Keeping WordPress core, plugins and themes up to date is essential for security — but updates applied without a backup or testing plan are one of the most common causes of broken sites. This 7-step checklist covers the best practices for WordPress updates so you can stay current without the risk.
⚠️ Never run bulk plugin updates or a major WordPress core update on a live site without a current backup. One incompatible plugin can bring the whole site down instantly.
Before any update, trigger a full backup — database and all files. If you have UpdraftPlus, Jetpack Backup or All-in-One WP Migration installed, run a manual backup now. If you're on managed hosting (WP Engine, Kinsta, SiteGround), use their one-click snapshot. A current, restorable backup is the only true safety net if an update causes a critical problem. See our guide on WordPress backup frequency and strategy.
Before clicking update, click the "View version X.X details" link beside each item. Read the changelog carefully — look for phrases like "breaking change", "requires WordPress X.X+" or "requires PHP X.X+". A two-minute changelog check can prevent hours of troubleshooting. Pay extra attention to major version bumps (e.g. 3.x to 4.x) — these carry the most risk.
A staging environment is a private copy of your site where updates can be safely tested before going to live. Many managed hosts offer one-click staging — WP Engine, Kinsta and SiteGround all have this built in. If your host doesn't, use the WP Staging plugin to create a subdomain staging site. For WooCommerce stores and membership sites, staging before live updates is non-negotiable.
Avoid bulk-updating all plugins at once on a live site. Instead update 2–3 at a time, then check your homepage, admin dashboard and any business-critical pages between each batch. This way, if something breaks, you know exactly which plugin caused it without having to deactivate everything. For WooCommerce-heavy sites, update payment gateway and WooCommerce plugins last and test checkout after each one.
Update your active theme — but first confirm you're using a child theme for any customisations. Direct edits to parent theme files are wiped on every theme update. After updating, visually check your homepage, header, footer, and any page that uses theme-specific layouts. Elementor or page builder content is usually safe from theme updates, but always verify.
Apply core updates after plugins and themes have been confirmed working. For minor security releases (e.g. 6.5.1 → 6.5.2), update immediately — these are vetted patches with minimal compatibility risk. For major releases (e.g. 6.5 → 6.6), wait 1–2 weeks for the community to surface any plugin compatibility issues, then test on staging before going live. Enable automatic minor core updates in Settings → General for hands-off security coverage.
After all updates, test the following in a private/incognito browser window (to bypass your own cache): homepage loading correctly, all navigation links, contact form submission, WooCommerce checkout (add to cart → payment page), admin dashboard, and mobile layout. Then clear your caching plugin, CDN and hosting cache so visitors see the updated site immediately.
✅ Update complete. Purge cache in your caching plugin settings (WP Rocket, LiteSpeed Cache or W3 Total Cache), then check your site live in a private browser window one final time.
wp-content/debug.log for the exact PHP error to pinpoint the causeWordPress 5.5+ supports automatic plugin, theme and core updates. Here's the practical guide:
What are the best practices for WordPress updates?
Always back up before updating. Check changelogs for breaking changes. Test on staging for complex sites. Update plugins in batches of 2–3, not all at once. Update WordPress core last. Test all key site functions after updates and clear your cache when done.
How often should I update WordPress plugins?
At minimum weekly. Set a recurring calendar reminder every Monday. Security vulnerability patches should be applied the same day they're released — leaving plugins 2–3 weeks out of date significantly increases your exposure to known exploits.
Is it safe to update WordPress core right away?
For minor security releases, yes — apply immediately. For major feature releases, wait 1–2 weeks to let the community surface any major plugin compatibility issues, then test on staging before applying to your live site.
Can I undo a WordPress update?
Not directly through the dashboard. Your options are: restore a backup (easiest and fastest), or manually revert by uploading older plugin/theme files via FTP/SFTP. This is exactly why taking a backup before every update is non-negotiable.
Do WordPress updates affect my content?
No — WordPress updates don't delete posts, pages, images or settings. However, plugin updates can occasionally alter settings or break custom functionality. Theme updates can overwrite customisations made directly to theme files (always use a child theme to prevent this).
WPFixMate manages plugin, theme and core updates with backups, staging tests and a written report after every update run.
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