How to Disable Automatic WordPress Updates

Disabling updates in WordPress can be necessary for various reasons, such as ensuring compatibility with custom themes or plugins, or simply maintaining control over the update process. There are multiple methods to achieve this, including modifying the wp-config.php file and configuring settings in WordPress Manager through cPanel. This article will guide you through both methods step-by-step.

Method 1: Disabling Updates via wp-config.php

The wp-config.php file is a core WordPress configuration file located in the root directory of your WordPress installation. By adding specific constants to this file, you can disable various types of updates.

Reference WordPress Developer Resources – wp-config.php

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Access Your WordPress Files:
    • Log in to your web hosting control panel (e.g., cPanel).
    • Navigate to the File Manager.
    • Locate and open the directory where your WordPress is installed (usually in the public_html directory).
  2. Edit the wp-config.php File:
    • Find the wp-config.php file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
    • Right-click on the wp-config.php file and select “Edit.”
  3. Add the Constants to Disable Updates:
    • Insert one of the following lines of code into your wp-config.php file, ideally before the line that says /* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */.

      Setting AUTOMATIC_UPDATER_DISABLED to true disables all automatic updates:

           // Disable all automatic updates
     define('AUTOMATIC_UPDATER_DISABLED', true);

    Setting WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE to gives you granular control core updates (minor, major and development releases). This constant can be defined as any of the following:

    # Disable all core updates:
define( 'WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE', false );

# Enable all core updates, including minor and major:
define( 'WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE', true );

# Enable core updates for minor releases (default):
define( 'WP_AUTO_UPDATE_CORE', 'minor' );

  4. Save the Changes:

    • Save the changes to the wp-config.php file.
    • Close the file editor.

By following these steps, you have successfully disabled automatic updates for WordPress core, plugins, and themes through the wp-config.php file.

Method 2: Disabling Updates via WordPress Manager in cPanel

WordPress Manager provides an easy way to manage your WordPress installation, including the ability to disable updates.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Log in to cPanel:
    • Access your cPanel account by entering your cPanel username and password. Alternatively login using Ecenica Dashboard > My Services.
  2. Open WordPress Manager:
    • In the cPanel dashboard, locate the “Software” section.
    • Click on the WordPress Manager icon to open it.
  3. Manage WordPress Installation:
    • In WordPress Manager, find your WordPress installation in the list and click on the arrow next to it.
  4. Disable Automatic Updates:
    • In the “Configuration” section you should see several options for automatic updates:
      • Auto Upgrade WordPress Core: Select the upgrade preference.
      • Auto Upgrade WordPress Plugins: Uncheck this option to disable plugin updates.
      • Auto Upgrade WordPress Themes: Uncheck this option to disable theme updates.
  5. Details will save automatically.

By following these steps, you have successfully disabled automatic updates for WordPress core, plugins, and themes via WordPress Manager in cPanel.

Conclusion

Disabling updates in WordPress can be easily achieved by modifying the wp-config.php file or configuring settings in WordPress Manager via cPanel. These methods ensure that you maintain control over when and how updates are applied to your WordPress site, helping you avoid potential compatibility issues or disruptions.

Always remember to keep your site secure by manually updating WordPress, plugins, and themes when you are ready and have ensured compatibility with your site’s customizations.