11 Precautions to Follow While Updating Your WordPress Software, Theme, or Plugins

It’s crucial to update your WordPress website regularly. However, updating the plugins, themes, or core software of your WordPress website can sometimes lead to unexpected issues if not done with care. 

In this blog post, we will discuss 11 precautions to consider when updating WordPress plugins, themes, and software to ensure a smooth and trouble-free process.

#1 Backup Your Website

Prior to initiating any updates, it is imperative to adhere to the first essential guideline: generate a comprehensive backup of your website. This backup serves as a protective measure in the event that any issues arise during the update procedure. The creation of backups can be effortlessly accomplished by utilizing WordPress backup plugins or by leveraging your hosting provider’s backup services.

#2 Check Compatibility

Not all plugins, themes, or software updates are compatible with your current WordPress version or with each other. Be sure to consistently verify compatibility details either in the update notes or on the official webpage of the plugin or theme. If there are any alerts or indications of potential incompatibility, it is advisable to delay the update until these issues have been addressed and resolved. If required, consult a WordPress developer.

#3 Review Changelogs

Changelogs provide insights into what has changed in the new version of a plugin or theme. Reading the changelogs of plugins or themes provides valuable insights into the intent behind the update, encompassing bug fixes, security enhancements, and the introduction of new features. This information proves instrumental in gauging both the necessity and potential ramifications of implementing the update.

#4 Test Updates on a Staging Site

Testing updates on a staging site is a best practice that can help you identify any compatibility issues or conflicts before they affect your live website. Staging sites allow you to replicate your website environment for testing purposes, ensuring a smooth transition to the updated versions.

#5 Keep Your Site Offline During Updates

During the actual update process, consider temporarily taking your site offline or activating a maintenance mode plugin. This prevents visitors from encountering broken or partially updated pages and maintains a professional appearance while you work on your site behind the scenes.

#6 Update Regularly

Frequent updates are essential for WordPress security. Outdated plugins, themes, and core software are more susceptible to security vulnerabilities. As soon as any update becomes available for your theme or plugin, make sure to implement it. If you don’t have time to do that, consider hiring a WordPress developer who can maintain your website regularly.

#7 Monitor Your Site After Updates

After applying updates, thoroughly monitor your website to ensure that everything is functioning as expected. Pay attention to page load times, functionality, and overall user experience. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to maintain a seamless user experience. When required, don’t refrain from hiring a web developer to fix post-update issues on your website.

#8 Keep a Record of Changes

Maintain a detailed record of the updates you’ve applied, including the date and any issues you encountered. This documentation can be valuable for troubleshooting purposes or rolling back updates if necessary.

#9 Update One at a Time

If you’re updating multiple plugins or themes, consider updating them one at a time. This approach allows you to identify which update might be causing issues if problems arise. Updating everything simultaneously can make it challenging to pinpoint the root cause of any problems.

#10 Verify Plugin and Theme Sources

Only download plugins and themes from reputable sources, such as the official WordPress repository or trusted theme and plugin marketplaces. Avoid using pirated or nulled versions of premium themes and plugins, as they can pose security risks and lack support and updates.

#11 Consider a Staging/Production Workflow

For larger websites or those with critical functions, implementing a staging/production workflow can be invaluable. This approach involves making updates on a staging site first, testing thoroughly, and then replicating the changes to the live site, minimizing the risk of disruptions to your online presence.