# Updating WordPress

It is important to keep WordPress up to date, to ensure that you always have the latest features and security measures.

This article assumes that you already have a hosting account with Gilect and know how to access the CPanel, and that WordPress was installed through Softaculous. If WordPress was not installed via Softaculous, you can always scan for existing installations and import them to Softaculous via the WordPress manager.

{% content-ref url="/pages/h06fIqfEfqH0kKt9Cp4z" %}
[How To Install WordPress](/wordpress/how-to-install-wordpress.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## How to update WordPress

WordPress is best updated via the WordPress manager at Softaculous.

### Accessing the WordPress manager

The WordPress manager can be accessed via Softaculous. Softaculous can be accessed from the "Software" section of the CPanel.

![](/files/rXPGsngA4Z6bymiAuvq3)

Afterward, you can select the WordPress manager in WordPress, which is the WordPress button in the top right:

![](/files/bT5oE2eeqx03Knu860aw)

### Updating WordPress

If an update for WordPress is available, an "Updates Available" button will show. You can press the button to show more options.

![](/files/h4ExAvrNGnGkUm5Bj3Je)

Press the "Upgrade Now" button. 

![](/files/FeUjdvj3KgU933zkuM8t)

It is always recommended to take a backup before updating anything, in the event that something fails and your website breaks. You can easily backup WordPress by ticking the "Create Backup" checkbox.

Afterward, press the "Upgrade" button, and WordPress will begin updating. No further action is required by you.

![](/files/MFuAwsBpLtWNkXIH1fqO)

![](/files/15lNX2a4aW0LkBBi5d3V)

{% hint style="success" %}
Congratulations, WordPress has been updated.
{% endhint %}

### Why can't I update from the wp-admin dashboard?

It is possible to update directly from wp-admin, however it is not recommended. Using Softaculous to update has higher chances of success, and also allows you to create backups.

## Updating Plugins and Themes

It is important to keep plugins and themes up to date, to ensure that you always have the latest features and security measures.

You can update plugins and themes through the WordPress Manager.

![](/files/zcRmWxTPhpoxrMaTkEiD)


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