Delete WordPress plugins correctly - Here's how!

January 11, 2019

WordPress plugins can only be deleted properly if they are deleted from both the web files and the database. Both require space and capacity. Inadequate deletion can lead to program conflicts and more time later on. You should invest a little time in backing up and deleting from the database. It is definitely worth it. However, you will only see the real benefit once things have gone wrong and you have omitted the backup or deletion from the database.

Delete WordPress plugins correctly - backup

Before you delete anything, you should make a comprehensive backup. Sometimes you miss the deleted Plugin quickly. When deleting the plugin via the BackendThis may not be so bad, as it can be reinstalled quickly. However, if you make a mistake when deleting from the database and accidentally delete the wrong table, this can have a significant impact on the website. You should therefore always make a backup.

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Delete WordPress plugins correctly - Web files

You can't do much wrong when deleting the plugin from the web directory. You have to delete the Plugin deactivate it under Plugins/Manage and delete it in the next step.

Only that Plugin itself can make a mistake here, because some plugins delete themselves here only in the web folder and not in the database. If you do not use so many plugins and in particular do not try plugins that are aimed at the same function to find the best, you probably have no problem here if you do nothing else. However, if you often feel the need to test plugins or to spice up your websites with plugins, you should check the Plugin also delete from the database.

Delete WordPress plugins correctly - Database

The WordPress database can be accessed via the PHPMYADMIN tool. Your provider will usually give you a website where you can access this program and therefore the database. You then enter your database password there and can delete the corresponding entries.

The database tables of the plugins have mostly the same or a slightly modified name. Therefore you should look at the deleted Plugin remember, write it down if necessary and then search for a corresponding database table in PHPMYADMIN.

Delete plugins in the database

By clicking on the red cross in the table and then confirming with OK, you can delete the corresponding Plugin now complete. Always provided that the Plugin has not already deleted this table in advance when deleting it in the Backend deleted as well, as is the case with this Plugin fortunately, this is the case. In this case, one would not need an additional table here for the Plugin find and can be pleased that the programmer of the plugin has worked cleanly and has completely limited the deletion process to Backend-level (=administration level) has initiated.

So if you want to delete WordPress plugins correctly, you should always check the database and never forget the backup.
What experiences have you had with deleting WordPress plugins?

FAQ

What is a wordpress plugin?

Wordpress plugins are software programs that let you extend the features of your WordPress website. You can use them to add various features, such as a contact form, search function, SEO optimization, design customization, etc.

Why should I delete a Wordpress plugin?

There are some reasons why you can delete a WordPress plugin. For example, a plugin may stop updating, it may cause a problem or conflict, it may slow down your site or contain unnecessary features.

How do I delete a wordpress plugin?

To delete a Wordpress plugin, first log into your Wordpress admin dashboard. Then you can select the plugin from the list of installed plugins in the dashboard and click the trash icon to delete it.

What happens if I delete a wordpress plugin?

When you delete a plugin, all files, settings, and functions associated with the plugin are removed from your site. However, if the plugin was already in use on your site, there may still be some aesthetic effects, such as a blank area.

Can I restore a plugin after deleting it?

No, once deleted plugin cannot be restored. You need to reinstall the plugin to use it again.

Can deleting a wordpress plugin damage my website?

No, if you delete a plugin properly, it will not have any harmful effects on your website. However, it is important that you backup your website before deleting it to make sure that you keep all your data.

Can I uninstall a Wordpress plugin instead of deleting it?

Yes, you can uninstall a WordPress plugin by disabling or removing the plugin in the Dashboard. When you uninstall a plugin, the plugin's files are kept on your server, but it will no longer be active on your website.

Can I delete multiple plugins at once?

Yes, you can delete multiple plugins at once by selecting multiple plugins at once and then clicking the trash icon.

Do I need a plugin to add a specific feature to my website?

There are many features that can be added without a plugin. However, it depends on what feature you want to add. There are many different plugins that offer different features, so it will help you to find one that suits your needs.

What is the difference between a plugin and a theme?

The difference between a plugin and a theme is that a plugin adds specific features to you, while a theme can affect your design and layout. A plugin is focused on features, while a theme is focused on design.

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About the author

Niels Stuck

Niels Stuck has 10 years of SEO experience and is the founder of the SEO agency "WOLF OF SEO". He gained practical experience by building 20+ affiliate sites alongside his marketing studies. Finally, he wrote his bachelor thesis about the influence of SEO on Google rankings, traffic and sales development in the form of a case study. Today, he specializes in e-commerce SEO and helps more than 80 companies build a sustainable organic revenue channel through SEO. Niels advises startups, established brands and corporations in search engine optimization of their online stores and primarily focuses on data-based content strategies and link building. He shares his knowledge about SEO and online marketing in this blog, as a speaker at conferences, in podcasts and as a guest author for OMT, Forbes, Starting Up and many more platforms.

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