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Abhishek Deshpande
Abhishek Deshpande

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Guide to WP-CLI for WordPress Developers

#wordpress #wpcli #cli #opensource

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
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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:

  1. Update WordPress Core: Keep WordPress updated without logging in.
  2. Manage Plugins and Themes: Install, update, or remove plugins and themes in seconds.
  3. Database Tasks: Optimize, clean, or export your database easily.
  4. Manage Content: Add, edit, or delete posts and pages.
  5. Fix URLs: Replace old URLs with new ones during migrations or SSL updates.
  6. 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
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Plugins 

wp plugin list # See all installed plugins wp plugin update --all # Update all plugins
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Themes 

wp theme list # List all installed themes wp theme update --all # Update all themes
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Database 

wp db optimize # Optimize the database wp db export backup.sql # Backup the database
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Cache 

wp cache flush # Clear all cache
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Search and Replace 

wp search-replace "http:" "https:" --all-tables # Change HTTP to HTTPS across the database
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Maintenance Mode 

wp maintenance-mode activate # Turn on maintenance mode wp maintenance-mode deactivate # Turn off maintenance mode
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My Daily WP-CLI Workflow

Here’s a simple routine to keep sites running smoothly:

  1. Check Core Version and Files 
 wp core version wp core verify-checksums
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  1. Update Plugins and Themes 
 wp plugin update --all wp theme update --all
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  1. Optimize Database 
 wp db optimize
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  1. Run Cron Jobs 
 wp cron event run --due-now
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  1. Clear Cache 
 wp cache flush
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  1. Fix URLs 
 wp search-replace "http:" "https:" --all-tables
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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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