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Quick Updater

Adds a drag-and-drop ZIP upload zone to the Plugins page for quick plugin installs and updates.

What It Does

Quick Updater adds an upload zone to the bottom of the Plugins list page. You can drag a plugin ZIP file onto the zone (or click to browse), and the plugin is installed or updated using WordPress's built-in Plugin_Upgrader with overwrite enabled. This is faster than going through the Add New > Upload Plugin flow when you already have a ZIP file ready.

Features

  • Drag-and-drop upload zone on the Plugins list page
  • Accepts ZIP files only — validates file type before upload
  • Uses WordPress Plugin_Upgrader with overwrite_package enabled — updates existing plugins or installs new ones
  • AJAX-based upload with progress feedback
  • Upload zone only appears for users with manage_options capability

How to Use

  1. Go to the Plugins page

    Navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins. An upload zone appears at the bottom of the page.

  2. Drop a ZIP file

    Drag a plugin ZIP file from your computer onto the upload zone, or click the zone to open a file browser. Only .zip files are accepted.

  3. Wait for installation

    The plugin is uploaded and installed (or updated if it already exists). You will see a success or error message when complete.

FAQ

Does it create a backup before updating?

No. Quick Updater uses WordPress's built-in Plugin_Upgrader which overwrites the existing plugin directory directly. If you want a backup first, use the Package Downloader module to download a ZIP copy before updating.

Can I upload themes this way?

No. Quick Updater only handles plugin ZIP files. For themes, use the standard Appearance > Themes > Add New > Upload Theme flow.

What happens if the ZIP contains a different plugin?

WordPress's Plugin_Upgrader will install it as a new plugin, not update the one you intended. Make sure the ZIP file matches the plugin you want to update.

Why do I see "Invalid file type"?

Only files with a .zip extension and application/zip MIME type are accepted. Rename or re-compress the file if needed.

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