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How to Update WordPress to the Latest Version Manually (No Data Loss)

Mike0

 

Table of Contents

Introduction

Keeping your WordPress site updated is important for security and performance. WordPress releases regular updates to fix bugs and improve features. However, many users worry about losing their content when updating.

In this guide, we will show you how to update WordPress manually without losing any data. By following the right steps, you can update your site safely.

Updating WordPress manually gives you full control over the process. This way, you can avoid problems that may occur with automatic updates. Some users prefer this method to ensure that nothing breaks on their site.

If you’re asking can I manually update WordPress, the answer is yes. We’ll explain how to update WordPress to the latest version manually without any issues.

We’ll also cover how to update WordPress without auto update. Manual updates give you more flexibility and control. You can prevent compatibility problems with plugins and themes by updating at your own pace.

This guide will ensure that you update WordPress safely without losing content. Follow the steps carefully, and your site will be up-to-date without any risk.

Why Should You Update WordPress Manually?

Updating WordPress manually offers several benefits. While automatic updates are convenient, they may not always be the best option. Manual updates give you more control over the process, ensuring that everything goes smoothly.

  1. Full Control Over the Update Process

With manual updates, you are in charge. You can decide when to update and which files to update. This helps prevent unexpected issues, such as plugin conflicts or theme incompatibilities. It’s especially useful if you have a heavily customized site.

  1. Avoid Auto Update Issues

WordPress automatically updates minor versions, but sometimes auto updates can cause problems. For instance, updates might break a custom feature or affect a plugin you rely on. By updating manually, you can review the changes first and ensure compatibility.

  1. Prevent Data Loss

When updating WordPress manually, you have the chance to backup your site first. This helps protect your content from being lost during the update. Automatic updates don’t always allow this, making manual updates a safer option for your site’s data.

  1. Keep Site Customizations Intact

Manual updates ensure your customizations remain untouched. If you’ve made changes to your theme or added custom code, manual updates let you control what gets updated. You can avoid overwriting custom settings, keeping everything as you’ve designed it.

  1. Better Compatibility with Plugins and Themes

Updating WordPress manually allows you to check plugin and theme compatibility. You can verify that everything works smoothly with the new version of WordPress. This step is crucial for sites with multiple plugins or custom themes.

Before Updating WordPress Manually Precautions

Before you update WordPress to the latest version manually, there are a few important precautions to take. These steps will ensure the update goes smoothly without any issues.

  1. Backup Your Website

The most important step before updating is backing up your website. This includes backing up both the files and the database. In case anything goes wrong during the update, you can easily restore your site to its previous state.

  • Backup files: Use an FTP client to download your site’s files.
  • Backup database: Use phpMyAdmin or a plugin like UpdraftPlus to back up your database.

A complete backup ensures that you don’t lose any content, even if something goes wrong.

  1. Check Plugin and Theme Compatibility

Some plugins and themes may not be compatible with the latest WordPress version. Before proceeding with the update, check that all your plugins and themes are compatible.

  • Visit plugin/theme developer websites to check for compatibility.
  • Update plugins and themes to their latest versions before updating WordPress.

This will help avoid any conflicts after updating WordPress manually.

  1. Deactivate Caching Plugins

Caching plugins improve your site’s performance by storing static files. However, they can cause issues during the update process. It’s best to deactivate any caching plugins before updating WordPress.

  • Go to your WordPress dashboard.
  • Navigate to the “Plugins” section and deactivate your caching plugin.

Once the update is complete, you can reactivate the caching plugins.

  1. Update Your PHP Version

Ensure that your server’s PHP version is up-to-date. WordPress works best with the latest PHP versions. Check your current PHP version and update it if needed.

  • You can check your PHP version under your hosting control panel.
  • Contact your hosting provider if you need assistance with updating PHP.

Using an outdated PHP version can cause compatibility issues with the latest WordPress updates.

  1. Disable WordPress Auto-Updates

If you prefer manual updates, make sure automatic updates are disabled. This way, WordPress won’t automatically install updates in the middle of your manual update process.

  • To disable auto-updates, add the following line to your wp-config.php file:

define(‘AUTOMATIC_UPDATER_DISABLED’, true);

This will stop WordPress from applying updates automatically while you update manually.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Update WordPress Manually

Now that you’ve taken the necessary precautions, it’s time to manually update WordPress. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth update process without any data loss.

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Step 1: Download the Latest Version of WordPress

The first step in the manual update process is to download the latest version of WordPress. You can find the latest WordPress files on the official WordPress website.

  • Go to WordPress.org.
  • Click the “Download” button to get the latest version.

Step 2: Deactivate All Plugins

Before making any updates, it’s a good idea to deactivate all active plugins. This will prevent any potential conflicts during the update process.

  • Go to your WordPress dashboard.
  • Navigate to the “Plugins” section and click “Deactivate” on all active plugins.

Deactivating plugins ensures that none of them interfere with the update.

Step 3: Clear Cache and Disable Caching

Clear your website’s cache to avoid any issues during the update. Disable any caching plugins you may be using.

  • Go to your caching plugin settings.
  • Deactivate the caching plugin temporarily.
  • Clear the cache if your plugin provides that option.

This step ensures that old, cached versions of your site don’t cause issues after the update.

Step 4: Use FTP to Access Your WordPress Files

Next, access your WordPress site via FTP to upload the new files. You’ll need an FTP client, such as FileZilla.

  • Connect to your website’s server using FTP.
  • Navigate to the folder where WordPress is installed (usually the root folder).

Using FTP allows you to replace the core WordPress files without affecting your content or customizations.

Step 5: Replace WordPress Core Files

Now that you have access to your WordPress files, it’s time to upload the new WordPress version. Replace the existing WordPress core files with the ones you just downloaded.

  • Select all files from the downloaded WordPress package, except the wp-content folder and the wp-config.php file.
  • Upload the files to your server, overwriting the existing files.

This process ensures that only the core files are updated, keeping your custom content intact.

Step 6: Update the Database

Once the core files are updated, WordPress may prompt you to update your database. This is an important step in ensuring your site works with the latest version of WordPress.

  • After uploading the files, visit your website’s admin page.
  • If needed, WordPress will ask you to update the database. Follow the instructions to complete this step.

Updating the database ensures that the latest WordPress features are fully integrated into your site.

Step 7: Reactivate Plugins

Once the update is complete, reactivate your plugins. This will restore the functionality of any features provided by plugins.

  • Go back to the “Plugins” section in your WordPress dashboard.
  • Click “Activate” on each of the plugins you deactivated earlier.

It’s important to check if all your plugins are working correctly after reactivation.

Common Issues During Manual Updates and How to Fix Them

Here are a few common issues you may face during a manual update:

  • File Permission Errors: If you encounter a “Permission Denied” error while uploading files via FTP, check file permissions. WordPress directories should be set to 755, and files should be set to 644.
  • Database Update Errors: If WordPress prompts you to update the database but it fails, check your database. You can use phpMyAdmin to repair it or contact your hosting provider for help.
  • Plugin Incompatibility: After updating, some plugins may not work. Ensure your plugins are compatible with the latest WordPress version. Update them or reach out to the plugin developer for support.

Best Practices for Updating WordPress Safely Without Losing Content

To avoid issues and keep your site in top shape, follow these best practices for manual WordPress update without data loss:

  • Always Backup Your Site: Before making any updates, back up your WordPress site. Use a plugin or manual backup methods to safeguard your files and database.
  • Test Updates on a Staging Site: Use a staging site to test updates before applying them to your live site. This will prevent potential issues from affecting your live content.
  • Update Plugins and Themes First: Always update your plugins and themes before updating WordPress. This ensures better compatibility with the latest WordPress version.
  • Monitor Your Site After the Update: After updating, thoroughly check your site. Test your content, plugins, and themes to ensure everything works as expected.
  • Disable Automatic Updates: If you prefer manual control, disable automatic updates. This will prevent WordPress from applying updates without your consent.

Conclusion

Updating WordPress manually gives you more control and ensures your site stays secure. By following the steps and precautions in this guide, you can safely update without risking data loss. Always back up your site, check plugin compatibility, and test updates on a staging site first.

If you need assistance with the update process or have any concerns, WooHelpDesk is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through each step and ensure a smooth update. Don’t hesitate to contact us for professional support and avoid any headaches during your WordPress update.

Website https://www.woohelpdesk.com/blog

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