The WordPress application, themes, and plugins are constantly updated to include additional features, security updates, etc.

Therefore, WordPress users should always make sure to update their website software whenever new versions are released.

Update WordPress application

1. You should make a backup of your WordPress website before proceeding with the update.

This post can help you back up your website.

This will protect your website files in the event that there is a problem with the update.

2. For WordPress application updates, you should receive a notification of a new update on your dashboard.

Click on Please update now.

Screenshot of notification of an update
Screenshot of notification of an update

3. You will be taken to the updates page where you can update all your website software – WordPress application, free plugins, and free themes.

Click on Update to version xxx (In this case 6.1)

Screenshot of WordPress updates page
Screenshot of WordPress updates page

4. That would be all, your WordPress application has now been updated.

Screenshot of Updated WordPress application
Screenshot of Updated WordPress application

Update free WordPress themes

On the left menu of the WordPress dashboard, scroll to Appearance and click on Themes.

You should now see all your themes.

Those with an update will have a top bar notification of the available latest version.

Click on the Update Now link.

The theme would then be updated.

Screenshot of a free theme update
Screenshot of a free theme update

Update free WordPress plugins

On the left menu of the WordPress dashboard, scroll to Plugins and click on Installed Plugins.

You should now see all your plugins.

Look for any with a light yellow notification bar attached and click on update now.

The plugin would then be updated.