WordPress is one of the most widely used content management systems (CMS) due to its flexibility and ease of use. Keeping your WordPress site up to date is crucial for functionality and security. While many users prefer using the automatic update message, there are times when a manual update is necessary. This guide will walk you through the manual update process to ensure your site runs the latest version without encountering issues like loose files, corrupted files, or broken features.

Why Manual Updates Matter

WordPress frequently releases major releases, minor releases, and security updates. Major releases include significant changes, while minor core releases usually focus on bug fixes and security patches. If you ignore these updates, your site might face performance issues or fall prey to security vulnerabilities.

While the one-click updates feature makes updating easier, some situations require a manual update process, such as fixing the update database error loop or ensuring that plugin files and theme files remain functional after the update.

Step-by-Step Guide to Manually Update WordPress

Step 1: Create a Complete Backup

Before starting the update, ensure you have a complete website backup, including your WordPress folder, database, and other important files like the wp-config.php file. Use backup plugins or your hosting’s backup service to store a secure copy.

Step 1: Connect to your website using an SFTP client.
Step 2: Download your wp-content folder, database files, and any custom code snippets you have added. Ensure the backup includes your previous version and custom CSS to restore your site if something goes wrong.

Note: Store backups in the Dotsden cloud Platform for security.

Step 2: Download the Latest WordPress Version

Head over to the official WordPress website and download the latest release.

Step 1: Extract the zip file on your local machine.
Step 2: Within the extracted folder, you’ll find key components like wp-admin, wp-includes, and core distribution files. These are the files that need to be replaced on your server, but be sure not to overwrite the wp-content folder, as it contains your themes, plugins, and media.

(Refer to image #1 for instructions on downloading and extracting the WordPress core distribution version.)

Step 3: Deactivate Plugins

Before uploading any new files, deactivate your plugins. This will prevent plugin file conflicts during the update.

Step 1: Log in to your WP-Admin Dashboard.
Step 2: Navigate to the “Plugins” section and deactivate all of them.
Step 3: Check the plugin folder in your Downloads folder for any outdated plugins that may need updating before you reactivate them.

Step 4: Upload the New WordPress Files

Use an FTP client to upload the new WordPress core files to your root directory.

Step 1: Connect to your server using the connection credentials provided by your hosting provider.
Step 2: Navigate to the wp-admin directory and upload the new wp-admin and wp-includes folders. Do not overwrite your wp-content folder.

Upload all core operating files, except the wp-config-sample.php file, which is a default template. Ensure the folder contents of your wp-admin and wp-includes directories match the new files.

(Refer to image #2 for the correct upload procedure.)

Step 5: Update the Database

After the files are uploaded, you may be prompted to update your database. This is especially necessary when there’s a change in the database version due to major updates or minor core releases.

Step 1: Open your browser and go to www.yoursite.com/wp-admin.
Step 2: If required, follow the onscreen instructions to complete the database upgrade.

(Refer to image #3 for updated database script instructions.)

Step 6: Reactivate Plugins and Themes

Once the update process is complete, reactivate your plugins and themes.

Step 1: Navigate to your admin dashboard and reactivate your plugins one by one.
Step 2: Ensure each plugin has been updated to avoid any compatibility issues. You should also consider updating your default themes, child themes, and classic themes to match the current WordPress version.

Tip: If you notice an error message after activating a plugin, deactivate it and contact the plugin developers for clarification.

(Refer to image #4 for reactivating plugins and themes.)

Step 7: Clear Your Cache

To ensure the updated site displays correctly, clear your browser cache and any caching plugins you may have installed. This will prevent old files from being loaded.

Step 1: Go to your browser window settings and clear the cache.
Step 2: You may also need to clear the cache from within your WordPress file manager plugin if it exists.

Step 8: Verify Your WordPress Site

After completing the update, visit your site to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Check key areas like your dashboard for messages, theme update options, and overall user experience. Ensure that you see a success message after completing the process.

Troubleshooting Issues After a Manual Update

Permissions Issues

If you experience a permissions issue while uploading files, make sure the file permissions are set correctly. Check your config file, core directories, and root folder for improper file permissions. Adjust them using your cPanel File Manager.

Database Update Error Loop

In rare cases, you may encounter the dreaded update database error where the database upgrade fails repeatedly. To resolve this, try using the command-line interface to manually trigger the database update or consult the core distribution version of WordPress to resolve the issue.

Plugin and Theme Issues

Outdated plugins or themes can cause problems after an update. If you're encountering file errors or your custom post types are not working, deactivate all plugins and themes to isolate the problem.

Maintenance Mode Issues

If your site gets stuck in maintenance mode, delete the .maintenance file in your root directory. You can also install a maintenance mode plugin to handle updates smoothly in the future.

Using DotsDen’s Hosting for Seamless Updates

DotsDen offers a comprehensive hosting solution with a robust control hub designed to simplify updates. With their intuitive admin panel, you can handle auto-upgrade features for both plugins and themes, reducing the likelihood of core reasons causing an issue during updates.

Their PHP upgrade capabilities ensure your site meets the minimum requirements for running the latest WordPress version. Plus, DotsDen allows for easy management of user roles, giving you full control over your admin user and server user permissions.

Conclusion

Manually updating WordPress can seem intimidating, but by following this detailed guide, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to complete the process without issue. Remember to always create a complete backup, follow proper procedures when uploading core software, and check for permissions issues. By maintaining control over your custom configurations and ensuring all plugins are up-to-date, your site will remain secure and functional.

For users who prefer assistance, DotsDen’s hosting platform offers simplified tools and automated processes to ensure seamless core updates and security updates. You’ll benefit from their supportive community for developers and intuitive interfaces that make handling major versions, theme updates, and plugins auto-upgrade easier than ever.