: Visit plugin and theme developer sites or WordPress.org pages for compatibility notes.
  • Update Plugins and Themes: Always update plugins and themes before updating WordPress core.
  • Deactivate Unused Plugins: Remove or deactivate plugins you no longer use to reduce conflict risks.
  • Look for Deprecated Plugins: Replace plugins not updated in years with modern alternatives.
  • Test in Staging: Use a staging environment to test your plugins/themes with the new WordPress version.
  • Contact Developers: Reach out to plugin/theme support if you encounter issues.
  • Regular Maintenance: Keep plugins and themes updated even between WordPress core updates.

4. Disable Caching and Security Plugins Temporarily

  • Why: Some caching or security plugins may interfere with the update process.
  • How: Deactivate plugins like WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache, or Wordfence during the update.
  • Remember to Reactivate: Don’t forget to reactivate these plugins after the update is complete.
  • Clear Cache: Once reactivated, clear all caches to avoid serving stale content.
  • Monitor Site: Check if any plugin conflicts occur after reactivation.
  • Backup: Backups before deactivation ensure no data loss if an issue arises.
  • Use Staging: This process can be tested first in a staging environment.
  • Note Plugin Settings: Document your plugin settings in case you need to restore.

5. Put Your Site into Maintenance Mode

  • Why: Prevents visitors from encountering incomplete pages or errors during the update.
  • How: Use plugins like “WP Maintenance Mode” or “SeedProd” to display a friendly notice.
  • Custom Message: Inform visitors of ongoing maintenance and expected downtime.
  • Schedule Updates: If possible, schedule updates during off-peak hours to minimize visitor impact.
  • Disable After Update: Remove maintenance mode immediately after successful update.
  • Monitor Visitor Stats: Observe visitor behavior during maintenance for improvements.
  • Test Access: Confirm that admins can access the backend during maintenance.
  • Backup First: Activate maintenance mode after creating your backup.

6. Set Up a Staging Environment

  • Why: Testing updates on a clone prevents live site disruptions.
  • How: Many hosts offer one-click staging or use plugins like WP Staging.
  • Test Updates: Apply updates on staging first to detect problems.
  • Test Features: Test all site functionalities including forms, shopping carts, and custom code.
  • Rollback Capability: Easily discard changes if something breaks.
  • Team Collaboration: Share staging links with team members or clients for feedback.
  • Sync Changes: Once tested, push changes to live site.
  • Maintain Staging: Keep your staging site updated to mirror the live environment.

The Safe Update Process: How to Update WordPress Safely Step-by-Step

Once your site is prepped, follow these steps to safely update WordPress:

1. Login to WordPress Admin Dashboard

  • Access your WordPress admin using a secure administrator account.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable to avoid interruptions.
  • Clear browser cache to avoid outdated admin interface loading.
  • Check if any automatic update notifications are present.
  • Consider using incognito/private browsing mode for the update.
  • Close other active browser tabs to reduce distractions.
  • Avoid performing other heavy tasks on your computer during the update.
  • Keep admin credentials confidential and secure.

2. Navigate to the Updates Page

  • Go to Dashboard > Updates.
  • This page shows available updates for WordPress core, themes, and plugins.
  • Review update notes and details if provided.
  • Note if there are any security update labels to prioritize.
  • Scroll through the list to identify optional updates.
  • Check for any known conflicts or compatibility warnings.
  • Prepare to update plugins and themes before the WordPress core.
  • Consider updating smaller updates first for easier troubleshooting.

3. Backup One Last Time

  • Even if you backed up earlier, perform a fresh backup now.
  • Use your preferred backup plugin or hosting backup tool.
  • Store this backup in a secure, remote location.
  • Verify the backup was successful before proceeding.
  • Include both files and database in the backup.
  • Label backups with the date and update version for tracking.
  • Avoid starting the update until backup confirmation.
  • Notify your team or stakeholders that the backup is complete.

4. Update Plugins and Themes First

  • Select all available plugin and theme updates.
  • Click the “Update” button to start.
  • Monitor the update process for errors.
  • Deactivate plugins that are known to cause conflicts if necessary.
  • After updates, clear all caches.
  • Test key functionalities after plugin/theme updates.
  • Check developer changelogs for major updates that might affect compatibility.
  • Avoid updating too many plugins at once; update in small batches if preferred.

5. Update the WordPress Core

  • Click the “Update Now” button under WordPress core updates.
  • Remain on the page until the update process finishes.
  • Avoid refreshing or closing the browser window during the update.
  • The update process replaces core files and updates the database.
  • If database update is required, confirm the prompt to run it.
  • Clear all caches once the update finishes.
  • Verify the WordPress version in Dashboard > Updates post-update.
  • In case of failure, restore backup and troubleshoot.

6. Reactivate Any Disabled Plugins

  • Re-enable caching, security, and maintenance plugins.
  • Clear plugin-specific caches after activation.
  • Review plugin settings to ensure nothing changed.
  • Monitor plugin logs for errors or warnings.
  • Test site speed and functionality after reactivation.
  • Keep security plugins updated to maintain site protection.
  • Check user permissions if plugin reactivation affects access.
  • Disable any newly problematic plugins immediately.

7. Verify Site Frontend and Backend Functionality

  • Open your site in a new tab or browser.
  • Test homepage, blog posts, forms, and interactive elements.
  • Check the WordPress admin dashboard for errors or missing options.
  • Review site responsiveness on mobile and tablet devices.
  • Confirm SSL certificates are intact and working.
  • Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to monitor performance.
  • Scan your site with security plugins to check vulnerabilities.
  • Document any issues and resolve promptly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Updating WordPress

Knowing how to update WordPress safely also means preparing for possible hiccups:

1. White Screen of Death (WSOD)

  • Caused by PHP errors or conflicts.
  • Access via FTP or hosting file manager.
  • Disable plugins by renaming the plugins folder.
  • Switch to default theme like Twenty Twenty-Three.
  • Clear cache and retry.
  • Check error logs for clues.
  • Restore backup if needed.
  • Contact hosting support if unresolved.

2. Plugin or Theme Conflicts

  • Identify problematic plugin by deactivating one by one.
  • Reinstall or update conflicting plugin.
  • Contact plugin/theme support.
  • Check for alternative plugins.
  • Use staging for future updates.
  • Avoid incompatible plugins.
  • Keep plugins minimal.
  • Maintain updated documentation.

3. Database Connection Errors

  • Check wp-config.php credentials.
  • Repair database via phpMyAdmin or WordPress CLI.
  • Contact hosting provider.
  • Ensure database server is running.
  • Optimize database regularly.
  • Backup before repair.
  • Avoid large or corrupted databases.
  • Use trusted hosting services.

4. Update Fails or Hangs

  • Check internet stability.
  • Increase PHP memory limit.
  • Try manual update via FTP.
  • Disable security plugins during update.
  • Verify file permissions.
  • Restart update process.
  • Use hosting support tools.
  • Regularly monitor site health.

Best Practices for Ongoing WordPress Maintenance and Updates

Beyond how to update WordPress safely, keep your site healthy with these habits:

  • Enable auto-updates for minor WordPress releases.
  • Update plugins and themes promptly.
  • Schedule monthly maintenance checks.
  • Regularly clean unused plugins and themes.
  • Monitor site uptime with tools like UptimeRobot.
  • Use SSL and keep it renewed.
  • Use a reliable CDN for speed and security.
  • Train team members on update best practices.
  • Use managed WordPress hosting for expert support.
  • Document every update process for audits.

FAQs on How to Update WordPress Safely

Q1. How often should I update WordPress?
Update immediately when security patches are released; otherwise, monthly or bi-weekly updates keep your site secure and performant.

Q2. Can I skip WordPress updates if my site works fine?
No. Skipping updates exposes your site to security risks and potential compatibility issues.

Q3. Are automatic updates safe?
Minor auto-updates are safe and recommended. Major updates benefit from manual testing and staging.

Q4. What if my hosting doesn’t support backups?
Use dedicated backup plugins or switch to hosts offering backup features.

Q5. Should I update WordPress plugins before or after core updates?
Update plugins and themes before WordPress core to minimize conflicts.

Q6. Can I update WordPress on my phone?
Technically yes, but it’s recommended to use a desktop for better control and backup management.

Q7. What is the safest way to update WordPress manually?
Download the latest WordPress package, overwrite files via FTP except wp-content, and run the database upgrade script.

Q8. How do I know if an update caused issues?
Monitor error logs, site speed, and functionality immediately after updating.

Conclusion: Empower Yourself to Update WordPress Safely and Confidently

Mastering how to update WordPress safely is essential for website owners who want to secure their online presence and provide excellent user experiences. By preparing thoroughly, backing up, testing, and following the step-by-step guide, you minimize risks and maximize the benefits of WordPress updates. Don’t wait for a crisis—start updating your WordPress site safely today.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with your network or leave your questions below. Together, let’s build a safer, faster, and more reliable web.