how to disable WordPress autosave feature

Understanding WordPress Autosave Feature

The Autosave feature in WordPress automatically saves a backup version of your post or page as you edit, preventing data loss in case of unexpected issues like browser crashes or internet disruptions. By default, WordPress saves your work every 60 seconds. While this feature can be a lifesaver, some users prefer to disable it for various reasons, such as reducing database load or avoiding performance issues on low-resource hosting environments.

Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling WordPress Autosave

1. Editing the wp-config.php File

One of the most straightforward methods to disable autosave is by modifying the wp-config.php file. This file contains important WordPress settings and is located in the root directory of your WordPress installation.

Instructions:

• Access Your Site Files: Use an FTP client or the file manager provided in your hosting control panel.

• Locate wp-config.php: This file is typically found in the root folder of your WordPress installation.

• Edit the File: Open wp-config.php in a text editor.

• Disable Autosave: Add the following line of code:

  define('AUTOSAVE_INTERVAL', 86400);

  This line changes the autosave interval to a day. Technically, it doesn’t disable the feature but reduces its frequency significantly, making it almost non-existent.

• Save Changes and Upload: Save the file and upload it back to the server if you edited it offline. Ensure you backup the original file before making changes.

2. Using a Plugin

For those who prefer not to touch code, using a plugin to manage autosave settings is a convenient option. Plugins like “Disable Autosave” are available and can be installed directly from the WordPress admin dashboard.

Instructions:

• Go to Plugins > Add New: Search for “Disable Autosave.”
• Install and Activate: Click ‘Install’ and then ‘Activate’ the plugin.
• Configure If Necessary: Some plugins work out of the box, while others might have settings you can adjust from the WordPress dashboard.

3. Employing Custom Code in Functions.php

If you’re comfortable with adding custom code to your WordPress site, you can also achieve this by editing the functions.php file of your active theme.

Instructions:

• Access Theme Files: Navigate to Appearance > Theme Editor.
• Select functions.php: Find and select the functions.php file from the list on the right-hand side.
• Add Custom Code:

  function disable_autosave() {
      wp_deregister_script('autosave');
  }
  add_action('wp_print_scripts', 'disable_autosave');

• Update File: Click on “Update File” to save your changes.

4. Using a Site-Specific Plugin

Another non-invasive method is to create a site-specific plugin where you can add custom code that affects how your site functions, including disabling autosave.

Instructions:

• Create a Plugin: In your site’s plugin directory (/wp-content/plugins/), create a new PHP file.
• Add Plugin Header and Code: Open the file in a text editor and input the following:

  <?php /*
  Plugin Name: Disable Autosave
  Description: Disables the WordPress autosave feature.
  */
  add_action('wp_print_scripts', function() {
      wp_deregister_script('autosave');
  });

• Save and Activate Plugin: Save the file, access your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins, and activate your newly created plugin.

Adjusting Autosave Through jQuery

If you are experiencing difficulty with PHP methods or want a lighter touch, consider using jQuery to disable the autosave feature temporarily. This can be particularly useful for specific admin sessions or troubleshooting scenarios.

Instructions:

• Edit the Admin Footer: You can add custom jQuery via the admin footer by adding the following code to functions.php:

  function custom_admin_js() {
      echo '';
  }
  add_action('admin_footer', 'custom_admin_js');

Conclusion

Disabling the WordPress autosave feature can be approached in multiple ways, depending on your comfort level with coding or your preference for using plugins. Whether it’s adjusting the save interval, incorporating custom code, or using a plugin, you have several options to tailor WordPress’s behavior to suit your needs.