WordPress powers over 43% of websites globally and is a favorite among developers managing multiple sites. To save time and work smarter, try WP-CLI, a tool that helps you manage WordPress from the command line. This guide explains what WP-CLI is, how to use it, and the best commands for faster WordPress maintenance.
What is WP-CLI?
WP-CLI stands for WordPress Command Line Interface. It lets you manage WordPress sites directly from your terminal without logging into the dashboard. With WP-CLI, you can update plugins, optimize databases, and perform bulk tasks quickly.
Imagine managing 10 websites without opening a browser—WP-CLI makes it possible.
Getting Started with WP-CLI
Step 1: Install WP-CLI
Most hosting services include WP-CLI. If not, you can follow the official installation guide. After installation, go to your WordPress root folder using your terminal.
Step 2: Check the Installation
Run this command:
wp --info
If it shows details like your WP-CLI version and PHP setup, you're ready.
Step 3: Run Commands
Make sure you’re in the WordPress root directory (where wp-config.php is). From here, you can start using commands.
What Can WP-CLI Do?
Here are some common tasks WP-CLI makes easier:
- Update WordPress Core: Keep WordPress updated without logging in.
- Manage Plugins and Themes: Install, update, or remove plugins and themes in seconds.
- Database Tasks: Optimize, clean, or export your database easily.
- Manage Content: Add, edit, or delete posts and pages.
- Fix URLs: Replace old URLs with new ones during migrations or SSL updates.
- Backup and Restore: Export your database or create backups in no time.
Why Use WP-CLI for Maintenance?
WP-CLI is all about saving time and effort. Here’s why it’s great for developers:
- Speed: Commands are much faster than using the WordPress dashboard.
- Automation: You can schedule and automate repetitive tasks.
- Bulk Actions: Handle updates and changes across many items at once.
- Remote Management: Manage websites via SSH from anywhere.
- Precision: Access advanced tools like database search-and-replace.
For developers working with tight deadlines, WP-CLI is a game-changer.
Top WP-CLI Commands
Here are some essential commands to get you started:
Core Management
wp core version # Check WordPress version
wp core update # Update WordPress
wp core verify-checksums # Check core file integrity
Plugins
wp plugin list # See all installed plugins
wp plugin update --all # Update all plugins
Themes
wp theme list # List all installed themes
wp theme update --all # Update all themes
Database
wp db optimize # Optimize the database
wp db export backup.sql # Backup the database
Cache
wp cache flush # Clear all cache
Search and Replace
wp search-replace "http:" "https:" --all-tables
# Change HTTP to HTTPS across the database
Maintenance Mode
wp maintenance-mode activate # Turn on maintenance mode
wp maintenance-mode deactivate # Turn off maintenance mode
My Daily WP-CLI Workflow
Here’s a simple routine to keep sites running smoothly:
- Check Core Version and Files
wp core version
wp core verify-checksums
- Update Plugins and Themes
wp plugin update --all
wp theme update --all
- Optimize Database
wp db optimize
- Run Cron Jobs
wp cron event run --due-now
- Clear Cache
wp cache flush
- Fix URLs
wp search-replace "http:" "https:" --all-tables
WP-CLI Tips: What to Avoid
- Wrong Directory: Always run commands in the WordPress root folder.
- No Backups: Back up your site before big changes.
- Careless Search-Replace: Be cautious—mistakes can break your site.
- Blind Updates: Test updates on a staging site first.
WP-CLI is a must-have tool for WordPress developers. It makes managing websites easier, faster, and more efficient. Whether you manage one site or many, WP-CLI can save you hours of work.
Try it today to see how it can transform your workflow. If you have questions or tips, share them below!
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