Updating Wordpress - Overkill or do you do the same

[UKSBD]

I know it's probably overkill, and with one click updates, it's easy not to bother doing, but I still tend to do a complete Wordpress update evey now and then.
I.e.
I actually delete the whole Wordpress Directory (obviously after saving themes and other stuff first) and then upload the latest version via FTP.

Does anyone else bother doing this or do you just do the auto upgrade over the top of existing files?

 

[Nuno]

Auto, after checking backup.

 

[That Guy]

I just auto update when a new version is released

 

[marble_pars]

Can't imagine what you would achieve by manually replacing the whole directory, unless you have problems.

When auto updating it replaces the files anyway so its essentially the same.

 

[anthonyd]

I tend to just do it automatically, can't see what doing a complete removal/re-upload achieves unless you suspect your installation has been compromised.

 

[francsutherland]

I do automatic update as well after a backup.

 

[ecenica]

The dev community behind WordPress are generally an efficient bunch so the backup and automatic update is often the best route.

The only benefit I can think of to your approach is to remove any old files and database entries caused by obsolete plugins. This would only work if you build your site back up from scratch after reinstalling. If you're using a WordPress multisite setup and widgets this can be a real pain.

For major revision updates it's also good practice to clone your site to a test account. You can then check if your themes and plugins are compatible before clicking 'update' on your live site.

Richard.

 

[jamesgodwin]

Backup both database and site just incase. Before you decide to upgrade always have a look at all your plugins and make sure they're are compatible with the Wordpress version you're upgrading to, sometimes plugins are not and can break the site.