Plugins add functionality to your website, but they also need regular updates to stay secure and compatible with the latest WordPress version. Updating plugins the wrong way can lead to broken features or even site crashes. Here’s how to update your plugins safely while minimizing risks.
Why Plugin Updates Matter
Plugins have deep access to your website, which means outdated or poorly maintained plugins can be security vulnerabilities. Updates fix bugs, patch security issues, and ensure compatibility with WordPress and other plugins. Ignoring updates can lead to broken features, slow performance, or even a hacked site.
How to Update Plugins Safely
Step 1: Back Up Your Website
Before updating, create a full backup of your website using a plugin like UpdraftPlus. This way, if an update causes issues, you can quickly restore your site.
Step 2: Update Plugins One at a Time
Updating all plugins at once might be tempting, but if something breaks, it’ll be harder to pinpoint the issue. Instead, update plugins individually and check your site after each update.
Step 3: Check for Plugin Conflicts
Some plugins may not work well together after an update. After updating, visit your website and test key features like contact forms, navigation menus, and checkout processes to ensure everything still works.
Step 4: Delete Unused or Inactive Plugins
Inactive plugins take up space and can still pose security risks. If you’re not using a plugin, remove it entirely. Keeping only essential, well-maintained plugins helps keep your site fast and secure.
Best Practices for Managing Plugins
- Keep plugins to a minimum – More plugins mean more potential security risks and slower performance. Only install what’s necessary.
- Use well-supported plugins – Check reviews and update history before installing a plugin. If a plugin hasn’t been updated in over a year, it may not be actively maintained.
- Enable automatic updates for trusted plugins – Some plugins allow auto-updates, which can save time. However, for critical plugins, it’s best to update manually after testing.
What’s Next?
Regularly updating plugins is a key part of website maintenance, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. A Website Diagnostic Review can help you identify security risks, outdated settings, and other issues that might be affecting your site’s performance. Learn more about how a full website review can keep your site secure and optimized here.
