Do I need to update my WordPress theme?
Upgrading your website’s theme to the latest version is highly recommended, not only because it ensures you have all the latest features, but you’ll also be up-to-date with any security patches. There are many ways to upgrade a WordPress theme.
Do you need to update a child theme?
A child theme’s version doesn’t need to change. You can change it yourself if you want to keep track of it. Otherwise it’s just a nice place to keep your own changes and customizations. The main theme version is what matters.
How do I update my WordPress theme to the latest version?
Here’s how to update your theme in WordPress:
- If your theme has no customizations, go to: Appearance > Themes > click “Update Now” on your active theme.
- If your theme features custom code, updating it with the latest versions will overwrite all your customizations. To safely update a customized theme, use a child theme.
Is it safe to update the default WordPress themes?
New versions of WordPress are released regularly often accompanied by updates to the core default WordPress themes (the themes that come with WordPress such as Twenty Seventeen). Immediately following a new release, clients often ask me if it is safe to update the default WordPress themes.
Can a third party update a WordPress theme?
If you’re using WordPress themes downloaded from a third-party website, make sure you follow their instructions for updates.
How does the theme customizer work in WordPress?
The theme customizer allows you to modify your WordPress theme and store all changes in the WordPress database. You can change the header image, colors, layout, custom CSS, and more. Your WordPress widgets and navigation menus are also not affected by the theme updates.
Where can I download the latest WordPress theme?
Simply visit your theme’s website and download the latest version to your computer. Locate the theme’s zip file and extract it. You should now have both, the new version and your old customized theme on your computer.