What Is the "Another Update is In Progress" Error in WordPress?
If you are trying to update your WordPress site and see this alert saying “Another update is currently in progress,” then there is no reason to panic – your website has not crashed. This message is really just a problem that occurs quite often for users with WordPress websites and usually occurs when there is an update happening on the website.
So here is how it works. Whenever WordPress updates its core files, it provides a mechanism that locks the database for a certain period of time in order to avoid multiple updates being executed at the same time. This locking of the database is done as a preventive measure against conflicts. However, there are times when the update does not go through properly resulting in the lock being persistent. This lock situation is when you will face this error message – and this happens when you try to execute an update which is long gone.
The good news? There is a way to overcome this hurdle and it is pretty straightforward. In this article, I will explain the reasons behind the occurrence of this error and how to effectively fix it so that you can start managing and maintaining your website right away.
Let’s say you are about to perform a WordPress update that will keep your site active. You press on the update button, and instead of seeing any activity happen, you are shown the following statement:
Another update is currently in progress.
What could be happening? Did something break? Is your site frozen?
Don’t worry, this error is simply WordPress being overcautious. When an update begins, WordPress sets a lock on the database being used. This means no other updates can be run simultaneously. That’s good because it prevents anything that could damage your site from taking place. However, sometimes things do not go according to plan.
The Update is Still Running
WordPress updates have the tendency to take a while when dealing with a slow running server. If you have other things set to update while WordPress is actively running in the background, this error will occur.
The Update Got Stuck
Perhaps your internet got disconnected, your server gave out, or something else caused the process to be interrupted. WordPress was unable to remove the update lock, and because of that now it is under the impression that the update is still active, while it is in fact not.
The reason for this error could stem from issues such as ‘A Database Lock Didn’t Clear,’ which stems from a failed or interrupted update.
Most of the time, the lock in question stems from updates that were never completely executed. Attempts at new updates while the lock is in place will cause the error message to show. If the error has not corrected itself, you should consider clearing the locks manually.
“For one reason or another, the database lock has not been cleared,” It’s possible that the database setting was never deleted. This issue is relatively new for WordPress users as there has been an increase of, “another update is currently in progress,” messages touting midway updates not getting captured.
As is evident, almost each of these issues alongside failed or interrupted updates stem from partial updates wherein the processes of downloading files, modifying databases, and executing changes are left unfinished. With the lock feature, one can carry out a myriad of tasks within the system without the risk of any external interference causing corruption to already lock updates. In an ideal world, locks clear with updates completing, however users do find themselves being met with error messages.
Edit: Add issues xfailing to update a theme or plugin. WordPress locking an update and muting all functionality.
So, what should you do?
Be Patient
Give it some time especially if the update takes longer than normal. Larger updates can take a few minutes, especially on slower hosting plans.
Check If The Update Is Stuck
If the problem has not resolved itself even after waiting for 10-15 minutes, then there is a chance that the update has frozen. In this situation, you will likely have to reset the update lock, which I will define in the coming paragraphs.
In short, this error usually means WordPress is doing exactly what it’s supposed to—keeping your site safe during an update. But if it doesn’t go away, there are ways to fix it quickly.
Database lock issues
A simple core WordPress update will temporarily put your entire database under lock and key to make sure that the changes made are not disrupted by anything else running in the background. This is done to prevent multiple updates from happening in one go, which can result in a conflict or error. The database contains all the important information, including posts, updates, and settings, and requires a stable environment to make changes.
Ideally, the website will unlock the database after completing the update. However, if the server goes down or the internet speed is too slow, the update may interrupt and not finish properly put, which will result in the lock remaining enabled.
In this situation, you will realize that nothing is actively being changed on your site but the error “Another update is currently in progress” is displayed.
How to Fix It?
The simplest way to fix this problem is to directly unlock the database, step by step which I will explain in detail in the next section.
Methods to Fix the Error
Patience is Key
All updates require him, instead of instantly trying to fix the issue, the best course of action is to sit tight for the update to finish.
WordPress locks itself when updating to keep any hiccups from happening. WordPress essentially puts a “Do Not Disturb” sign while it’s working on updating itself. Once it fully upgrades, it removes this sign.
How Long Should You Wait?
In most scenarios, the task takes only between 5 to 10 minutes. A hosting server that is a tad on the sluggish side, or is dealing with significant updates, can prolong this task a little longer.
Do not fear if the “Another update is currently in progress” message is visible. WordPress is simply assuring you that it is working, so all you have to do is wait.
How to Know If The Update is Stuck?
If the message is still there after 15 minutes, the upate definitely stalled. A server stalling, dropping internet connection, or other issues can cause hitting this level.
Waiting won’t get you anywhere at this point. But there is absolutely no need to fret. Manually removing the update lock is easier than you thought, and that is what I will cover next.
Use a Plugin To Fix The Issue
For those who prefer not to go through the hassle of sifting through databases, fret not; there is an easier workaround. A plugin can easily eliminate the update lock issue with a couple of clicks.
Which Plugin Should You Use
There are multiple options that will help resolve the issue, but the easiest two are:
Fix Another Update In Progress – A super simple application that is dedicated to helping resolve this issue.
WP Reset – A more intricate feature. However, it can still delete incomplete updates.
How To Fix It Using A Plugin
- First, login to the WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Plugins > Add New.
- Look for “Fix Another Update In Progress” or “WP Reset” and search for it.
- Click Install, and then Activate.
- Look for the settings of the program, and search for an option to remove the update locks.
You are all set, the site should be functional again. You can attempt to update your WordPress and plugins or themes without worrying about any more complications.
This trick works great if you would like to resolve the problem quickly without too much effort. I’ll show you in the next section how to manually fix the problem if that is how you go about resolving issues.
Most important steps when updating WordPress
Maintaining the WordPress version is important because it ensures safety, improves performance, and adds new features. Failure to perform updates properly can lead to major issues. Here’s a summary of how to properly update WordPress, seamlessly and with no risk of damaging your website.
- Always Back Up Your Website
To make certain that there are no problems that might damage your site, always backup all files, databases, and any important documents before adding updates. In the event that issue arises, restoring your website instantly will not be an issue.
🔹 How? Plugins like UpdraftPlus and BackupBuddy work well. You can also use the backup service provided by your web host.
- Always Look For Compatibility Issues
Thesis and plugins are not always updated as per the schedule of WordPress and vice versa. Its a good idea to ensure that there is proper support in the new version for the elements that you are using before proceeding with updating.
🔹 How?
– Look for compatibility information on the WordPress plugin/theme pages.
– Determined if any updates have been issued in repsect to the products you use these plugins for.
– Look at the reviews and support threads to determine if the plugin poses any issues for anyone else.
- Order of Updating Is Important
Problems can arise when updating everything at the same time. Instead, adopt the following policy of updating ‘one at a time’ approach:
1️⃣ WordPress Core – Execute primary update first.
2️⃣ Plugins – Update each plugin at a time with a site check after each action.
3️⃣ Themes – Lastly, Update the theme that is currently active.
This will help you to pinpoint any problems if something does break.
- If Possible, Have a Staging Site.
Should your website hold significant weight such as an online shop or business website, avoid live testing the updates on the actual website. Rather, have a staging site, which is a private version of your website that allows you to make changes without them being visible to the public.
🔹 How?
Most hosting services offer staging sites such as Kinsta, Siteground, and Wp Engine.
You can also do it with Wp Staging Plugin that allows users to seamlessly create a test site.
Apply changes to the live site once you are confident everything works perfectly.
- After Applying Updates, Ensure The Cache is Cleared.
Due to caching, visitors can still see the old version despite having updated it. This is why the cache should be cleared after applying updates.
🔹 How?
Those that use caching plugins should remove the cache from the tools option.
For hosts that have server caching, clear the cache from the hosting panel.
- Don’t Stop Checking Your Website After The Updates Have Been Done
Assuming everything is fine after completing the updates is a big mistake. Take the time to regularly check your site in its entirety.
🔹 What to check?
Go through the main pages and check that important features, such as forms, checkout systems, […] are working.
Give your WordPress dashboard a thorough scan and try to find any issues.
If the website is broken, begin again with the previously saved backup and check if it functions prior to attempting to troubleshoot again.
- Automatic Updates Can Be Problematic.
While WordPress does permit automated updates for things like minor security problems, which is a beneficial feature, it’s safer to do these major updates manually to avoid problems with the website.
🔹 What’s the best way to do it?
Manually updated major versions after they have been tested on a staging site, but automatic minor security updates should be enabled.
Must-Have Backup Before Updates
Create a backup of the site before the update takes place. Updates are sometimes known to malfunction and by creating this backup, one can always get things back to normal if needed.
How to Backup?
For simple and fast backups get a plugin:
Free version of UpdraftPlus works just perfectly.
BackupBuddy is ideal due to its cloud storage features.
For automatic backups daily, use Jetpack Backup.
Do not forget to check the hosting panel as many hosting service providers tend to offer backups.
What Files Should Be Backed Up?
✔️ Everything on the website: Themes, applicable plugins, and the media.
✔️ Settings, added content and user data in the database.
When to Take Backups?
✅ Prior to updating a plugin or adding new features
✅ On the daily or weekly basis for websites that are active.
✅ Before drastic adjustments like new themes, plugins etc.
Conclusion
Encountering ‘Another update is currently in progress’ can be quite annoying, but it shouldn’t be cause for concern. In the majority of cases, WordPress is genuinely trying to protect your site. Regardless, if the problem persists for too long, there are ways for you to take care of it – through plugins, awaiting, or manually clearing the database.
Ensure that your site is backed up frequently, check sequential updates, and address compatibility problems to avoid unnecessary issues in the future. You can also test the updates on a staging site before applying them live to be extra cautious.
A little bit of thought goes a long way in helping you maintain your WordPress site. So, the next time the updates encounter an issue, you will be prepared with no errors and no stress.
