Upgrading WordPress keeps your site secure and compatible with the latest PHP versions on Loopia’s servers. This guide explains why updates matter and how to install them from the WordPress dashboard (admin area, wp-admin), including how to upgrade plugins (add-ons) and themes (templates).
Why upgrade WordPress?
WordPress is updated frequently, and older versions sometimes contain security vulnerabilities. These weaknesses can lead to downtime if unauthorised users gain access and modify the content of your WordPress site.
Another good reason to keep your installation up to date is that Loopia continuously updates its servers. We do this to maintain a high level of security and to give you the opportunity to take advantage of new features. Older versions of WordPress (2.8.2 and earlier) do not support newer versions of PHP (5.3 and later), so it is a good idea to always keep your WordPress installation current.
How do I upgrade WordPress?
Before updating a WordPress installation, make sure you have a backup of the site. Loopia always keeps a full backup, and you can restore your site from the Loopia Customer Zone.
If you want even more control, you can also manually back up your database. To back up your files as well, use an FTP program.
Automatic update (WordPress 2.7 or later)
From version 2.7 onwards, the update routine is built into WordPress. If your version is newer than 2.7 but older than the latest release, you will see a notice like the one below in your WordPress dashboard:
Click the link Please Update Now to open the update options.
On the next screen, click Update Now or Re-install now and WordPress will start the update automatically. The update may take a few minutes, so leave the page open until it completes.
Upgrade plugins and themes
It is also a good idea to update your plugins (add-ons) and themes (templates) at the same time. If a newer version is available, you will see it in the dashboard. Hover over Dashboard and then click Updates.
Tick the checkbox next to the plugin or theme you want to upgrade, then click Update theme/plugin. The upgrade may take a few minutes, so leave the window open until it is finished.
Manual upgrade (WordPress 2.6 or older)
Download the latest version of WordPress here and extract the files into a folder on your computer.
Log in to your FTP account and go to the folder where WordPress is installed. Copy everything from the folders on your computer into this folder, except for the wp-content folder. If you are asked to replace files, select Yes.