WP-CLI is a command-line tool for managing WordPress. It lets you update WordPress, manage plugins and users, and fix problems – even when you can’t get into your WordPress admin area. It’s already installed on your hosting, so there’s nothing to set up.
WP-CLI is for developers and confident users. If you’d rather use a point-and-click tool, most of the same jobs can be done from the WordPress Toolkit in your Enhance panel – see how to manage WordPress updates and plugins in Enhance.
1. Connect over SSH
You’ll need SSH access to your website. For security, SSH is only allowed from IP addresses we’ve approved, so you may need to ask us to add yours first. See how to connect to your website using SSH.
2. Go to your website’s folder
When you connect, you start in your website’s home folder. WordPress is usually in the public_html folder, so move into it:
cd ~/public_htmlWP-CLI commands need to be run from the folder where WordPress is installed – the one containing the wp-config.php file.
If WordPress is in a subfolder, or on an addon domain or subdomain, it will be in a different folder. You can check where each domain’s files live in the Domains section of your Enhance panel (the Document root). Alternatively, run commands from anywhere by adding --path=~/public_html/foldername to the end.
3. Check it’s working
wp --info
wp core versionThe first command shows details about WP-CLI and PHP. The second shows your WordPress version. If you see a version number, you’re ready to go.
Useful commands to try
| Command | What it does |
|---|---|
wp plugin list | Lists your plugins, whether they’re active, and whether updates are available |
wp theme list | Lists your themes |
wp user list | Lists your WordPress users |
wp option get siteurl | Shows your website’s address, as WordPress sees it |
wp help | Lists every command. Add a command name for help with it, for example wp help plugin |
What you can do with WP-CLI
- Update WordPress, plugins and themes
- Reset a WordPress admin password
- Fix a broken WordPress site
- Back up and restore your WordPress database
- Search and replace in your WordPress database
- Clear caches and fix permalinks
Commands take effect straight away, with no undo button. Take a backup before making big changes, and double-check each command before you press Enter.
Need a hand? Please contact our support team. We look after your hosting and WP-CLI; problems inside WordPress plugins and themes are covered in do you support WordPress plugins and themes.
