How to Upgrade WordPress Site

Why You Should Update WordPress?

• Security: Updates often fix bugs and patch security issues.
• New Features: Each WordPress update brings improvements and tools.
• Better Performance: Faster and smoother website operation.
• Compatibility: Updated WordPress works better with plugins and themes.

Steps to Update WordPress Site

Step 1: Take a Full Backup

Before you update your WordPress site, always create a backup of:

• Website files
• WordPress database

You can use backup plugins or download files via FTP. This way, if something goes wrong, you can restore your site quickly.

Step 2: Download the Latest WordPress Package

• Go to the official WordPress site: https://wordpress.org/download/
• Download the latest version of WordPress.
  
  This is the package you’ll use to update WordPress manually.

Step 3: Upload the New Files

3.1 Delete Old Folders

Using FTP (or RDP access), delete the following folders from your server:

• wp-admin
• wp-includes
  
  

3.2 Replace Files

• Upload the new WordPress files you downloaded.
• Do not delete or replace the wp-content folder. This folder contains your themes, plugins, and uploads.
• Replace all other files in your WordPress root directory.

Step 4: Update WordPress Database

• Visit your website after uploading.
• WordPress will ask you to update the database (if needed).
• Click Continue to finish the upgrade.
  
  

Conclusion

Learning how to update a website in WordPress may seem technical at first, but once you know the steps, it’s simple. Always remember:

1. Take a backup
2. Download the update
3. Upload and replace files safely
4. Update the database

By following these steps, you can update your WordPress site anytime without relying on auto-updates. This ensures better control, security, and stability for your website.