Our clients sites should not be affected, regardless of their version, as long as they have not disabled any plugins. We use an in-house plugin that strips the version number, among other security-related enhancements. It’s based on the bs-wp-noversion plugin, from Blog Security.

I’m not suggesting that people shouldn’t upgrade. Upgrading is not only essential to the continued functioning of your website, in most cases, it’s also really easy.

What I am suggesting is that Technorati have proved themselves to be vindictive, in removing sites that contribute software (like WordPress), plugins, or themes, rather than improving their own algorithms. This is another case of them attempting to bully website owners into playing by their rules. We have an “add to technorati” button in our sidebar, but I still advocate breaking things off with Technorati. The more people use their site is the more that they’ll feel entitled to play the bully. h/t Dougal Gunters

People using wordpress primarily for blogging, who don’t use many plugins.  Also, people who like shiny new things, as the dashboard has been completely redesigned.

Who Should Not Upgrade?

People who use wordpress in conjunction with other software, like a forum, e-Commerce, etc. 2.5 introduces database changes that will affect a large number of plugins. Beyond that, 2.5 changes the way passwords are stored, so if you’re using any software that integrates tightly with wordpress (wp-united, vanilla, etc.), you’ll need to install a separate plugin to revert that change.

In general if you’re using a lot of plugins, you should be wary of upgrading.  Here’s the master list of plugins that do and don’t work.  Of the plugins that I’ve used thus far on test blogs, here are the ones that have had issues:

• Event Calendar 3:  has issues with the new Write panel, but there is a fix.
• TinyMCE Advanced: The second row is obscured, making it less usable
• WPG2: DOA.  Version 3.1 is on its way, which will be compatible

If you’re using a plugin that’s listed as incompatible, DON’T UPGRADE.  There are large security enhancements, but no patched security flaws in the new version.  I’m still testing plugins, and most plugin authors are working steadily on fixes.  Just wait it out.

To get started, log in to your host’s control panel. if you’re hosted on bluehost, you can log in here: login.bluehost.com. From your control panel, look for the Fantastico De Luxe icon:

After you click on that, the Fantastico home page should alert you if your installation is out of date. When you click upgrade, Fantastico will automatically backup your database and your files, in case there’s a problem. The backups will be stored for a month, and you will receive a warning before they are removed.

It’s pretty easy, but if you have any trouble (and you’re a one of our clients) don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, and we can make sure you’re running the most current version of wordpress.

If you’re hosted on GoDaddy, there a similar (but slightly more complex) process. Click on page 2 to read the directions: