Fix "Another Update Is Currently in Progress" in WordPress

Why it happens

When WordPress updates itself, it sets a lock so two updates do not run at once. If an update stops half way (the browser closed, the server timed out or a plugin failed), the lock stays. The next update then shows the message "Another update is currently in progress".

Method 1: Wait

The lock expires after about 15 minutes. Wait, reload the page and try again. Do not start the update twice.

Method 2: Remove the lock in the database

1. Log in to cPanel and open phpMyAdmin. Select the database of your site.

   

2. Open the table wp_options. (Your prefix may differ from wp_.)

   

3. Search for the row core_updater.lock, using the Search tab.

   

4. Delete that row.

   

You can also run this query in the SQL tab:

DELETE FROM wp_options WHERE option_name = 'core_updater.lock';

1. Go back to WordPress and run the update again.

Method 3: Use a plugin

A plugin such as Fix Another Update In Progress removes the lock with a click.

Method 4: Check file permissions

Wrong permissions can make updates fail.

• Folders should be 755.
• Files should be 644.

Method 5: Look for conflicts

• Turn off all plugins. If you cannot reach the dashboard, rename the wp-content/plugins folder with FTP.
• Switch to a default theme such as Twenty Twenty-Four.

Then try the update again.

Prevent it

1. Update the core, themes and plugins one at a time.
2. Test updates on a staging site first.
3. Use a tool such as Easy Updates Manager to control automatic updates.
4. Clear your browser cache if the message stays after the fix.
5. Take a backup before every update.

Quick recap

• A leftover lock causes the message.
• Wait 15 minutes or delete core_updater.lock in wp_options.
• Check permissions and plugin conflicts if it comes back.