How to Update WordPress Plugins Safely (2026 Guide)

Keeping plugins updated is one of the most important things you can do for a WordPress or WooCommerce site: updates fix security issues, bugs and compatibility with new WordPress and WooCommerce versions. Here is how to do it safely.

Before you update

• Back up your files and database (most hosts and backup plugins do this in one click).
• Read the changelog for major versions.
• Use staging for busy stores: test updates on a copy of the site first.
• Avoid peak hours on WooCommerce stores.

Method 1: One-click update

Go to Plugins → Installed Plugins. Plugins with updates show a notice; click Update now. You can also use Dashboard → Updates.

Method 2: Bulk updates

On the Plugins screen, tick several plugins, choose Update from Bulk actions and Apply. Update fewer plugins at a time on critical sites so problems are easy to trace.

Method 3: Automatic updates

Click Enable auto-updates next to a plugin. This suits small, well-maintained plugins; for core store plugins like payment gateways you may prefer to update manually after testing.

Method 4: Premium plugins

Premium plugins update through their licence. For CoderPress Pro plugins — such as Custom Product Builder for WooCommerce Pro or NOWPayments for WooCommerce Pro — activate your licence key in the plugin settings to receive updates in the dashboard, or download the latest zip from your account and upload it via Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin (WordPress offers to replace the current version).

If an update breaks something

1. Deactivate the plugin you just updated and check if the issue disappears.
2. Restore your backup, or roll back to the previous version.
3. Clear caches (plugin, server and CDN).
4. Enable WP_DEBUG_LOG to see errors, and contact the plugin’s support with details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I update a WordPress plugin?

Go to Plugins → Installed Plugins in your WordPress dashboard and click “Update now” under the plugin. Back up your site first.

Should I enable automatic plugin updates on WooCommerce?

Automatic updates are fine for small, low-risk plugins. For payment gateways and store-critical plugins, update manually after testing on staging.

How do I update CoderPress Pro plugins?

Activate your licence key in the CoderPress plugin settings to get dashboard updates, or upload the latest zip from your CoderPress account via Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin.