Why Disabling Auto Updates in WordPress Can Save Your Website from Breaking

Managing a WordPress website is keeping it secure and ensuring seamless functionality without disruption. While WordPress auto-updates aim to simplify website maintenance, they can sometimes lead to unexpected issues. In this article, we explore why turning off auto updates for PHP, themes, WordPress core, and plugins can protect your site from breaking, and how to manage updates safely.

Why Auto Updates Can Be Risky

1. Compatibility Issues
   Auto-updating plugins or themes may cause conflicts with your existing setup. For example, a plugin update may not be compatible with your theme or the WordPress version you’re using.
2. Unintended Site Breakage
   Some updates come with bugs that haven’t been fully tested across various environments. Auto-updating without testing can result in broken layouts or site functionality.
3. Loss of Customisations
   If you have custom code in your theme or plugins, auto-updates may overwrite these modifications unless you’re using a child theme or custom plugin.
4. Security Concerns
   Although updates often include security patches, a rushed or poorly executed update can open the website to new vulnerabilities instead of fixing them.

What Maybe Auto Updates in WordPress

While turning off auto updates for major components is recommended for stability, certain updates can be safely automated:

• Minor WordPress Core Updates: These generally include security and bug fixes with minimal risk. (Example – WP version from 6.1.1 to 6.1.2) 
• Trusted Plugin Updates: For widely used and regularly maintained plugins, auto-updates can be less risky.
• Translation Files: These updates rarely cause issues and can be left on auto-update.

What Should Not Be Auto Updates in WordPress?

To prevent downtime and functionality issues, consider turning off auto updates for:

• Major WordPress Core Updates: Test new versions in a staging environment first. (Example – WP version from 6.1 to 6.2).
• PHP Updates: Ensure your site is compatible with the new PHP version before updating.
• Themes: Always back up and test theme updates to avoid breaking design elements.
• Plugins with Customisations: If you’ve customised a plugin, automatic updates can override your changes.

Best Practices for Managing Auto Updates in WordPress

1. Use a Staging Site: Test all updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site.
2. Regular Backups: Schedule backups before updating to restore your site quickly if something goes wrong.
3. Monitor Plugin and Theme Changelogs: Review update notes to understand potential impacts.
4. Implement a Maintenance Schedule: Set regular intervals for manual updates and testing.

Final Thoughts

While auto-updates offer convenience, they also come with risks that can disrupt your business website. By selectively disabling auto updates and implementing a structured update process, you can maintain both the security and stability of your WordPress site.

At Active WebDezign, we offer comprehensive WordPress maintenance services to handle updates, backups, and performance monitoring so you can focus on your business. Contact us to learn more about keeping your website secure and functional without the stress.