Skip to main content

WordPress Plugins Update

Understand KloudBean's policy on WordPress plugin and theme updates. Learn best practices for safely updating your WordPress site.

Overview​

At KloudBean, we prioritize the stability, security, and overall performance of our clients' websites. However, we would like to clarify our position regarding plugin and theme updates for WordPress sites.

KloudBean's Plugin Update Policy​

KloudBean does not take responsibility for updating plugins on client websites.

This policy is in place to protect your website from potential issues that can arise from automatic plugin updates.

Why We Don't Auto-Update Plugins​

There are several important reasons why we don't automatically update WordPress plugins:

Potential Risks​

  1. Functionality Breaking: Plugin updates can sometimes cause website functionality to break or behave unpredictably
  2. Plugin Conflicts: Updates may create conflicts with other plugins or themes installed on your site
  3. Nulled Plugins: Some sites use nulled (unauthorized) plugins that interfere with standard update processes
  4. Premium Plugins: Premium plugins often require manual or specific update procedures that can't be automated
  5. Custom Code: Sites with custom code may have dependencies on specific plugin versions
  6. Testing Required: Updates should be tested in a staging environment before being applied to production

Your Control​

By managing updates yourself, you maintain full control over:

  • When updates are applied: Choose the best time for updates
  • Which plugins to update: Selectively update plugins based on your needs
  • Testing process: Test updates before applying them to your live site
  • Rollback capability: Ability to revert if something goes wrong

What You Should Do​

We strongly recommend that clients handle plugin updates on their own or consult with a qualified developer who understands the structure and dependencies of their site.

Best Practices for Updating Plugins​

If you choose to update plugins yourself, please follow these essential precautions:

1. Create Backups​

Always back up your website before making any changes.

  • Full Backup: Create a complete backup of your site files and database
  • Backup Location: Store backups in a safe location (not on the same server)
  • Verify Backups: Ensure backups are complete and can be restored
  • Multiple Backups: Keep multiple backup versions for safety

2. Test in Staging Environment​

Test updates on a staging environment if possible.

  • Staging Site: Use a staging or development copy of your site
  • Test Functionality: Verify all features work correctly after updates
  • Check Compatibility: Ensure plugins work well together
  • Performance Testing: Check that site performance isn't affected

3. Avoid Unauthorized Plugins​

Avoid using unauthorized or nulled plugins.

  • Security Risks: Nulled plugins may pose security risks
  • Update Issues: They often hinder proper update processes
  • Malware Risk: Unauthorized plugins may contain malware
  • Support Issues: No support available for nulled plugins
  • Legal Concerns: Using nulled plugins may violate licensing agreements

4. Update Process​

When updating plugins:

  1. Review Update Notes: Read the plugin's update changelog
  2. Check Compatibility: Verify compatibility with your WordPress version
  3. Update One at a Time: Update plugins individually to identify any issues
  4. Test After Each Update: Verify functionality after each update
  5. Monitor Performance: Check site performance after updates
  6. Keep Logs: Document any issues encountered

5. Premium Plugin Updates​

For premium plugins:

  • Follow Vendor Instructions: Use the update method recommended by the plugin vendor
  • License Verification: Ensure your license is valid and active
  • Manual Updates: Some premium plugins require manual update procedures
  • Support Contact: Contact plugin support if you encounter issues

When to Update Plugins​

Regular Updates​

  • Security Updates: Apply security updates immediately
  • Critical Fixes: Update for critical bug fixes
  • Feature Updates: Update when new features are needed
  • Compatibility: Update to maintain WordPress compatibility

When to Wait​

  • Major Version Changes: Wait and test major version updates
  • Known Issues: Delay if update has known issues
  • Custom Dependencies: Wait if your site depends on specific versions
  • Busy Periods: Avoid updates during high-traffic periods

Getting Help​

KloudBean Support​

If you need support or have concerns about plugin updates:

  • Reach Out: Feel free to contact our support team
  • Guidance: We're happy to provide guidance and advice
  • Best Practices: We can help you understand best practices
  • Troubleshooting: We can assist with troubleshooting update issues

Developer Assistance​

For complex sites or if you're not comfortable updating plugins:

  • Hire a Developer: Consider hiring a qualified WordPress developer
  • Managed Services: Some developers offer managed WordPress services
  • Plugin Support: Contact plugin developers for specific issues
  • Community Forums: Seek help from WordPress community forums

Common Update Scenarios​

Scenario 1: Security Update Available​

Action: Update immediately after backing up

  • Security updates should be applied promptly
  • Test in staging if possible
  • Monitor site after update

Scenario 2: Multiple Plugin Updates​

Action: Update one at a time

  • Update plugins individually
  • Test after each update
  • Identify any conflicts early

Scenario 3: Major Version Update​

Action: Wait and test thoroughly

  • Review update notes carefully
  • Test in staging environment
  • Plan for potential breaking changes

Scenario 4: Update Caused Issues​

Action: Rollback immediately

  • Restore from backup
  • Identify the problematic plugin
  • Contact plugin support if needed

Troubleshooting Update Issues​

Plugin Update Failed​

  • Check Permissions: Verify file permissions are correct
  • Disk Space: Ensure sufficient disk space available
  • Memory Limits: Check PHP memory limits
  • Plugin Conflicts: Deactivate conflicting plugins temporarily

Site Broken After Update​

  • Restore Backup: Immediately restore from backup
  • Identify Plugin: Determine which plugin caused the issue
  • Check Error Logs: Review error logs for specific issues
  • Contact Support: Reach out for assistance if needed

Plugin Not Updating​

  • License Issues: Verify premium plugin licenses
  • Server Issues: Check server connectivity and permissions
  • Plugin Source: Ensure using official plugin source
  • WordPress Version: Verify WordPress version compatibility

Conclusion​

While KloudBean handles server-level maintenance and security, WordPress plugin and theme updates remain your responsibility. This approach gives you control over your site's functionality while protecting you from potential issues that automatic updates might cause.

By following best practices—creating backups, testing updates, and avoiding unauthorized plugins—you can safely keep your WordPress site updated and secure.