WordPress is a popular tool for building websites. Sometimes, it has errors. One common error is “Another Update in Process”. This error stops you from updating WordPress. But, don’t worry. This guide will help you fix it.
Why Does This Error Happen?
This error happens when WordPress is updating. It sets a lock to stop other updates. This lock is removed when the update is done. But sometimes, the lock stays. This causes the error.
How to Fix the Error
There are two easy ways to fix this error. You can either wait or remove the lock manually. Let’s look at both methods.
1. Wait For The Lock To Expire
Sometimes, the lock will expire on its own. WordPress sets the lock for 15 minutes. If the update is not done, the lock goes away. So, wait for 15 minutes. Then try updating again.
2. Remove The Lock Manually
If waiting doesn’t work, you can remove the lock manually. Follow these steps:
- Login to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to “Plugins” and then “Add New”.
- Search for “WP-Optimize” plugin.
- Install and activate the plugin.
- Go to “WP-Optimize” from your dashboard menu.
- Click on “Database” tab.
- Find the option that says “Clean all post revisions”.
- Click on “Run optimization”.
- This will remove the lock and fix the error.
Advanced Method: Using phpMyAdmin
If the above methods don’t work, you can use phpMyAdmin. This method is a bit advanced. Follow these steps carefully:
- Login to your web hosting control panel (cPanel).
- Find and click on “phpMyAdmin”.
- Select your WordPress database from the list on the left.
- Click on the “wp_options” table. Note: Your table name may have a different prefix.
- Look for the row with the option name “core_updater.lock”.
- Select this row and click on “Delete”.
- Confirm the deletion.
This will remove the lock and fix the error. Be careful when using phpMyAdmin. Making a mistake here can break your site.

Credit: www.wpbeginner.com
Preventing the Error in Future
You can take steps to prevent this error. Here are some tips:
- Always backup your site before updates.
- Update plugins and themes one at a time.
- Use a staging site for testing updates.
Following these tips will help you avoid this error in the future.

Credit: gigapress.net
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes The “another Update In Process” Error In WordPress?
This error happens when a core update is already running.
How Can I Manually Fix The Update Error?
Delete the “core_updater. lock” file from your database.
Can The Error Fix Itself Over Time?
Yes, it can clear after about 15 minutes.
Is It Safe To Delete The “core_updater.lock” File?
Yes, it is safe and necessary to fix the error.
Conclusion
The “Another Update in Process” error is common. But, it is easy to fix. You can wait for the lock to expire. Or, you can remove the lock manually. If needed, you can use phpMyAdmin. Follow the steps in this guide to fix the error. And take steps to prevent it in the future. Happy updating!