Updating without checks? It’s a disaster waiting to happen!
For all clients on our managed WordPress hosting, we recommend Blaze managed WordPress software updates to ensure the highest security standards are maintained.
However it’s not as simple as just clicking “Update All”, let’s explain…
The hidden steps of software updates
Backups: Before applying any WordPress, plugin, or theme updates, we take a complete backup of your site. So if an update ever breaks something, we can swiftly restore it to a stable version and get you back online without delay.
PHP configuration: Plugin updates often introduce a minimum (and maximum) PHP version so we are always checking that we are running on the latest PHP version possible. This enhances the security of the website while also improving the website’s performance.
Schedules: We’ve found that clients managing their own sites often update them only when they remember, which can be infrequent, as understandably, running a business takes priority. We carry out scheduled, frequent software updates to keep the site secure, see more below on why this is so important.
Site checks: Many plugins and themes and even WordPress itself provides new features which are great. However, they can sometimes introduce bugs or change the way an existing feature works, which is not so great when you have spent ages working with us to get the feature working exactly how you need. See below more on site checks.
Why are scheduled WordPress, plugin and theme updates great for your website?
Frequent software updates continually bolster your defences by patching vulnerabilities and protecting against emerging threats, ensuring your website remains as secure as possible.
Regular updates also optimise performance and reliability by fixing bugs and glitches, streamlining processes and delivering fresh features that keep your website up to date and running smoothly.
Furthermore, regular updates maintain compatibility with other plugins and WordPress itself.
Site checks are so important
First thing first, does the website look as it should to website visitors? The frontend is always the most important.
Secondly, are the vital functions of the website working? Very often, the team member who developed the site is the one responsible for the ongoing maintenance so they can make sure that key features of the site function as you intended. Imagine if your contact form stopped working and the impact that could have!
Finally, does the admin area work as it should? Are pages, posts, media etc. all okay to edit?
Addressing vulnerabilities ASAP
Whilst regularly scheduled software updates are very important, addressing vulnerabilities as they are identified is vital. We use industry recognised solutions to receive WordPress, Plugins and Themes vulnerability alerts so we can apply urgent fixes ASAP. These alerts also come with vital information like the type of vulnerability and CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) score etc.
Software updates are outright essential for ecommerce
Frequent software updates are vital for ecommerce sites to safeguard sensitive customer data and payment information. By promptly applying patches and security enhancements, newly discovered vulnerabilities that cyber‑criminals might exploit are closed off, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches and fraud.
Regular updates also ensure that your platform remains fully compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which mandates stringent controls over how cardholder data is processed, stored and transmitted. Falling behind on updates can lead to non‑compliance, with the possibility of hefty fines or even the suspension of your ability to accept card payments.
Not getting the support you need?
Do you feel like you don’t get the website maintenance support you need from your existing WordPress hosting supplier? With over two decades of experience looking after client websites, maybe we can help you keep your website up to date and secure too. Get in touch!
