How to Check the Version of WordPress on Your Site

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Knowing which version of WordPress your website is running is important for security, compatibility, and performance. Whether you’re troubleshooting an issue, updating plugins, or improving website security, checking your WordPress version helps you keep your site running smoothly.

In this guide, you’ll learn several easy ways to check the version of WordPress on your site.

Why Checking Your WordPress Version Matters

Your WordPress version affects:

  • Website security
  • Plugin compatibility
  • Theme compatibility
  • Site performance
  • Access to new features

Running outdated versions of WordPress can expose your site to security risks and functionality problems.

Method 1: Check WordPress Version from the Dashboard

This is the easiest method if you can access the admin area.

Step 1: Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard

Visit:

yourwebsite.com/wp-admin

Enter your username and password.

Step 2: View the Dashboard Screen

Once logged in, go to the main dashboard.

In many WordPress installations, the version number appears near the bottom right corner of the dashboard page.

Example:

Version 6.5

Step 3: Check the Updates Page

You can also find the version here:

  1. Go to Dashboard
  2. Click Updates

At the top of the page, WordPress displays your current version along with update availability.

Method 2: Check WordPress Version from the “At a Glance” Widget

Some WordPress dashboards show the version in the:

At a Glance section

on the homepage dashboard screen.

This area provides a quick overview of:

  • Posts
  • Pages
  • Comments
  • WordPress version

Method 3: Check the Source Code of Your Website

If you cannot access the dashboard, you may still find the version publicly displayed.

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Step 1: Open Your Website

Visit your homepage in a web browser.

Step 2: View Page Source

Right-click anywhere on the page and select:

View Page Source

or press:

  • Ctrl + U on Windows
  • Command + Option + U on Mac

Step 3: Search for “generator”

Use the browser search feature:

  • Ctrl + F
  • Command + F

Search for:

generator

You may see something like:

<meta name="generator" content="WordPress 6.5" />

This reveals the WordPress version.

Note: Some websites hide this information for security reasons.

Method 4: Check the readme.html File

WordPress includes a default readme file that often contains the version number.

Step 1: Visit the Readme URL

Enter this into your browser:

yourwebsite.com/readme.html

Step 2: Look for the Version Number

The WordPress version is usually displayed near the top of the page.

Important: Many site owners remove this file for security purposes.

Method 5: Check the version.php File

This method requires access to your website files.

Step 1: Access Website Files

Use:

  • cPanel File Manager
  • FTP client
  • Hosting dashboard

Step 2: Open the WordPress Includes Folder

Navigate to:

wp-includes/version.php

Step 3: Find the Version Number

Open the file and look for this line:

$wp_version = '6.5';

This shows your exact WordPress version.

Why Keeping WordPress Updated Is Important

Updating WordPress regularly helps:

  • Fix security vulnerabilities
  • Improve performance
  • Add new features
  • Maintain plugin compatibility
  • Prevent website errors

Outdated WordPress versions are one of the most common causes of hacked websites.

Tips for Managing WordPress Updates

Back Up Your Website First

Always create a backup before updating WordPress.

Update Plugins and Themes Regularly

Old plugins and themes can create compatibility problems.

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Use a Staging Site

Test major updates on a staging site before updating your live website.

Enable Automatic Updates Carefully

Automatic updates improve security but should still be monitored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Latest Version of WordPress?

WordPress versions change frequently. You can check the latest release on the official WordPress website.

Is It Safe to Show My WordPress Version Publicly?

Many experts recommend hiding the version number to improve security.

Can Plugins Detect My WordPress Version?

Yes. Security and maintenance plugins often display version information.

What Happens If I Don’t Update WordPress?

Your site may become vulnerable to hackers, bugs, and compatibility issues.

How Often Should I Update WordPress?

You should update WordPress whenever a stable release becomes available.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to check the version of WordPress on your site is an essential part of website management. Whether you use the dashboard, source code, or file system, knowing your current version helps you maintain a secure and high-performing website.

Regular updates and maintenance are key to keeping your WordPress site running safely and efficiently.

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