WordPress updates are important for security, performance and compatibility, but they should be handled carefully. Updating everything blindly on a live website can sometimes break layouts, plugins, checkout systems or custom functionality.
Before updating
- Take a full backup of files and database.
- Check whether the website uses WooCommerce or other business-critical features.
- Review plugin compatibility where possible.
- Check the current PHP version.
- Avoid updating during peak trading hours.
Recommended update order
- Backup the site.
- Update plugins first.
- Update the theme.
- Update WordPress core.
- Clear cache.
- Test the homepage, contact forms, checkout and key pages.
WooCommerce caution
WooCommerce websites should be tested more carefully. Product pages, baskets, checkout, payment gateways and shipping calculations should all be checked after updates.
Best practice
For important websites, use a staging copy where possible. If staging is not available, ensure a recent backup exists before updating.
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