How to Force WordPress to Check for Plugin Updates (Easy Way)

As a seasoned WordPress developer with over 15 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the importance of keeping your WordPress plugins up-to-date. Outdated plugins can be a security risk, leaving your website vulnerable to attacks. Plus, they can sometimes cause compatibility issues, leading to unexpected errors or broken functionalities.

While WordPress typically checks for updates automatically, there are times when you might need to force a manual check. This is especially important when:

• A critical bug fix is released: If a bug is causing serious issues on your website, you’ll want to install the fix as soon as possible.
• A new feature is released: If you’re excited about a new feature and want to try it out, you’ll need to update your plugin to access it.
• You’ve just installed a new plugin: It’s always a good idea to check for updates after installing a new plugin to ensure you have the latest version.

Fortunately, forcing WordPress to check for plugin updates is a simple process. In this article, I’ll break down the two most effective methods, so you can stay ahead of the curve and keep your WordPress site running smoothly and securely.

Method 1: Using the Built-in WordPress Updates

If you just need to check for updates for a specific plugin or theme, the built-in WordPress update functionality is your easiest option. Here’s how to do it:

1. Navigate to the Updates Page: Log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Dashboard » Updates.
2. Click “Check Again”: On the Updates page, you’ll see a “Check Again” link. Click this to initiate a manual update check.
3. Review the Results: WordPress will reload the page and scan for updates. If any updates are available, they’ll be listed on the page and you’ll see a notification in the admin bar.
4. Install the Updates: If there are updates available, simply click the “Update Now” button next to each plugin or theme to install them.

Note: If a plugin appears outdated but doesn’t have an update, don’t panic! It might still be compatible with your WordPress version. However, it’s always a good idea to check the plugin’s documentation or contact the developer if you have any concerns.

Method 2: Managing WordPress Updates Using a Plugin

If you manage multiple WordPress websites or have a large number of plugins, keeping everything up-to-date can feel overwhelming. In these situations, using a plugin to automate the update process can save you a lot of time and effort.

One of my favorite plugins for managing WordPress updates is Easy Updates Manager. Here’s how to use it to force WordPress to check for plugin updates:

1. Install and Activate the Plugin: Install and activate the Easy Updates Manager plugin from the WordPress Plugin Directory. (You can find detailed instructions on how to install a WordPress plugin on the WPBeginner website.)
2. Configure Plugin Updates: Go to Dashboard » Updates and click on the Easy Updates Manager tab to access the plugin’s settings.
3. Choose per Plugin: Under the “General” tab, scroll down to “Plugin updates” and click on “Choose per plugin.” This allows you to select which plugins you want to automatically update.
4. Enable Automatic Updates: Navigate to the “Plugins” tab. For each plugin you trust, click on “Allowed” to allow updates and “On” to enable automatic updates. You can also switch to the “Advanced” tab and select “Force updates” to force all allowed plugins to update automatically.

Easy Updates Manager gives you granular control over your update process. You can choose to update only specific plugins, schedule updates, and even receive email notifications about available updates. It’s a powerful tool for managing your WordPress updates efficiently.

Conclusion

Keeping your WordPress plugins up-to-date is crucial for maintaining website security, performance, and functionality. By using the methods outlined in this article, you can ensure that your website is always running the latest versions of its plugins. Whether you opt for the built-in WordPress update tool or utilize a plugin like Easy Updates Manager, the choice is yours!

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FAQs

What happens if I don’t update my WordPress plugins?

Not updating your plugins can have several negative consequences, including:

• Security vulnerabilities: Outdated plugins can contain security holes that hackers can exploit to gain access to your website.
• Compatibility issues: Plugins may become incompatible with newer versions of WordPress or other plugins, causing your website to malfunction.
• Performance problems: Older plugins may not be optimized for the latest technology, leading to slow loading times and a poor user experience.
• Loss of features: New features and improvements may not be available in older versions of plugins.

How often should I check for WordPress plugin updates?

It’s a good idea to check for plugin updates at least once a week. Some plugins are updated more frequently than others, so it’s best to stay on top of updates to avoid any potential issues.

Can I update all my WordPress plugins at once?

While you can update multiple plugins at once, it’s generally recommended to update them individually. This allows you to monitor the update process for each plugin and identify any potential problems early on.

What if I’m not sure if I should update a plugin?

If you’re unsure about updating a plugin, it’s always best to consult the plugin’s documentation or contact the developer. They can provide you with the latest information about the update and any potential risks or benefits.

How can I tell if a plugin update is safe?

It’s always a good idea to check the update notes for any security fixes or known issues. You can also read reviews from other users or search for any reports of problems related to the update.

Is it okay to use outdated plugins?

It’s generally not recommended to use outdated plugins. If a plugin is outdated, it’s likely to contain security vulnerabilities and may not be compatible with newer versions of WordPress or other plugins.

Why does WordPress sometimes not detect updates?

There are a few reasons why WordPress might not detect updates:

• Internet connection: A slow or unstable internet connection can prevent WordPress from connecting to the update server.
• Server configuration: Some server configurations may block access to the update server.
• Plugin conflicts: A conflicting plugin may be interfering with the update process.
• Firewall: Your firewall may be blocking access to the update server.

What should I do if I can’t force WordPress to check for updates?

If you’re unable to force WordPress to check for updates, try the following steps:

• Check your internet connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
• Disable all plugins: Temporarily disable all plugins and see if that resolves the issue.
• Contact your hosting provider: Your hosting provider may be able to help you troubleshoot the problem.

How can I make sure my WordPress website is secure?

In addition to keeping your plugins up-to-date, here are some other steps you can take to secure your WordPress website:

• Use a strong password: Choose a strong password for your WordPress login and change it regularly.
• Install a security plugin: Install a reputable security plugin to protect your website from attacks.
• Keep WordPress core updated: Regularly update WordPress core to benefit from the latest security fixes and performance improvements.
• Back up your website: Regularly back up your website to ensure you have a copy of your data in case of a security breach or other disaster.

Is it safe to update my WordPress plugins while my website is live?

It’s generally safe to update your plugins while your website is live. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your website before updating any plugins, just in case something goes wrong. If you are concerned about downtime, you can also schedule updates for off-peak hours.

I hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand how to force WordPress to check for plugin updates. Remember, keeping your WordPress website up-to-date is a vital part of website maintenance and security. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and keep your website running smoothly!