Upgrading WordPress

By default, WordPress now updates automatically, but you may periodically want to update manually.

Before getting underway, make sure you have a recent WordPress backup. Once you've got that, let's commence!

WordPress Core Updates

The WordPress core is the main WordPress software, updating it is generally a safe process. As always, backup before doing so.

Performing a WordPress Core upgrade

1. Login to your WordPress administrative panel.
2. In the upper-left section of the screen, you'll see Updates with a number next to it. Select Updates.
3. You'll see a list of updates available, including the core, plugins & themes.
4. To upgrade the WordPress core, select Update now.

The process will generally take 15 seconds, during which a maintenance page will be displayed to your visitors.

You should absolutely consider enabling automatic updates if you haven't:

Enabling Automatic Updates in WordPress

Configure both themes/plugins to update automatically

Enabling Updates Through WordPress Dashboard

For Plugins

1. Navigate to Plugins: Go to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard.

2. Enable Auto-Updates: Look for a column labeled 'Automatic Updates'. Click 'Enable auto-updates' for each plugin you wish to update automatically.

For Themes

1. Access Themes Page: Head to 'Appearance' > 'Themes' in your WordPress dashboard.

2. Activate Auto-Updates: Click on a theme thumbnail, then in the Theme Details window, find and click 'Enable auto-updates'.

Enabling Updates via wp-config.php

Editing wp-config.php

1. Access the File: Use an FTP client or your hosting control panel to access your wp-config.php file.

2. Modify wp-config.php: Add the following lines:

// Enable all plugin updates:
add_filter( 'auto_update_plugin', '__return_true' );

// Enable all theme updates:
add_filter( 'auto_update_theme', '__return_true' );