Are Automatic Updates in WordPress Safe?
In the ever-evolving world of web development, convenience often comes hand in hand with complexity. One such convenience, automatic updates in WordPress, seems like a lifesaver at first. However, a closer look reveals that it is not the best practice.
Here are several reasons why we don’t recommend having “auto updates” enabled in your WordPress website and, instead, recommend manual plugin and theme updates.
Incomplete Updates
Incomplete Database Updates
Compatibility Issues
Testing and Staging is Needed
Security Concerns
Control and Customization
Your WordPress website is unique. It reflects your brand, your vision, and your goals. Automatic updates strip away your control and can inadvertently change the look, feel, or functionality of your site. Manual updates allow you to adapt updates to suit your site’s specific needs.
Manual Backups Needed
Always have a backup plan. With manual updates, you can take the time to perform a full backup of your website before applying any changes. If something goes awry, you can easily roll back to a previous state.
The Conclusion
It’s worth noting that many hosting providers, such as GoDaddy, have automatic updates enabled by default. If you’re unsure whether auto-updates are enabled for your site, consider asking your WordPress developer. If you manage your WordPress website yourself, a quick check can be done by looking at the top black admin bar when logged in; if it says “disable auto-updates,” this means auto-updates are currently active.
By making updates by hand and checking your website’s appearance after you update each one, you can safeguard your website’s functionality, appearance, and security.
So, if you see the “enable auto-updates” button in your admin bar, pause for a moment and consider the benefits of manual updates – your website will thank you for it.
Ready to simplify your WordPress updates and ensure your website stays in top shape? Explore our WordPress Care Plan, where we not only handle the updates for you but also provide you with peace of mind – if an update goes awry, we’ll fix it – which is included in your website care plan!
