WordPress Error Solution: Can't Update to Latest WordPress Version

Keeping your WordPress site updated is essential for security, performance, and access to new features. However, many users face issues when trying to update to the latest WordPress version. If you're encountering problems with updating, this guide will walk you through the common causes and provide step-by-step solutions to ensure your site stays current.

Common Issues Preventing WordPress Updates

Several factors can prevent WordPress from updating properly, including:

1. Server Configuration: Incorrect server settings can block the update process.

2. File Permissions: Incorrect file permissions can prevent WordPress from writing new files.

3. Plugin or Theme Conflicts: Outdated or poorly coded plugins/themes can interfere with the update.

4. Insufficient PHP Memory Limit: Low PHP memory can cause the update to fail.

5. Corrupted Core Files: Corrupted WordPress core files can halt the update process.

Also Read - Fix Partially Loaded WordPress Pages: Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Backup Your Site

Before attempting any fixes, always back up your WordPress site. This ensures you can restore your site if anything goes wrong during the update process.

Using a Plugin:

• Install and activate a backup plugin like UpdraftPlus.
• Follow the plugin’s instructions to create a full backup of your site.

Manual Backup:

• Backup your WordPress files via FTP or your hosting control panel.
• Export your database using phpMyAdmin or a similar tool.

2. Check File Permissions

Incorrect file permissions can prevent WordPress from updating properly. Ensure your files and folders have the correct permissions.

Access via FTP:

• Connect to your site via FTP using a client like FileZilla.
• Navigate to your WordPress root directory.

Set Correct Permissions:

• Folders should have a permission setting of 755.
• Files should have a permission setting of 644.
• Right-click the files/folders, select "File Permissions," and set the appropriate values.

3. Increase PHP Memory Limit

If your server has insufficient PHP memory, the update might fail.

Edit wp-config.php:

• Access your WordPress root directory via FTP or file manager.
• Open wp-config.php for editing.
• Add the following line:

define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

• Save and upload the file back to your server.

4. Deactivate Plugins and Themes

Plugins or themes can sometimes conflict with the update process. Deactivating them can help identify the issue.

Deactivate All Plugins:

• Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins in your WordPress dashboard.
• Select all plugins and choose Deactivate from the bulk actions menu.
• Attempt the update again.

Switch to a Default Theme:

• Go to Appearance > Themes.
• Activate a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-One.
• Attempt the update again.

5. Manually Update WordPress

If the automatic update fails, you can manually update WordPress.

Download the Latest Version:

• Go to the WordPress download page and download the latest version.

Extract the Files:

• Extract the downloaded zip file to your computer.

Upload via FTP:

• Connect to your site via FTP.
• Navigate to the root directory of your WordPress installation.
• Upload the contents of the extracted WordPress folder to your server, overwriting the existing files.

Update Database:

• After uploading the files, go to http://yourdomain.com/wp-admin/upgrade.php in your browser.
• Follow the instructions to update the database if prompted.

6. Check Server Configuration

Ensure your server meets the minimum requirements for running the latest version of WordPress.

PHP Version:

Ensure your server is running PHP 7.4 or higher. You can check and update this in your hosting control panel or contact your hosting provider for assistance.

MySQL Version:

Ensure your server is running MySQL 5.6 or higher, or MariaDB 10.1 or higher.

7. Review Error Logs

Reviewing error logs can help identify specific issues preventing the update.

Access Server Logs:

• Log in to your hosting control panel and navigate to the error logs section.
• Review any errors related to WordPress updates.

Enable Debugging in WordPress:

• Add the following lines to your wp-config.php file to enable debugging:

define('WP_DEBUG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_LOG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false);

• This will create a debug.log file in the wp-content directory.

Also Read - How to Remove Old WordPress Core Files Not Removed During Update

Conclusion

Updating to the latest version of WordPress is crucial for maintaining the security and performance of your site. By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve common issues that prevent updates. Always ensure you have a recent backup before making any changes, and if problems persist, consider reaching out to your hosting provider or a professional developer for assistance. Regular updates and maintenance will help keep your WordPress site running smoothly and securely.