How to update WordPress

When a major new version of WordPress comes out it’s a good idea to take a bit of extra care with the update. Here’s how.

Version 2.9 of WordPress was released the other day. [And not long after that, version 2.9.1.] Here’s how to update your WordPress website.

Clean up the database:
- Go to the Edit Comments section of your blog’s Dashboard and mark any spam comments as spam.
- Check the list of Spam comments for any that are in fact genuine and retrieve them.
- Delete the spam comments so they’re not clogging up the database.
- If you use anti-spam plugins such as Spam Karma clean out any accumulated logs.
Back up the database, uploads, theme, config, and other files. ¹
Check for updates to the theme you use, and install as required.
Use the auto-update function to check for updates to plugins you use and apply as required.
Use the auto-update function to update the WordPress files.
Visit your blog’s Dashboard again. If you see a notice about upgrading the database, follow the on-screen instructions. Recent versions of the upgrade handle this step for you.
View your blog as a visitor would see it. Check for problems and unpleasant surprises. If something seems weird start your troubleshooting by disabling plugins.

¹ For full instructions on How to backup your WordPress website see KnowIt Books.

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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Mechanic Christchurch 2 February 2010 at 20:29 52: Hi Miraz! I’m new to blogging and I was wondering how to upgrade WP. Good thing I found this step by step instruction. Was a big help!
2 Miraz 3 February 2010 at 06:02 31: Thanks mechanic. I’m glad it was useful to you.

Cheers,

Miraz