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Are updates really necessary?
Updates
Sometimes you get a bit simple from all the updates on your websites, are they all really necessary?
We all know that figure at the top.
There are 3 different updates:
- WordPress
- Plugins
- Themes
Most updates are for your own safety and your site will be updated to the latest, most secure, version.
WordPress updates
WordPress updates are related to software. They make it more difficult for hackers to hack into your site. Bugs are removed and / or repaired. And sometimes you get new features.
Theme updates
When you start a website you choose a specific theme. This theme is the basis for your website, and gives a certain appearance. I chose Weaver Xtreme, a very extensive theme, with many possibilities. Theme designers are also busy securing and improving this. And with every WordPress update, the theme is usually adjusted. Some themes are no longer maintained. Then it might be wise to change the theme. Because then your security is compromised.
Change theme, what can you expect?
Plugin updates
A plugin is a small program, code or script that adds certain tricks to your site. Your standard website is expanded with this. First of all you have to check if the plugin is compatible with your website. and if it has been updated lately. Over the years I have already had to replace a few plugins because they are no longer supported. That gives a lot of hassle. Un-updated plugins pose a threat to your website and allow hackers to penetrate. Don't use outdated plugins.
Plugins can sometimes change their strategy with an update, and the functioning and operation are then changed. This often happens when it transfers to another owner.
Sometimes things go wrong
Sometimes updates go wrong, your website no longer works. Oops !!
You can then enable Site Support, but even then it may be that your site no longer looks as usual.
The best way is to take your own responsibility to backup your site yourself for an update via FTP.
MarionBlack has 2 great trainings for that.
Using filezilla ftp to backup your website
Stay safe, stay healthy, stay in control!
Reply
It gives me the creeps when I read all that can go wrong, when one changes a theme.
I know my theme is not the best. I have the same for both websites as when I started in Jan. 2017 I had no idea what I was doing.
I wanted a big header photo, and it was said about the theme it was especially for bloggers, those being the reasons why I chose it.I will just keep my fingers crossed and only act when I have to.
I hope everything is ok up north? Since last Sunday, little children are allowed on the streets for 1 hour a day. We, the pensionistas, will soon be allowed too.
Stay safe and healthy,
Taetske
Everything is alright here, although we are running on eggs.
Yes, a theme update can rattle some things. I had 3 theme updates, and a whole lot of work to re-arrange everything again.
Let's hope the best outcome for the virus lockdown.
Greetings back from up North:)
