Ever wondered which version of WordPress your site is running? Whether you’re troubleshooting a bug, considering an update, or installing a plugin, knowing your WordPress version is essential for keeping your website secure and running smoothly.
In this article, we’ll walk you through simple ways to check your WordPress version. You’ll get clear steps and helpful tips, so you can confidently manage your site, no matter your experience level. Let’s get started!
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How to Check Your WordPress Version: The Complete Guide
If you run a WordPress website, knowing which version you’re using is critical for security, compatibility, and troubleshooting. Understanding your WordPress version can help you avoid plugin conflicts, keep your site safe, and access the latest features.
Let’s dive into the simplest and most effective methods to check your WordPress version—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned site administrator.
Why Should You Check Your WordPress Version?
Before exploring the methods, let’s clarify why knowing your WordPress version matters:
- Security: Older WordPress versions may have vulnerabilities. Updates often include important security patches.
- Plugin and Theme Compatibility: Plugins or themes may require a certain WordPress version to function correctly.
- Support and Troubleshooting: Many support issues depend on your installed version.
Regularly checking and updating your WordPress version is key for safe and smooth site operations.
Four Easy Methods to Check Your WordPress Version
There are multiple ways to find your WordPress version. Below we’ll cover the four most reliable and beginner-friendly methods.
1. Checking via the WordPress Admin Dashboard
Steps:
-
Log in to Your WordPress Admin Panel:
Access your site atyourwebsite.com/wp-admin. -
Navigate to the Dashboard Home:
On the left menu, click on “Dashboard,” then “Home.” -
Locate the ‘At a Glance’ or ‘Welcome’ Box:
On the main page, you’ll find a section called “At a Glance.”
The WordPress version is usually displayed here (e.g., “WordPress 6.2.2”).
Benefits:
- Quick and user-friendly.
- No technical knowledge required.
Tips:
- If you can’t find the version number here, look for the “Footer” at the bottom right of your dashboard, where the version is often listed.
2. Viewing Your WordPress Version in the Page Source Code
If you don’t have admin access but want to check someone else’s website or your own publicly, the page source code can help.
Steps:
- Open the Website in Your Browser.
-
Right-Click and Select ‘View Page Source’:
This option may be called “View Source” or similar, depending on your browser. -
Search for ‘generator’ Tag (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F):
Type “generator” into the search box.
If visible, you’ll see a meta tag like this:
“
Benefits:
- No login required.
- Quick, especially for sites you don’t own.
Challenges:
- Some site owners remove or hide the generator tag for security reasons.
- May not always be present.
3. Checking the Version in the ‘readme.html’ File
By default, every WordPress installation includes a readme.html file, which displays the version.
Steps:
- Go to
yourwebsite.com/readme.htmlin your browser. - Look for the Version Number on the Page.
You’ll typically see something like “Welcome to WordPress 6.2.2.”
Benefits:
- Very easy and requires only a web browser.
Challenges:
- Some site owners remove this file for security, so it might not always work.
4. Finding the Version in Source Files (For Advanced Users)
If you have FTP, SFTP, or file manager access to your website’s files, you can check the version directly.
Steps:
- Access Your Site via FTP or File Manager.
- Browse to the ‘wp-includes’ Folder.
- Open the ‘version.php’ File.
- Look for the Line:
$wp_version = '6.2.2';
This is the most reliable and hardest-to-hide method.
Benefits:
- Accurate regardless of security settings or theme adjustments.
Challenges:
- Requires FTP/File Manager access and some technical ability.
Comparing the Methods
| Method | Admin Required? | Easy for Beginners | Always Reliable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admin Dashboard | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Source Code (generator tag) | No | Yes | Sometimes |
| readme.html File | No | Yes | Sometimes |
| version.php File (FTP) | Yes | Moderate | Always |
Additional Tips and Best Practices
-
Always Keep WordPress Updated:
Newer versions fix bugs, security holes, and improve site performance. -
Hide Version Information for Security:
If you manage your own site, consider removing thegeneratortag and thereadme.htmlfile. This prevents attackers from targeting known vulnerabilities in specific versions. -
Check Version Before Major Changes:
Before installing major plugins or themes, verify your WordPress version to avoid incompatibility. -
Backup Before Updating:
Always back up your site before updating WordPress, especially if you’re several versions behind. -
Test Updates on a Staging Site:
If possible, maintain a copy of your website in a safe “staging” environment to test updates and avoid unexpected downtime.
Cost Tips
- No Extra Cost to Check Your Version:
All the above methods are free for any website owner or user. - Avoid Paid Plugins:
Checking your WordPress version never requires a paid service or plugin. - Web Hosting Tools:
Some premium hosts offer visual tools or one-click updates, but checking the version itself is always cost-free.
Practical Advice
- If you have a large team, teach everyone where to find the WordPress version.
- Make checking your version a regular habit—especially if you don’t log in often.
- For agencies and freelancers, verify versions for all your client sites to keep them secure.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check your WordPress version is essential for running a secure, efficient site. Whether you’re troubleshooting, updating, or maintaining compatibility, this small bit of knowledge goes a long way. The methods above let you quickly discover your current version, whether you’re an admin or just a curious visitor.
Always keep your site updated, stay vigilant about site security, and make it a point to check your WordPress version regularly. This simple practice can save you from security threats, plugin headaches, and unexpected downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I check my WordPress version if I can’t log in to the dashboard?
You can try viewing the site’s page source code and looking for the “generator” meta tag. Alternatively, access yourwebsite.com/readme.html. If you have FTP or file manager access, check the version.php file in the wp-includes folder.
2. Why is it important to know my WordPress version?
Knowing your WordPress version helps you ensure that your themes and plugins are compatible, allows you to follow the right support advice, and keeps your site secure by making you aware when it’s time to update.
3. What should I do if my WordPress version is outdated?
Back up your website, then update to the latest WordPress version either manually or through your admin dashboard. Keeping WordPress up-to-date is crucial for security and functionality.
4. Can hiding my WordPress version make my site more secure?
Hiding your WordPress version (by removing the generator tag and readme.html) can stop automated bots from targeting known exploits. However, true security comes from keeping your core, plugins, and themes updated.
5. Will checking my WordPress version cost anything?
No, all common methods to check your WordPress version are completely free. Avoid services that ask you to pay just for this information, as WordPress is open and transparent about versioning for users.