Perplexed by WordPress? Here’s How to Figure Out Your Website’s Version!

Are you bewildered by WordPress? You’re not alone! This ubiquitous content management system (CMS) powers over 35% of all websites on the internet, and it’s experienced countless upgrades and improvements since it debuted in 2003. With regular releases, every version brings its unique features, functionality, and fortified security measures.

So, why are WordPress updates crucial? Simple: they keep your website running smoothly, up-to-date, and secure. But how can you tell which version you’re currently using? In this convoluted guide, we’ll show you how!

Method 1: Check the “At a Glance” Dashboard Box

The easiest way to identify your WordPress version is to log in to your website’s dashboard. Once you’ve logged in, navigate to the “At a Glance” box on the dashboard’s right-hand side. It’ll show you the current version of WordPress running your website.

Occasionally, WordPress will notify you if there’s a new version available. The update notification pops up in the dashboard header section to identify your outdated version.

Method 2: Use the Generator Tag

Another means of locating your WordPress version is by using the generator tag. WordPress includes a snippet of code, called the generator tag, in every website’s header. To find it, right-click on your site and select “View Page Source.”

The resulting page displays a mountain of HTML code. Use “Ctrl + F” to search for “generator,” and you’ll see a tag that looks like this:

<meta name="generator" content="WordPress 5.8.1"

That line reveals that you’re using WordPress version 5.8.1 to run your site.

Method 3: Check the readme.html File

WordPress stores detailed information about the software in its files. One of these files is the readme.html file, situated in your website’s root folder. You can check the file by visiting https://yourwebsite.com/readme.html.

The file provides a wealth of information about your WordPress version, recent releases, and credits. Scroll down the page, and you’ll see your version at the bottom of the page.

Method 4: Use a Plugin

If you prefer a simple approach to check your WordPress version, find and use a plugin. Many WordPress plugins help display your site’s version seamlessly.

For instance, WP System Health is one such plugin. This tool provides detailed information about your website’s core, theme, and plugin status. It also displays your WordPress version on the dashboard’s main page.

Method 5: Check the wp-includes Folder

Every WordPress installation has a wp-includes folder that contains several files related to the WordPress core. In that folder, you’ll find a file called “version.php,” which indicates your WordPress version.

To access the version.php file and find your version, connect to your WordPress website using an FTP client. Navigate to the root directory of your website and locate the wp-includes folder, then open it. Scroll down until you find the version.php file, and open it to reveal your WordPress version.

Conclusion

Knowing your WordPress version is essential for keeping your website up-to-date and secure while reaping the latest functionality. These five simple methods can help you identify your website’s WordPress version without much difficulty. Keeping your website updated continually is vital to stay ahead in the ever-evolving technological world.