Keeping your WordPress site updated is crucial for security, performance, and accessing new features. Outdated versions are vulnerable to hacks, which can lead to data loss, downtime, or SEO penalties from search engines. In 2026, WordPress releases frequent updates, including major versions with enhancements like better block editing and AI tools. At Cope Business, we emphasize timely updates during our technical SEO audit services to protect client sites and maintain optimal rankings. This guide shows you how to check your current version and update safely, with tips to avoid issues.
Whether you’re a beginner or managing multiple sites, regular updates keep your WordPress secure and efficient.
Why Update WordPress Regularly?
- Security Fixes: Patches vulnerabilities exploited by hackers.
- New Features: Access modern tools like full-site editing or improved accessibility.
- Performance Improvements: Faster loading and better compatibility.
- Bug Fixes: Resolves issues that could break your site.
- SEO Benefits: Updated sites perform better in search algorithms.
Neglecting updates risks breaches—over 90% of hacked WordPress sites are outdated.
How to Check Your Current WordPress Version
Before updating, confirm your version.
Method 1: From the Dashboard
- Log into wp-admin.
- Look at the footer: “Thank you for creating with WordPress” followed by the version number.
- Or go to Dashboard > Updates—it shows your current version and available updates.
Method 2: Via the Site Health Tool
- Navigate to Tools > Site Health.
- In the “Status” tab, check the WordPress section for your version.
Method 3: Manually in Files
Via FTP or hosting file manager, open wp-includes/version.php and find $wp_version.
If outdated, proceed to update immediately.
How to Update WordPress Safely
WordPress offers automatic and manual options—always backup first.
Step 1: Back Up Your Site
- Use plugins like UpdraftPlus for full backups (files + database).
- Store off-site (e.g., Google Drive).
- Test restores to ensure viability.
Automatic Updates (Recommended for Minor Releases)
- In Settings > General, enable auto-updates if available (WordPress 5.5+).
- For core: Add to wp-config.php:
define('WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE', 'minor');- Plugins/Themes: Enable in Plugins > Installed Plugins or via code.
Automatic keeps you secure without effort, but monitor for conflicts.
Manual Updates (For Major Releases)
- Go to Dashboard > Updates.
- Click “Update Now” if available.
- WordPress downloads, installs, and optimizes the database automatically.
If the button is missing, check for hosting restrictions or errors.
Troubleshooting Common Update Issues
- Update Fails Mid-Way: Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php: define(‘WP_MEMORY_LIMIT’, ‘256M’);.
- Maintenance Mode Stuck: Delete the .maintenance file via FTP.
- White Screen After Update: Deactivate plugins via FTP (rename plugins folder).
- Database Errors: Repair via wp-admin (add define(‘WP_ALLOW_REPAIR’, true); to wp-config.php).
- Compatibility Problems: Test updates on a staging site first.
If issues persist, roll back using your backup or plugins like WP Rollback.
Best Practices After Updating
- Clear cache (browser and site-level).
- Test key features (forms, plugins, themes).
- Check for broken links or layout issues.
- Monitor performance with tools like GTmetrix.
- Update PHP version if needed for compatibility.
For optimal post-update performance, consider our WordPress speed optimization services.
FAQs on WordPress Updates
Check weekly; enable auto-minor updates for security.
Rollback with backups; test on staging first.
For minor/core: Yes. Plugins/themes: Test if critical.
Keeping WordPress updated is a simple yet powerful way to maintain security and performance.
Need help with updates, audits, or resolving issues? Contact Cope Business for a free technical SEO consultation—we’ll ensure your site stays current and optimized.
