# Enabling maintenance mode for WordPress

> Put your WordPress site into maintenance mode with a plugin so visitors see a notice while you make changes.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/enabling-maintenance-mode-for-wordpress/

When updating, testing, or fixing bugs on your WordPress site, it’s best to enable **Maintenance Mode** so visitors don’t encounter broken pages or errors. On **ruachost.com**, you can enable maintenance mode easily using plugins or built‑in options.

## Why Use Maintenance Mode?

- Prevents visitors from seeing incomplete updates.
- Provides a professional “Coming Soon” or “Under Maintenance” page.
- Allows administrators to safely test changes.
- Improves user experience during downtime.

## Method 1: Using SeedProd Plugin (Recommended)

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Plugins → Add New**.
3. Search for **Coming Soon Page & Maintenance Mode by SeedProd**.
4. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate**.
5. In the dashboard, go to **SeedProd → Pages**.
6. Click **Add New Landing Page** → Choose **Maintenance Mode**.
7. Select a template and customize the page (logo, text, colors, etc.).
8. Click **Save**, then **Publish**.
9. Visitors will now see the maintenance page until you disable it.

## Method 2: Manual Maintenance Mode

WordPress has a built‑in maintenance mode triggered during updates. You can also enable it manually:

1. Access your WordPress root directory via FTP or hosting file manager.
2. Create a file named **.maintenance**.
3. Add the following code inside:

   ```
   <?php
   $upgrading = time();
   ?>
   ```
4. Save the file → WordPress will display a “Briefly unavailable for scheduled maintenance” message.
5. To disable maintenance mode, delete the **.maintenance** file.

## Important Notes

- Always disable maintenance mode after finishing updates.
- Use a plugin for a branded, user‑friendly maintenance page.
- Manual mode is best for quick fixes but less customizable.
- Combine with caching plugins to ensure visitors see the latest version after updates.