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Keeping your WordPress website running smoothly depends on timely plugin updates. However, sometimes updates fail — leaving your site vulnerable or broken. Don’t panic! This guide will walk you through the easiest and safest way to fix plugin update failures by manually updating via FTP. Whether you are a beginner or a web developer, this tutorial will help you fix update issues like a pro.
Why Plugin Updates Fail in WordPress
Before jumping to the solution, it’s important to understand why plugin updates fail. Here are some common reasons:
- Insufficient file permissions: Your hosting server might not allow automatic file modifications.
- Corrupted plugin files: Interrupted downloads or network issues can corrupt files during the update process.
- Limited server resources: Shared hosting or low memory limits often cause incomplete updates.
- Conflict with another plugin or theme: Sometimes, another plugin interferes with the update process.
- Outdated WordPress version: Compatibility issues can arise if WordPress itself is not updated.
Understanding the root cause helps you prevent future failures and keep your website stable and secure.
How to Fix Plugin Update Failures Manually (Using FTP)
When automatic updates fail, the best and most reliable method is a manual update using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). This process involves connecting to your website files via an FTP client like FileZilla and replacing the old plugin files with the latest version.
Step 1: Backup Your Website
Before making any changes, always back up your website. You can use a plugin like UpdraftPlus or All-in-One WP Migration to quickly create a backup. This ensures that if anything goes wrong, you can restore your site safely.
Step 2: Download the Latest Plugin Version
Go to the official plugin page on the WordPress Plugin Directory or the developer’s website and download the latest ZIP file of the plugin you want to update.
Step 3: Extract the ZIP File
Once the file is downloaded, extract it to your computer. You will now have a folder containing the updated plugin files.
Step 4: Connect to Your Website via FTP
Use an FTP client such as FileZilla, Cyberduck, or WinSCP to connect to your web hosting server. You will need the following details, usually found in your hosting account:
- FTP Host (often looks like ftp.yourdomain.com)
- Username
- Password
- Port (usually 21)
Once connected, navigate to the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.
Step 5: Deactivate the Plugin from WordPress Dashboard
Before replacing the plugin files, go to your WordPress dashboard → Plugins → Installed Plugins, and deactivate the plugin you are about to update. This prevents file conflicts during the process.
Step 6: Delete the Old Plugin Folder
Inside your FTP client, locate the folder of the plugin (for example, /wp-content/plugins/contact-form-7/) and delete it. Don’t worry — you’re not deleting settings or data; you’re just removing the outdated files.
Step 7: Upload the New Plugin Folder
Now upload the new, extracted plugin folder (from Step 3) to the same location: /wp-content/plugins/. Wait for the upload to complete. Make sure all files are successfully transferred without interruption.
Step 8: Reactivate the Plugin
Go back to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins → Installed Plugins, and click Activate for your updated plugin. Congratulations — your plugin is now successfully updated!
Step 9: Clear Cache and Test Your Website
After updating, clear your browser and website cache (if you use caching plugins like W3 Total Cache or WP Rocket). Then, test your site to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Bonus: Tips to Prevent Future Plugin Update Issues
- Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated regularly.
- Use quality hosting: Reliable hosting ensures fewer file permission and timeout issues.
- Limit unnecessary plugins: Avoid using too many plugins that might conflict with each other.
- Check plugin compatibility: Before updating, read changelogs and confirm the plugin is compatible with your WordPress version.
- Use a staging site: Test updates on a staging site before applying them to your live website.
When to Contact Professional Help
If your site still shows errors or fails to update even after manual upload, it’s best to consult an expert. Sometimes, deep file permission issues or corrupted databases may require professional attention.
You can contact Next Level Design Agency for complete WordPress maintenance and troubleshooting services. Their team specializes in plugin error fixing, theme optimization, and secure updates for all WordPress sites.
Conclusion
Fixing plugin update failures manually through FTP is a reliable and effective method every WordPress site owner should know. It not only helps you regain control over your website but also strengthens your understanding of WordPress file structure and management. With regular backups, careful updates, and professional support when needed, you can keep your website performing at its best.
Need help with your website maintenance or plugin issues? Contact Next Level Design Agency today — we’re here to take your website performance to the next level.
Written by Next Level Design Agency – Expert WordPress, Web Design & Digital Marketing Services.
