A WordPress site isn’t “set and forget.” Just like your car needs regular servicing, your website needs monthly health checks to stay secure, fast, and reliable.
Skipping this routine may not cause issues immediately — but when something breaks, it’s often because the basics weren’t checked.
Here’s a step-by-step process we use at Portnov Agency for monthly WordPress maintenance.
Step 1: Check for Updates
- Review WordPress core, plugins, and themes
- Test updates in a staging environment before applying them live
- Document changes for traceability
Step 2: Backup & Verify
- Ensure daily automated backups are running
- Verify that backups are stored off-site
- Test restoring from backup at least once a month
Step 3: Security Scan
- Run a malware and vulnerability scan
- Check for suspicious login attempts
- Update security keys if needed
Step 4: Performance Audit
- Test site speed (desktop & mobile)
- Review Core Web Vitals (LCP, FID, CLS)
- Clear caches and optimize database
Step 5: Content & User Check
- Review new user accounts for suspicious activity
- Check forms, checkout, and other critical site flows
- Test contact forms and integrations (e.g., CRM, email, payments)
Step 6: Reporting & Action Plan
- Document updates, issues, and fixes
- Provide clear recommendations for next month
- Track trends (e.g., performance improvements, security incidents)
✅ Free Download: Monthly Health Check Template
Want to run your own monthly WordPress check?
We’ve prepared a step-by-step checklist template that covers all essentials:
- Updates, backups, and security
- Performance and Core Web Vitals
- Content and user activity
- Reporting structure
Final Thoughts
A monthly health check isn’t about “fixing problems.” It’s about preventing them.
With a structured routine, your site remains stable, secure, and ready to grow.
At Portnov Agency, we run full monthly audits for our clients as part of every support plan.
👉 See what’s included: portnov.agency/support