How can I disable WordPress plugin updates?

Cover Image for How can I disable WordPress plugin updates?
Matheus Mello
Matheus Mello
published a few days ago. updated a few hours ago

How to Disable WordPress Plugin Updates: A Complete Guide

So, you found this amazing WordPress plugin under the GPLv2 license, made some awesome tweaks to the source code, and now the plugin does something totally different. You've modified the author credits, the URL, and even the version number, but there's just one pesky problem - whenever WordPress checks for plugin updates, it treats your version as the original and prompts you with an update notification. 😱

Fear not, dear reader! We're here to help you disable those annoying plugin updates and maintain your custom version. Whether you've made significant changes to the code or you simply want to avoid plugin conflicts, we've got you covered with some easy solutions. Let's dive in and fix this issue once and for all! 💪💻

Solution 1: Rename the Plugin's Main File

One simple way to disable plugin updates is to rename the main file of your modified plugin. By doing so, WordPress won't recognize it as the original plugin and will stop notifying you about updates. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Access your WordPress installation via FTP or the File Manager provided by your web hosting provider.

  2. Navigate to the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.

  3. Look for the folder that contains your modified plugin. It usually has the same name as the original plugin.

  4. Inside this folder, you'll find the main plugin file. It typically has the same name as the folder itself or something similar.

  5. Rename the plugin's main file to something different, but ensure it keeps the .php extension.

  6. Refresh your WordPress admin dashboard, and voila! No more update notifications.

Solution 2: Remove the Plugin Update Hook

WordPress uses an update hook to check for plugin updates. By removing or disabling this hook, you can effectively disable the update notifications for your modified plugin. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Again, access your WordPress installation via FTP or the File Manager.

  2. Locate the folder of your modified plugin in the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.

  3. Inside the plugin's folder, find the main plugin file.

  4. Open the file using a plain text editor or a code editor of your choice.

  5. Look for a line of code that begins with add_action('plugins_update_check'.

  6. Comment out or delete this line of code.

  7. Save the changes and re-upload the modified plugin file.

  8. Celebrate! Your plugin updates will no longer haunt you.

Solution 3: Make Use of a Plugin

If you'd rather not modify the plugin file directly, you can use an additional plugin to disable all plugin updates globally. This method is especially useful if you have multiple plugins to manage. Here's what you can do:

  1. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.

  2. Go to the "Plugins" section and click on "Add New."

  3. Search for a plugin called "Disable All WordPress Updates" or a similar one.

  4. Install and activate the plugin.

  5. Once activated, the plugin will automatically disable all updates for plugins.

  6. Keep in mind that this will also disable updates for other plugins, so use it with caution.

Take Ownership of Your WordPress Experience! 🚀

Now that you have some handy solutions to disable WordPress plugin updates, you can fully embrace your modified masterpiece without any interruptions. Remember, customizing plugins can be a lot of fun, but it's essential to understand the potential risks and ensure compatibility with future WordPress updates. Make sure to test thoroughly and keep backups of your modified plugins to avoid any unexpected surprises.

Feel free to share your experiences with modifying WordPress plugins in the comments below. Have you encountered any challenges or found other clever solutions? Let's start a discussion, exchange ideas, and help fellow WordPress enthusiasts on this exciting journey! 🌟🗣️


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