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How to Install or Update

To install a plugin for the first time, go to Plugins, click on Add New, and then click on Upload Plugin. Choose and upload the .zip file. Install and Activate. That’s it!

To update, it is crucial to follow the steps below to prevent data loss. Key rule: Never delete one of my plugins from your WordPress dashboard unless you want the associated plugin data deleted.

If you downloaded one of my plugins prior to June 21, 2025, first make sure that the existing main plugin folder does not have a version number at the end. To be clear, I am not talking about the zip file name. I am talking about the main folder currently in the plugins folder of your WordPress installation. (plugin-folder-name ✅ good | plugin-folder-name-1.3.2 ❌ bad)

Do you understand the above notes? If yes, proceed with the following steps to update:

  1. Backup your Database and Website
  2. Deactivate the Plugin
    In your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins and click Deactivate for the plugin you intend to update. DO NOT DELETE/UNINSTALL
  3. Upload the New Version
    There are two primary methods to upload the updated plugin:
    • Via FTP:
      • Connect to your website using an FTP client (like FileZilla).
      • Navigate to the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.
      • Replace the existing plugin folder with the new version.
    • Via WordPress Dashboard:
      • Go to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin.
      • Upload the new plugin .zip file.
      • WordPress will prompt: “This plugin is already installed. Replace current with uploaded?” → Click Replace.
        • If you do not see the replace plugin page, STOP! You now have duplicate plugins. Not a big deal, but, do not do any deleting of duplicates from the WordPress admin dashboard. You will need to delete the outdated version now via FTP or your web host. If you delete via the WordPress dashboard, associated plugin data may be deleted as well.
  4. Reactivate the Plugin
    After the above steps are complete, click Activate under the plugin on the plugins page to reactivate the plugin.

Important Considerations:

  • Do Not Delete the Plugin: Avoid deleting the plugin via the WordPress dashboard, as this action may trigger the uninstall routine, potentially removing plugin data.
  • Data Preservation: As long as the plugin’s uninstall routine is only invoked upon deletion (not deactivation), your settings and data will remain intact during this update process.
  • Backup Recommendation: Before performing manual updates, it’s advisable to back up your website to prevent potential data loss.
Billy Wilcosky