# How to Forcefully Update or Reinstall a WordPress Plugin

If a WordPress plugin is not working correctly, you can reinstall it without losing data or removing it. This method works for both active and inactive plugins.

* Log in to the **WordPress dashboard**.
* From the Dashboard menu, go to **Plugins** and click on **Plugin File Editor**.

<figure><img src="/files/VYNIWbpl6LhyZ1yaPVrv" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* In the **Select plugin to edit** dropdown menu, choose the plugin and click on **Select**.

<figure><img src="/files/4BvOsAXlLxm7MbnL9Wq7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* In the file editor, locate the version line:

<mark style="color:blue;">`Version: 1.7.2`</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">`Change it to:`</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">`Version: 1.7.1`</mark>

**Info:** Only change the version from a higher to a lower number to ensure compatibility.

<figure><img src="/files/AixOYFtoHbV0VzWd1DhS" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Scroll down and click on **Update File**. Then go back to the **Installed Plugins** list. There should be an update for the plugin you edited. Click on **Update Now**.

<figure><img src="/files/HwQmgOVQRTXrRIEDNAWp" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
Be cautious when changing plugin versions. Downgrading can lead to compatibility issues.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="success" %}
You have successfully forcefully updated or reinstalled the plugin without losing data!
{% endhint %}


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