There are many reasons for keeping your WordPress installation and it’s supplementary plugins up-to-date. In this post, we will cover the some of the reasons that you should keep your website updated in the hope that you will gain an understanding of the pros and cons of doing so.
-
Access to the latest features and benefits
Both WordPress and most plugin developers are continually working on and enhancing their software in an effort to keep up with the latest trends. Updating your software regularly ensures that you have access to the latest features and your website utilises the latest technologies.
-
Access to the latest Security Updates
The internet is a dangerous place when it comes to hackers and WordPress is one of the most popular website platforms in the world. WordPress is a constant target for hackers because of its prevalence and therefore, hackers are continually finding ways to penetrate the WordPress architecture. It is because of this, WordPress and plugin developers will continually update their software to plug any security flaws that they may find throughout the process of testing. By continually updating your versions of software and realted plugins, you are ensuring that you have access to all the latest features and security that are available.
NOTE: Most WordPress software and plugins are updated monthly or even more regularly than that – This is an ongoing recommendation to make sure that you are always up to date.
-
Server Management and Upgrades can Break WordPress Websites
Not only does the website software get updated regularly but also, the software that powers the web server is also susceptible to the same sorts of issues and problems with relation to security risks potential bugs. With this in mind, web server patches are regularly released and most good hosting companies will ensure that they are running the latest version of web server software to reduce the risk of problems. This can create major issues with older plugins and software that was developed using older web server software. When this happens, an update to the web server software can make the software or plugin unusable if it is using old, deprecated code. Therefore, keeping all software and plugins up-to-date will ensure in 99% of cases, that the software will continue to function on the latest web server platform.
If you would like more information or would like a quote on getting your website upgraded, please contact Oley Media on 1300 795 390 or email.
NOTE: If you decide to perform your own upgrades then PLEASE ENSURE YOU TAKE A BACKUP OF THE WEBSITE AND THE DATABASE before starting. This is critical in case of any issues that can and do arise in the process of updating software.