Keeping WordPress themes and plugins updated helps protect your site and can prevent compatibility problems.
Before running updates, take a backup if possible. This is especially important for ecommerce sites, membership sites or websites with custom functionality.
To update themes and plugins:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Dashboard > Updates.
- Review the available updates.
- Update plugins first.
- Check the site.
- Update themes.
- Check the site again.
If you manage a busy or important website, consider testing updates on a staging copy first.
Avoid leaving abandoned themes or plugins installed. If you are not using a plugin or theme, remove it rather than just deactivating it.
If an update breaks the site, contact support and explain what was updated just before the problem started.