Understanding FTP and Updating WordPress through it

An Overview of WordPress

WordPress is a powerful tool used by small business owners, bloggers, and developers across the world. Over 40% of all websites on the internet are powered by WordPress. Keeping a WordPress site updated and secure is one of the essential tasks every user must do.

Introduction to FTP

FTP or File Transfer Protocol is a standard protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server. It’s especially helpful because it provides an easy way to transfer files like WordPress plugins, themes, and files to a web server.

Why Update WordPress through FTP

Updating WordPress via File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is usually necessary when the WordPress Admin Panel is broken or when automatic updates fail. It’s also helpful when you use a local installation, and you want more control over the update process.

How to Update WordPress through FTP

Step 1: Back up Your WordPress Site. This step ensures that your site stays safe in case anything goes wrong during the update.

Step 2: Download the Latest WordPress Version. After downloading the latest version of WordPress, extract the .zip file.

Step 3: Connect to Your Website via FTP. Download an FTP client like FileZilla, and enter the FTP credentials.

Step 4: Access Your WordPress Files. Once you connect, navigate to the public_html or WWW folder where WordPress is usually installed.

Step 5: Upload the New WordPress Version. Drag and drop the files from the extracted .zip file to the installation folder.

Step 6: Replace wp-content Folder. Delete the wp-content folder, and replace it with the wp-content folder from your local copy of the website.

Step 7: Update wp-config.php File. This file contains critical settings and MySQL database credentials that need updating.

Step 8: Update the WordPress Database. After updating the wp-config.php file, navigate to your WordPress website, and update the WordPress database.

Step 9: Test Your Website. Check the front end and WordPress admin to ensure both are working correctly.

FAQs

• Q: What is FTP?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol.

• Q: Why should I update WordPress via FTP?

You should update WordPress via FTP when the WordPress Admin Interface is broken, when automatic updates fail, when using a local installation, or when you want more control over the update process.

• Q: How do I update WordPress via FTP?

Back up your website, download the latest WordPress version, connect to your website via FTP, access your WordPress files, upload the new WordPress version, replace the wp-content folder, update wp-config.php file, update the WordPress database, and test your website.

Conclusion

Updating WordPress through FTP helps users retain control over their website’s update process. Following the outlined steps in this guide will help WordPress site owners and developers keep their sites updated and ensure that their site remains secure at all times. It’s essential to back up the site before updating and test the site once the updates are complete for a smooth transition.