Introduction
Keeping WordPress updated is one of the most important maintenance tasks for any website.
WordPress updates often include:
- Security improvements
- Bug fixes
- Performance enhancements
- New features
- Compatibility updates
This guide explains how to update WordPress using the WordPress Dashboard.
Step 1 – Log Into WordPress
Open your browser and visit: https://yourdomain.co.za/wp-admin
(Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your WordPress username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Create a Backup
Before updating WordPress, it is strongly recommended that you create a backup of your website.
A backup allows you to restore your website if a problem occurs during the update process.
If your hosting account includes WordPress Manager, consider creating a backup before proceeding.
Step 3 – Check for Updates
From the WordPress Dashboard
Click: Dashboard
Then click: Updates
WordPress will display information about available updates.
Step 4 – Review the Available Updates
You may see updates for:
- WordPress Core
- Plugins
- Themes
Review the available updates before proceeding.
Step 5 – Update WordPress Core
Locate: WordPress
If an update is available:
Click: Update to Version x.x.x
(The version number will vary.)
WordPress will download and install the update automatically.
Step 6 – Wait for the Update to Complete
Do not close your browser while the update is in progress.
The update process may take several minutes depending on the size of the update and server performance.
Step 7 – Verify the Update
Once complete, WordPress will display a success message.
Review:
- Website functionality
- Pages
- Forms
- Menus
- Plugins
Ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Updating Plugins
From the WordPress Dashboard
Click: Dashboard
Then click: Updates
Locate: Plugins
Select the plugins you wish to update.
Click: Update Plugins
Updating Themes
From the WordPress Dashboard
Click: Dashboard
Then click: Updates
Locate: Themes
Select the themes you wish to update.
Click: Update Themes
Common Update Problems
Website Looks Different After Updating
Some updates may affect theme layouts or plugin functionality.
Clear your website cache and browser cache before troubleshooting further.
Plugin Stops Working
The plugin may not be compatible with the latest version of WordPress.
Check with the plugin developer for compatibility information.
White Screen or Error Messages
If an update causes problems:
- Restore a backup.
- Disable recently updated plugins.
- Contact your website developer or support provider for assistance.
Best Practices
When updating WordPress:
- Create a backup first.
- Update regularly.
- Remove unused plugins and themes.
- Test your website after updates.
- Keep plugins and themes updated.
Regular updates help improve security and stability.
Conclusion
Keeping WordPress updated helps protect your website against security vulnerabilities and ensures compatibility with modern plugins and themes.
Regular maintenance is one of the most effective ways to keep your website secure and operating reliably.
