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

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

Plugins

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

Themes

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

Database

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

Cache

wp cache flush                # Clear all cache

Search and Replace

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

Maintenance Mode

wp maintenance-mode activate   # Turn on maintenance mode
wp maintenance-mode deactivate # Turn off maintenance mode

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

1. Update Plugins and Themes

   wp plugin update --all
   wp theme update --all

1. Optimize Database

   wp db optimize

1. Run Cron Jobs

   wp cron event run --due-now

1. Clear Cache

   wp cache flush

1. Fix URLs

   wp search-replace "http:" "https:" --all-tables

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!