WordPress “Another Update Is Currently in Progress” Error: How to Fix It

WordPress prevents two core updates from running at the same time. When an update begins, it creates a temporary lock. If the request times out or the browser closes, the lock can remain and trigger “Another update is currently in progress.”

Wait Before Changing Anything

Give the process about 15 minutes and refresh Dashboard → Updates. WordPress normally clears an expired core-update lock automatically. Opening several update tabs or clicking repeatedly can make diagnosis harder.

While waiting, check whether the site is responding and whether the hosting panel shows an active PHP process.

Back Up the Site

Before touching the database, create a current database and file backup. Confirm that no teammate, scheduled deployment, host tool, or WP-CLI process is still performing an update.

Remove a Stale Core Lock

If the message remains after the lock should have expired, use WP-CLI if available:

wp option delete core_updater.lock

Alternatively, an experienced administrator can remove the core_updater.lock entry from the options table in the database. Delete only that lock. Do not clear unrelated options or transients at random.

Retry the Update Once

Return to Dashboard → Updates and run the core update once. If it fails again, the lock is a symptom rather than the cause. Check PHP and server error logs for timeouts, permission problems, memory limits, failed downloads, or blocked connections to WordPress.org.

WordPress's update documentation also provides a manual update route when the one-click process cannot finish.

Prevent Another Stuck Update

Update from a stable connection, avoid refreshing during the process, and keep enough disk space available. Correct filesystem ownership so WordPress can replace files. On important sites, test major updates on staging first and keep a restorable backup.

Afterward, check the installed WordPress version, front end, dashboard, and Tools → Site Health. A cleared message alone does not prove that every update file was installed correctly.