Hi @miata2
Thanks for using Yoast SEO plugin and for creating the topic.
Kindly note that when you update a plugin, it downloads the plugin zip file to your server, unzips the zip file in your website, and updates the files in the plugin folder with the new files. If that fails part way through, it’s almost always due to a lack of available disk space on your hosting account or due to some server restrictions or the permission to write is disabled by some rules on your server. So we recommend you to reach out to your hosting provider to check whether the disk space is available and to check the folder permissions are correct.
You can also try to update the plugin to the latest version 22.2, by following the steps mentioned below or via the FTP method.
Before we discuss manually updating, let’s cover a few important things to be aware of beforehand. First, Yoast SEO stores SEO data and settings in the database, so manually updating is not expected to cause any data loss.
Second, we recommend creating regular backups of your site and database for your site’s health and safety. This is especially important before installing, updating, or removing plugins. It provides you with a safety net in case something were to go wrong. Learn more about <u>the benefits of regular backups</u>.
Thirdly, updating a severely outdated plugin may cause unexpected issues. Thus, we highly recommend using a staging or testing site to reduce the impact on your live site. Some popular web hosts offer quick setups for a staging site, so please contact your web host for assistance. They will probably be able to help you out. If your web host does not offer staging sites, the WordPress plugin repository offers staging plugins, or you can create your own staging site.
Now on to your options for updating the plugin manually.
Option 1: Replace the installed version with the uploaded version
This method is similar to the original installation steps. When you see the warning that the plugin is already installed, please click the ‘Replace current with uploaded’ button to complete the manual update.
Option 2: Uninstall and Reinstall
This method will remove all plugin files and install a freshly downloaded copy. As you are removing and uploading a new copy, you will have a clean install of the plugin. Please follow the steps to uninstall the plugin before you install the latest version. You can download the latest version here.
Option 3: Via S/FTP or File Manager
This method entails deleting the old plugin files and uploading the new plugin files to the same folder path. We have a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. How can I manually update my (premium) plugin? If you are unfamiliar with using FTP, your web host may be able to help.
