WordPress updates are crucial for keeping your site secure and running smoothly. However, there’s always a risk that an update could disrupt your website’s functionality.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it. Without further ado, here’s a simple guide on how to prevent a WordPress update from breaking your website. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of new features and security improvements without the stress.
Backup Your Website Regularly
The first and most important step is to back up your website regularly. This includes both your files and your database. By doing this, you create a safety net.
If an update causes problems, you can restore your site to its previous state. Many WordPress plugins, like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy, make it easy to schedule and manage backups.
Ensure that backups are stored in a secure location, like cloud storage, so you can access them if needed.
Use a Staging Site
Before applying updates to your live site, test them on a staging site. A staging site is a duplicate of your live website where you can test changes without affecting the real site. Many hosting providers offer staging environments, or you can use plugins like WP Staging to create one.
Testing updates in this environment helps identify potential issues without risking your live site.
Update Plugins and Themes First
It’s a good practice to update plugins and themes before updating WordPress itself. Plugin and theme updates often include compatibility improvements for the latest version of WordPress. By updating these first, you reduce the chance of conflicts that could occur when you update WordPress.
Always check for updates and apply them one at a time, testing your site after each update to catch any issues early.
Check Compatibility
Before updating WordPress, check if your themes and plugins are compatible with the new version. The WordPress repository usually lists compatibility information for plugins and themes. If an update is major, review the changelog or support forums for any known issues.
If you find that your essential plugins or themes are not yet compatible, you might need to wait until they are updated or find alternatives.
Read Update Notes
WordPress updates come with release notes that detail the changes, improvements, and bug fixes. Reading these notes can give you a heads-up about any significant changes that might affect your site.
If the update includes major changes, it’s worth doing a bit of research or consulting with a developer to understand how it might impact your site.
Deactivate Caching Plugins
Sometimes caching plugins can cause issues during updates. Before updating WordPress, deactivate your caching plugins. This prevents them from serving outdated or conflicting cached files during the update process.
After the update, clear the cache and reactivate the caching plugins to ensure your site runs smoothly.
Monitor Your Site Post-Update
After applying the update, closely monitor your website for any issues. Check all key functionalities, such as forms, shopping carts, and multimedia elements, to ensure they are working correctly.
Also, review your site’s performance and security settings to ensure everything is in order. If you notice any problems, you can quickly restore your site from the backup you created.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’re unsure about handling updates or if your site has customizations that could be affected, consider seeking professional help. A WordPress developer can assist with complex updates and ensure that your site remains functional and secure.
They can also provide guidance on best practices for maintaining your site.
By following these steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of a WordPress update breaking your website. Regular backups, testing updates in a staging environment, and staying informed about compatibility and release notes will help keep your site running smoothly and securely.
Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in maintaining a healthy and functional website.