If you’ve ever encountered the frustrating “Another update is currently in progress” message in WordPress, you’re not alone. This message can appear while attempting to update WordPress or install a new plugin or theme. Typically, this issue is caused by a temporary lock placed by WordPress to prevent multiple updates from happening simultaneously. However, if this lock doesn’t automatically clear after an update, it can prevent you from making further updates. In this article, we are going to cover How To Fix wordpress another update is currently in progress?.

Why the “Another Update is Currently in Progress” Error Occurs

When WordPress updates, it places a lock in the database to prevent any other updates from running at the same time. Normally, this lock clears itself within 15 minutes. However, if something goes wrong — such as an incomplete or failed update — this lock may persist, leading to the “Another update is currently in progress” message.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the Issue

Below, we’ll look at the easiest and most effective ways to resolve this problem.

1. Wait for the Lock to Clear Automatically

If you have time to spare, the simplest approach is to wait 15-20 minutes. In many cases, WordPress will automatically release the lock, allowing you to proceed with updates. However, if waiting doesn’t resolve the issue, you can try one of the methods below.

2. Clear the Update Lock Using phpMyAdmin

This method requires accessing your site’s database using phpMyAdmin, which is available through most hosting providers. Be cautious, as making incorrect changes in the database can affect your site’s functionality. Here’s how to safely clear the update lock:

1. Log into your Hosting Control Panel
   Access phpMyAdmin through your hosting dashboard. Hosts like Bluehost, SiteGround, and GoDaddy provide easy access to phpMyAdmin.
2. Find Your WordPress Database
   In phpMyAdmin, locate your site’s database. It should be named similarly to your website or have “wp” as part of the name.
3. Open the wp_options Table
   Find the table labeled wp_options. If your WordPress database has a different prefix, it may look like xyz_options instead.
4. Search for Core Update Lock
   Use the search function to locate an entry called core_updater.lock. This is the entry WordPress created to prevent simultaneous updates.
5. Delete the core_updater.lock Row
   Select this row and delete it. This action clears the update lock, allowing you to resume updates in WordPress.
6. Return to Your WordPress Dashboard
   After deleting the lock, go back to your WordPress dashboard. The “Another update is currently in progress” message should be gone, and you can proceed with updates.

3. Use a Plugin to Fix the Error

For users who prefer a more user-friendly solution, several plugins can help resolve this issue without diving into phpMyAdmin.

1. Install the “Fix Another Update in Progress” Plugin
   Go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins > Add New, and search for the “Fix Another Update in Progress” plugin.
2. Activate the Plugin and Run It
   After installation, activate the plugin. This tool will automatically clear the update lock from your database.
3. Check Your Dashboard
   Once the plugin clears the lock, you should be able to update WordPress without seeing the error message.

Read more – 12 Best WordPress Backup and Migration Plugin

Tips to Prevent the “Another Update is Currently in Progress” Error in the Future

To avoid encountering this issue again, consider these best practices:

• Schedule Updates During Off-Peak Hours: By performing updates when your site has low traffic, you reduce the risk of timeouts that could lead to update issues.
• Use Reliable Hosting: A robust hosting provider will provide better server performance, which can reduce the likelihood of update errors.
• Update Plugins and Themes Regularly: Keeping your plugins and themes up-to-date will help prevent compatibility issues and reduce the chance of an update getting stuck.

• Related article – How to Fix Error Establishing a Database Connection in WordPress

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the “Another update is currently in progress” error mean in WordPress?

This error means that WordPress is preventing another update process from starting because a previous update hasn’t completed yet. It’s a protective measure to avoid conflicts during updates.

How long does the update lock typically last in WordPress?

The lock should clear automatically within 15 minutes. If it doesn’t, you may need to manually delete the lock via phpMyAdmin.

Can I fix the update lock error without accessing phpMyAdmin?

Yes, using a plugin like “Fix Another Update in Progress” can resolve the issue without needing access to phpMyAdmin.

Is it safe to delete the core_updater.lock row from the database?

Yes, deleting the core_updater.lock entry is safe. This action only removes the temporary lock and won’t affect other database entries.

Will clearing the update lock delete any of my website data?

No, clearing the lock will not affect your website’s data or settings. It only removes a temporary update restriction.

What causes the update process to get stuck?

A failed update due to a timeout, server issue, or conflict with other plugins or themes can cause the update process to get stuck.

Can I avoid this error in the future?

Regular updates, reliable hosting, and monitoring your site for plugin conflicts can help reduce the likelihood of encountering this issue.

How do I access phpMyAdmin?

You can access phpMyAdmin from your hosting control panel. Most hosting providers offer it as a standard feature for managing your database.

Are there risks associated with clearing the update lock?

Clearing the lock using phpMyAdmin or a plugin is generally safe. However, always back up your site before making changes to the database.

What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?

If the issue persists, contact your hosting provider for further assistance, as there may be a server-side problem affecting your updates.

Encountering the “Another update is currently in progress” error in WordPress can be frustrating, but with these steps, you should be able to clear the issue and proceed with updates smoothly. Remember, WordPress places this lock to protect your site, so always allow a few minutes before trying to fix it manually. If you’re uncomfortable making database changes, plugins provide a safe alternative to clear the update lock. Regular updates, reliable hosting, and good maintenance practices can help you prevent this issue from occurring in the future, ensuring a smooth WordPress experience.