Why is it important to keep plugins updated in WordPress?

by | Mar 14, 2020 | WordPress

It is a common question of website developers regarding the installation of updates for plugins in WordPress. They often ask if these updates are necessary for their sites.
Our answer is “Yes” due to a number of reasons.

1.

Security

2.

Bugs

3.

Features

4.

Speed
WordPress is a software and needs to be updated like you update windows or your mobile phone. Below we explain some important reasons why you need to update plugins in WordPress.

To get better security

Most of the updates fix problems like bugs and security vulnerabilities. Hackers are always trying to find security issues so that they can take advantage of them. When new plugin updates are introduced and you don’t update, your site becomes vulnerable to hackers. For example, a plugin update like Akismet was aimed at closing a potential XSS vulnerability.

Whenever experts talk about security, the first thing they emphasise is to install updates. About 83% of the hacked WP sites were those that had not been updated. So, it is crucial to regularly update your plugins so that your website remains secure.

Fixing bugs

Sometimes WordPress releases plugins or themes that fix bugs that were present in some previous versions. So, in order to get the fixed version you need to update.

Features and Functionality

Major releases in WP come with new and exciting features and increased functionality. These functions may vary from improved plugin install to online image editing tools. In order to really take advantage of all the advanced features, you need to install updates. These updates will improve your experience of using WP.

Speed

Developers at WP are always trying out ways that make things faster. Every new release fixes some performance issues that make your site faster and efficient. For example, WP 4.1 improved complex queries that in turn improved the performance of sites by bringing those queries in use. Similarly, WP 4.2 came with improved JS performance for navigation menus. Also, to get maximum performance benefits from your WP site, it is necessary that you update regularly as speed is a crucial factor in SEO.

How to update WordPress

The updating process has been simplified by WordPress like any other platform. There are notifications that tell you if an update is pending. If you aren’t a daily user, you can get email alerts by downloading a plugin like WP Updates Notifier.

 

  • Whenever an update is released, it is recommended to read the notes to see what changes are present in that particular update.
  • If you have a development site, you can test the update on it before you apply it on your live site.
  • Usually, site developers back up their sites regularly or use plugins like BackupBuddy. So it is recommended to make regular backups.
  • Next, you can install the update to your live site.
  • Now you need to test your site. Check all the items that were mentioned in the release notes of the update.