How To Update WordPress via FTP?

Do you subscribe to a WordPress hosting plan and need help updating to the latest version of WordPress? Keeping your WordPress website updated with the latest version is crucial for optimal security and performance. While a one-click update is available within the WordPress dashboard, some situations might necessitate a manual update via FTP (File Transfer Protocol). This guide will walk you through manually updating WordPress via FTP, ensuring a smooth transition to the newest version.

Updating Wordpress: One-Click vs. Manual FTP Approach

Maintaining your WordPress website with the latest version is crucial for several reasons. These updates often include important security patches that protect your site from vulnerabilities and malware. Additionally, newer versions typically offer improved performance, speed, and compatibility with various plugins and themes.

WordPress conveniently notifies you within the Admin Dashboard whenever a new update is available. Updating is a straightforward process, and you can choose between two methods:

• One-Click Update (Recommended): This is the simplest and most recommended approach. Simply navigate to Dashboard > Updates and click the "Update Now" button or similar wording depending on your version. WordPress will automatically download and install the update for you.
• Manual Update via FTP (For Advanced Users): This method is more technical and suited for advanced users who might encounter issues with the one-click update. It involves downloading the updated files from WordPress.org, connecting to your website via FTP, and manually uploading the new files. We recommend consulting a developer if you're unfamiliar with FTP.

Important considerations before updating:

• Backup Your Website: It's vital to create a full backup of your website, including files and database, before performing any updates. This ensures you can revert to the previous version if any issues arise.
• Compatibility: While updates typically improve compatibility, it's wise to check if any plugins or themes you use are compatible with the newest WordPress version.

Manual WordPress Update via FTP

This section dives into the manual update process for WordPress using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). This method is ideal for advanced users who may encounter issues with the one-click update or prefer more control over the process.

1. Download the Latest WordPress Core Files: Navigate to the WordPress.org download page and download the latest version of the core files. These files will typically be compressed in a ZIP or TAR.GZ format.
2. Prepare Your Website (Important):
   • Backup: Before proceeding, create a complete website backup, including all files and the database. This is a safety net in case any complications arise during the update.
   • Deactivate Plugins: It's recommended to temporarily deactivate all plugins to avoid conflicts with the new core files.
3. Connect to Your Website via FTP: Utilize an FTP client like FileZilla to establish a connection to your website's server. You'll need your FTP credentials (host, username, and password) provided by your web hosting service.
4. Upload Core Files:
   • Delete Old Directories: Locate and delete the existing wp-admin and wp-includes directories on your server using your FTP client.
   • Upload New Directories: Upload the downloaded wp-admin and wp-includes directories from the latest core files to your server, replacing the ones you deleted.
5. Upload wp-content Files (Selective):
   • Access the wp-content Directory: Navigate to the wp-content directory on your server using your FTP client. This folder contains your themes and plugins.
   • Upload Individual Files: Do not delete the entire wp-content folder. Instead, upload individual files from the new wp-content folder within the downloaded core files, overwriting only the ones that have changed.
6. Upload Root Directory Files: Upload any additional loose files included in the downloaded core files' root directory to your website's root directory on the server.
7. Verify File Replacements: Ensure all core files in the wp-admin and wp-includes directories, as well as any loose files in the root directory, have been replaced with the new versions. Important: Do not overwrite your wp-config.php file.
8. Access WordPress Admin: Visit your WordPress admin dashboard at /wp-admin to check if the update process requires any database upgrades. WordPress will typically provide instructions if this is necessary.
9. Reactivate Plugins & Clear Cache After completing the update, reactivate your previously deactivated plugins. Additionally, clear your website's cache and cookies to ensure everything functions smoothly with the new version.
10. Update the database (Optional): Some installations may require you to update your database as well after you manually update WordPress. Here's how you can do that easily:
    1. Log into your WordPress admin panel.
    2. If there’s a notification that says, ‘Database Update Required,’ you’ll find a button beneath it labeled ‘Update WordPress Database.’
    3. Simply click this button to start the update.

    It only takes a few moments, and once it's done, you’ll see a confirmation message indicating success. Your website will then be updated to the latest version, all set for you to continue adding new content.

After uploading files, visit your WordPress admin dashboard (/wp-admin) to check for a database upgrade and follow any instructions provided. Reactivate plugins and clear your website's cache and cookies to finalize the update and ensure everything runs smoothly with the latest version.