WordPress must be updated for security, functionality, and plugin/theme compatibility. Not everyone likes updating via FTP. Luckily, WordPress updates without FTP. Here are the primary methods to upgrade WordPress from your dashboard.
Steps to Update WordPress Without FTP
1. Log In to Your WordPress Dashboard
Start by logging into your WordPress dashboard. You can do this by going to yourwebsite.com/wp-admin
and entering your username and password.
2. Navigate to the Updates Page
Once logged in, go to the left-hand menu and click on Dashboard. From the drop-down menu, select Updates. This will take you to the WordPress Updates page.
3. Check for Available Updates
On the WordPress Updates page, you will see if any updates are available for your WordPress core, themes, or plugins. If a new version of WordPress is available, you will see a message saying, “An updated version of WordPress is available.”
4. Click the Update Button
To update WordPress without FTP, click the Update Now button. WordPress will start the update process automatically. This may take a few minutes, so be patient.
5. Let WordPress Do Its Thing
WordPress will download the latest version during the update, replace the necessary files, and perform any required database updates. You will see a progress screen informing you about what is happening.
6. Update Themes and Plugins
After updating WordPress, it’s a good idea to update your themes and plugins as well. Go back to the Updates page and scroll down to see if any updates are available for your themes or plugins. Select the ones you want to update and click Update Plugins or Update Themes.
7. Verify the Update
Once everything is updated, visit your website to ensure it functions correctly. Check the main pages and any critical features to confirm everything is working as expected.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Backup Issues: Always back up your site before updating. You can restore your site to its previous state if something goes wrong.
- Stuck Update: Refresh the page or clear your browser cache if the update process gets stuck.
- Plugin Conflicts: If you experience issues after updating, deactivate all plugins and reactivate them individually to identify any conflicts.
Conclusion
Updating WordPress without FTP is simple for all users. Following these simple steps lets you keep your WordPress site up-to-date and secure without needing FTP. Regularly check for updates and back up your site to ensure a smooth update process.