Do You Know What Version Your WordPress or DNN Website Is Right Now?
And why you should know!
Recently, we talked about why it is so important to update your website to the latest version. Which made folks wonder how to find out their current version! Here’s how to check your WordPress or DNN website:
The news story we shared was about the Broward County Public Schools website being held for ransom by hackers. Hacking can happen to any website, big or small, and every business owner or organization manager should prepare for the possibility as well as set up defensive measures. One good preventative is keeping your website platform updated to the latest version.
Sprocket Websites specializes in WordPress and DNN websites. 90% of website attacks are directed toward WordPress because it is such a popular platform, but no platform is immune to hacking, including DNN. Below are steps you can take to confirm which version you are using for comparison to the latest release.
WordPress
As of April 15, 2021, WordPress, is at version 5.7.1.
Here’s how to find out which version you are actually using:
- Log in to your website.
- On the Dashboard, there is a box labeled “At a Glance” that tells you what Version and Theme you are running.
- You may also have an announcement at the top of the page saying “WordPress 5.7.1 is available! Please update now!”
- Depending on your user permissions level, you may not see the "At a Glance" box and the announcement will instead read "WordPress 5.7.1 is available! Please notify the site administrator."
DNN
As of April 13, 2021, DNN is at version 9.9.1.
Here’s how to find out which version you are actually using:
- Click on the “Host” tab in the menu
- Click on the “Host Settings” icon
- Under the “Basic Settings” tab, “Configuration” will show what Product and Version you are running.
- Depending on your user permissions level, you may not see the "Basic Settings" tab and will instead need to contact your site administrator.
Keep in mind that in addition to updating the core software on these web platforms, any optional themes, plugins, or modules used on your website are also vulnerable to hacking and will need to be updated separately. Not all plugins are kept up-to-date by their creators, however, so be prepared.
As we have said before, arming your website with the latest platform version means any vulnerabilities have been patched, thwarting hackers – until they’ve had time to attack the new version. Because it is a constant fight, consider opting for an update package that takes care of your website automatically.
Certainly business is all about risk-taking, but this may be one risk better left untaken. If you want someone to update your website for you or if you aren’t sure what version you currently have, we’re happy to help you. Just give us a call!
Kate Gingold
I have been writing a blog with web marketing tips and techniques every other week since 2003. In addition to blogging and client content writing, I write books and a blog on local history.
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I have been writing a blog with web marketing tips and techniques every other week since 2003. In addition to blogging and client content writing, I write books and a blog on local history.
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