Updating WordPress and plugins safely

Keeping WordPress, your theme and plugins up to date is the single most important thing for your site's security. This order keeps the risk low.

Before updating

• Back up your files and database (from the Backup section in cPanel or DirectAdmin, or with a backup plugin).
• If you run a store, pick a quiet time.

Suggested order

1. Update plugins first, one at a time, opening the site after each.
2. Then update the theme.
3. Finally update WordPress itself.

If the site breaks

• Deactivate the last plugin you updated; if you cannot reach the dashboard, rename its folder in wp-content/plugins with your hosting's file manager.
• If that does not help, restore the backup and contact support.