How to Enable Automatic WordPress Core Updates | Step-by-Step

Check if Automatic WordPress Core Updates Are Enabled

Managing a WordPress website involves keeping it secure, functional, and up-to-date. One of the most critical steps is ensuring automatic WordPress core updates are enabled. Automatic updates primarily cover minor updates and security patches, reducing the chances of vulnerabilities affecting your website.

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Why It Is Important to Check If Automatic WordPress Core Updates Are Enabled

Enabling automatic updates ensures that your website:

1. Remains Secure: WordPress frequently releases updates that address security loopholes. Without these updates, your site becomes vulnerable to cyber threats.
2. Enhances Functionality: Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements, ensuring smooth website functionality.
3. Saves Time: With automatic updates, you don’t have to worry about manually updating your website every time a new patch is released.

Failing to enable automatic updates could expose your site to outdated software, leaving it vulnerable to malicious attacks and compatibility issues.

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What Problems Can Arise If Automatic Updates Are Not Enabled?

1. Security Risks: Cyberattacks often exploit outdated WordPress installations, making your website an easy target.
2. Compatibility Issues: Outdated WordPress versions may not work seamlessly with newer plugins or themes, leading to functionality breakdowns.
3. Time-consuming Manual Updates: Without automation, you need to manually check and update the core, increasing the workload.
4. Reputational Damage: If your site is compromised, it could damage your brand’s reputation and lead to data loss or downtime.

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How to Check and Enable Automatic WordPress Core Updates

Follow these steps to ensure that automatic updates are enabled on your WordPress website.

Step 1: Check Current Update Settings

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Navigate to Tools > Site Health.
3. Under the Status tab, look for a message about automatic updates for WordPress core.If it says “Automatic core updates are enabled,” you’re all set. Otherwise, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Enable Automatic Updates via wp-config.php

1. Access your WordPress files using an FTP client or the File Manager in your hosting control panel.
2. Locate the wp-config.php file in the root directory.
3. Add the following line to enable automatic updates: phpCopy codedefine( 'WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE', true );
4. Save and upload the file.

Step 3: Enable Updates Using a Plugin

If you prefer not to edit code, you can use a plugin like Easy Updates Manager:

1. Install and activate the plugin.
2. Go to Dashboard > Updates Options.
3. Configure the settings to enable core updates automatically.

Step 4: Verify Changes

1. Return to Tools > Site Health and confirm that automatic updates are now enabled.
2. Test your site to ensure it functions as expected.

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Conclusion

Ensuring automatic WordPress core updates are enabled is a critical step for maintaining the security and stability of your website. By enabling automatic updates, you can focus on growing your business without worrying about the technical risks posed by outdated software. Follow the simple steps outlined above to secure your website today!