How to Fix Theme Update Fails – Increase Upload Size Limit & Update via FTP (Complete Guide)

Why Do Theme Updates Fail in WordPress?

Updating your WordPress theme is essential for security, compatibility, and access to new features. However, many users face the dreaded “Theme Update Failed” error. Common reasons include:

• Upload file size limit is too small on the hosting server.
• Incorrect theme package format or corrupted file.
• Insufficient server memory or execution time.
• Permission errors while writing to the theme directory.

If your WordPress dashboard refuses to update the theme, don’t worry — you can solve it by increasing the upload limit or updating the theme manually via FTP.

Method 1: Increase Upload Size Limit

Most theme update issues happen because the uploaded file exceeds your hosting’s PHP upload limit. Here’s how to increase it:

Option 1: Edit php.ini File

upload_max_filesize = 256M
post_max_size = 256M
memory_limit = 512M
max_execution_time = 300
    

Save changes and restart your server if needed. This allows larger theme files to upload smoothly.

Option 2: Modify .htaccess

php_value upload_max_filesize 256M
php_value post_max_size 256M
php_value memory_limit 512M
php_value max_execution_time 300
php_value max_input_time 300
    

Place this code at the bottom of your .htaccess file. It increases PHP limits directly from the server configuration.

Option 3: Update wp-config.php

Add the following line before the line that says /* That's all, stop editing! */:

define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '512M');
    

Once limits are increased, try updating the theme again from your WordPress dashboard.

Method 2: Update Theme via FTP (Manual Method)

If increasing the upload size doesn’t solve the issue, you can manually update your theme using an FTP client like FileZilla. This method works 100% of the time and bypasses WordPress restrictions.

Step-by-Step FTP Update Guide

1. Download the latest theme version: Get the theme ZIP file from the developer or marketplace (ThemeForest, TemplateMonster, etc.).
2. Extract the ZIP file: Unzip the file on your computer to reveal the theme folder.
3. Connect to your server via FTP: Use FileZilla or another FTP client. Enter your host, username, password, and port.
4. Navigate to the themes directory: Go to /wp-content/themes/ inside your WordPress installation.
5. Backup your existing theme: Download the old theme folder to your local computer in case you want to roll back.
6. Upload the new theme: Drag and drop the updated theme folder into the themes directory. Choose “Overwrite” when prompted.
7. Activate the theme: Log in to WordPress, go to Appearance > Themes, and activate the updated theme.

This method guarantees that the theme files are replaced correctly, ensuring a smooth update.

Best Practices for Theme Updates

• Always back up your site before updating.
• Update WordPress and plugins before updating the theme.
• Use a child theme to prevent losing customizations.
• Check theme documentation for update instructions.
• Use reliable hosting with sufficient PHP resources.

Following these tips will help you avoid common theme update errors in the future.

When to Seek Professional Help?

If you’ve tried everything and your theme still fails to update, it may be time to consult professionals. Agencies like Next Level Design Agency specialize in WordPress theme development, updates, and troubleshooting. Getting expert support ensures your website runs smoothly without downtime.

Conclusion

Theme update fails are frustrating but completely fixable. By increasing your upload size limit or manually updating via FTP, you can easily resolve the issue. Always remember to back up your site and follow best practices before making any changes.

Need expert WordPress help? Visit Next Level Design Agency for professional website solutions, theme customization, and ongoing support.