Keeping your WordPress site updated is crucial. However, balancing security with stability can be tricky when dealing with constant updates.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insider tips for taking complete control over automatic WordPress updates.
The Security Risks of Automatic Updates
Automatic updates are important. But some users perceive constant updates as annoying. Even worse, automated updates can occasionally break sites.
According to Sucuri, outdated plugins and themes play a role in over 80% of WordPress site hacks. Automating updates prevents these security issues.
However, automatic updates come with some risks:
| Risk | Likelihood | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Unexpected compatibility issues | Common | Break site functionality |
| Bugs introduced in new versions | Occasional | Temporarily impact site performance or experience |
| Changes to database structure | Rare | Significantly disrupt site |
Experts recommend balancing these risks with the following update best practices:
✅ Enable auto-updates for WordPress core
✅ Selectively enable auto-updates for trusted plugins/themes
✅ Have a rollback plan
✅ Use a comprehensive backup solution
Plugin Solution #1: Easy Updates Manager
I recommend the Easy Updates Manager plugin for superior control over automatic WordPress updates.
Easy Updates Manager stands out from alternatives like Automatic Updater with advanced features like:
✅ One-click updates configuration
✅ Granular control over individual items
✅ Update logs for accountability
✅ Easy one-click rollbacks
How to Configure
Upon installing:
- Go to Dashboard → Updates Options
- Enable auto-updates for everything under Quick Configuration
- Toggle granular options for plugins and themes
This balances security without surprise changes. You control what updates while staying protected.
Rollback Troublesome Updates
Despite best practices, plugin or theme updates may occasionally break things. WP Rollback makes undoing problematic updates simple:
- Install and activate WP Rollback
- On the Plugins page, click Rollback
- Choose the desired previous version
I also strongly advise using a trusted backup plugin like VaultPress. This lets you fully restore your site if needed.
Take Control for a Secure, Stable Site
I hope this guide gave you clarity in managing WordPress updates more effectively. The key is balancing security with stability through selective auto-updates and quick rollbacks.
Please let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m always happy to help fellow site owners with best practices.
