How to update WordPress

08 January 2010 · 2 comments

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Back up the database, uploads, theme, config, and other files. 1
  3. Check for updates to the theme you use, and install as required.
  4. Use the auto-update function to check for updates to plugins you use and apply as required.
  5. Use the auto-update function to update the WordPress files.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

2 comments

Tagged as: updates, upgrade, WordPress

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Note: there may be a delay before your comment appears. I now approve all comments from new visitors, in an attempt to keep spam at bay.

Mechanic Christchurch 02 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!

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Miraz 03 February 2010 at 06:02 31

Thanks mechanic. I’m glad it was useful to you.

Cheers,

Miraz

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