WPConstructor Unlinker

Safely removes symbolic links (symlinks) inside WordPress plugins or themes during updates and uninstallation, without touching the original source directories.

📦 Overview

WPConstructor Unlinker is a developer-focused WordPress plugin that automatically detects and removes symbolic links inside plugin or theme directories when they are updated or uninstalled.

It is built for modern development workflows using tools like Composer, npm, or monorepos, where symlinks are commonly used to link external packages into WordPress projects.

Instead of deleting real source directories, it safely removes only the symlink references, ensuring external development files remain untouched.

🚀 Features

• 🔍 Automatically detects symlinks in plugins and themes
• 🧹 Removes symlinks during plugin update and uninstall
• 🛡️ Preserves original source directories (never deletes them)
• ⚙️ Zero configuration required
• 🧩 Works with both plugins and themes
• 🪶 Lightweight and developer-friendly

🧑‍💻 Use Cases

• Composer-based WordPress development
• npm / frontend build workflows
• Monorepo architectures
• Local development with shared packages
• Preventing update/uninstall issues caused by symlinked files

📥 Installation

1. Download the wpcn-unlinker.zip file from GitHub Actions (build artifacts)

   • Open this link WPConstructor Unlinker Releases and download the latest wpcn-unlinker.zip file.

2. In your WordPress admin dashboard go to:

   • Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin
   • Choose the wpcn-unlinker.zip file
   • Click Install Now
   • Activate WPConstructor Unlinker
   • Done — the plugin runs automatically when needed

❓ FAQ

Does this delete the original files the symlink points to?

No. Only the symlink is removed. The original directory and files are untouched.

Do I need to configure anything?

No configuration is required. The plugin works automatically.

Is it safe for production?

Yes. It only targets symlinks inside plugin or theme directories and does not affect external paths.

Why do I need this plugin?

WordPress can mishandle symlinked files during updates or uninstall operations. This plugin ensures only the symlinks are removed, preventing accidental issues.

📜 Changelog

1.0.1

• Updated README.md with image.
• Updated GitHub Workflow testing if push tag and main file version are same.

1.0.0

• Initial release
• Automatic unlinks symlinks on plugin update and uninstall
• Safe handling of symlinked directories

⬆️ Upgrade Notice

1.0.1

Small changes.

1.0.0

Initial release of WPConstructor Unlinker.

📄 License

Licensed under GPL-3.0 or later see LICENSE.md for details.