The Importance of Automatic Updates for WordPress Websites
Gaining Control over Updates
WordPress 3.7 brought the introduction of automatic updates as a means to improve the security and stability of websites. While this feature offers numerous benefits, it also presents some drawbacks. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of automatic updates and provide two methods to gain control over them.
Understanding Automatic Updates in WordPress
Automatic updates in WordPress 3.7 aimed to simplify the process of updating websites. With this feature, minor updates are installed automatically, while major updates still require user confirmation. This can save time and effort for individuals who want to avoid manual updates and ensure that their website remains up-to-date and secure.
However, not everyone appreciates this new feature. Developers may worry that certain updates will disrupt the functionality of their site or necessitate additional preparations for their plugins. Additionally, pro bloggers and users who prefer having complete control over their website updates may opt not to enable automatic updates in WordPress.
Method 1: Using a Plugin to Control Updates
If you desire more control over automatic updates in WordPress, you can utilize a plugin. The “Updates Option” plugin, developed by George Stephanis and Chip Bennett, provides a simple way to customize your update settings. By navigating to Settings > General, you can access the plugin’s settings. If you wish to disable automatic updates entirely, you can select the “NO” option under “Automatic Updates Enabled?”. This plugin not only allows you to control WordPress core file updates but also plugin and theme updates.
Method 2: Configuring the wp-config File for Advanced Users
For advanced users, the wp-config file offers an alternative method to disable or enable automatic updates. If you want to disable all updates, including minor and major core updates, you can add the following code to your wp-config.php file:
define( ‘WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE’, false );
If you wish to enable both minor and major automatic updates, you can use the following code:
define( ‘WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE’, true );
To revert to the default value, which allows only minor updates, you can use the following code:
define( ‘WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE’, ‘minor’ );
This method eliminates the need to install another plugin, providing a cleaner solution.
Evaluating the Pros and Cons
Before deciding whether to keep or disable the automatic update feature, it is important to consider several factors. If you have an older blog with outdated plugins and design, it may be wise to disable automatic updates and manually check the compatibility of your themes and plugins with the latest WordPress version. On the other hand, if you are confident in the compatibility of your site, keeping the feature enabled can save you time and effort.
Regardless of your choice, it is crucial to regularly back up your WordPress blog. This ensures that you have a failsafe in case any issues arise from automatic updates.
In conclusion, automatic updates in WordPress have their advantages and disadvantages. By selecting the appropriate method for your needs, you can strike a balance between security, convenience, and control. Whether you opt for a plugin or the wp-config method, make sure to make an informed decision that aligns with your website’s requirements. Feel free to share this article with other WordPress users who may benefit from it!
