3 Things to Consider Before Upgrading to WordPress 2.8

WordPress version 2.8 was released to the public today!  Although the 2.8 version boasts a robust list of new features & improvements (including theme, widget & speed enhancements, as well as fixing 790 bugs present in version 2.7), the following are things to consider before you choose to update your WordPress software:

1. Plugin Compatibility

This is the single most important element to consider before updating your software. If your plugins aren’t compatible with the newest version of WordPress, you risk crashing your entire blog site! WordPress has provided a list of plugins that have been tested for compatibility with version 2.8, however, there is a good chance that you will have one or more plugins installed that have not yet been updated for compatibility.

• First, check your list of activated plugins against the WordPress 2.8 Plugin Compatibility List
• If you are currently using a plugin that is not compatible, contact the plugin author/plugin website for information on compatibility updates and wait before updating to the latest version of WordPress, if the plugin plays an important role in the functionality of your blog.

2. Theme Compatibility

Once you have your plugins squared away, you may check your theme’s compatibility with the WordPress 2.8 Theme Compatibility List. Most likely, your theme will be compatible, however, there are certain functions that can be disrupted by a software update, so it’s best to ensure compatibility prior to installing the latest version of WordPress.

• Check your theme’s compatibility with the WordPress 2.8 Theme Compatibility List
• If your theme is listed as being compatible, you are safe to update your software.
• If your theme is not on the list, visit your theme’s website for information on compatibility updates and delay your software update until you have been informed that your theme will work properly with the newest version of WordPress.

3. Time of Day to Update Your Software

Since upgrading your WordPress software requires you to deactivate all plugins during the update process, the operation of your blog site may be disrupted. Taking this into consideration, you will want to make sure that you schedule your software update when incoming traffic is at a low point.

To Upgrade or Not to Upgrade?

It is important, mostly for security reasons, to keep your WordPress software up-to-date. Unfortunately, this process can seem somewhat over-simplified now that WordPress has created a one-click upgrade within your Admin panel.  It is important for users  to know that there is a lot to consider before choosing to click on the ‘Please update now’ link.  Following the steps I’ve presented can help you avoid crashes, site disruptions and frantic S.O.S. calls to your webmaster.

If you have any questions or would like to add anything to the information I’ve offered in this post, please leave a comment below!

Happy upgrading!