Understanding SureMembers Core and Pro

SureMembers is now split into two separate plugins: SureMembers Core and SureMembers Pro. This change gives you a free foundation to start with, while keeping all the advanced features in the Pro version. If you are an existing user or setting up SureMembers for the first time, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Applies to: SureMembers v3.0.0 and above.

What Is SureMembers Core?

SureMembers Core is the free version of SureMembers. It is available on WordPress.org and acts as the base plugin that makes everything work.

• It is required for SureMembers Pro to function.
• It provides the core membership foundation for your site.
• You can install it directly from your WordPress dashboard, just like any free plugin.

What Is SureMembers Pro?

SureMembers Pro is the premium plugin that contains all the advanced membership features you know from SureMembers.

• It is an extension of SureMembers Core.
• It cannot work on its own. SureMembers Core must be installed and active first.
• If you are a current SureMembers customer, your existing plugin will become SureMembers Pro after the v3.0.0 update.

Upgrade Guide for Existing Users

If you are already using SureMembers (before v3.0.0), follow these steps carefully to upgrade without any issues.

Important: Do NOT install SureMembers Core before updating your existing SureMembers plugin to v3.0.0. Older versions of SureMembers contain similar code to Core. Installing both at the same time will cause conflicts on your site.

Correct Upgrade Order

1. Update your existing SureMembers plugin to version 3.0.0 from your WordPress dashboard.
2. Check your WordPress admin dashboard for the notice that appears after the update.

3. Click the install option in the admin notice to install SureMembers Core.
4. Activate SureMembers Core once the installation is complete.

After this, your plugin list will show both SureMembers Core and SureMembers Pro as two separate active plugins.

Installation Guide for New Users

If you are setting up SureMembers for the first time, here is the order to follow.

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Plugins > Add New Plugin.
2. Search for “SureMembers Core” and install it.

[Screenshot: WordPress plugin search showing SureMembers Core]

3. Activate SureMembers Core.
4. Purchase SureMembers Pro from the SureMembers website if you have not already.
5. Download the SureMembers Pro plugin file from your account.
6. Go to Plugins > Add New Plugin > Upload Plugin and upload the Pro plugin file.
7. Activate SureMembers Pro.

[Screenshot: Both SureMembers Core and SureMembers Pro are showing as active in the plugins list]

SureMembers Pro will now be fully active and ready to use.

SureMembers Core vs Pro

Feature	SureMembers (Core)	SureMembers Pro
Unlimited Memberships	✅ Available	✅ Available
Protected Content	✅ Available	✅ Available
Unauthorised Access Handling	✅ Available	✅ Available
LMS Integrations	✅ Available	✅ Available
Redirection Rules	✅ Available	✅ Available
Login Customizer	✅ Available	✅ Available
User Role Sync	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Block-Level Restrictions	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Drip Content	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Downloads Protection	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Login Restrictions	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Email Templates	❌ Not available	✅ Available
Import Users via CSV	❌ Not available	✅ Available

Troubleshooting: Conflict Scenarios

SureMembers Pro is not working after installation

Make sure SureMembers Core is installed and active. Pro cannot run without Core. Go to Plugins in your WordPress dashboard and check if SureMembers Core appears in the list and is active.

I installed SureMembers Core before updating to v3.0.0

This can cause a conflict because older versions of SureMembers already include similar core code. Here is how to fix it:

1. Deactivate and delete SureMembers Core from your plugins list.
2. Update your existing SureMembers plugin to v3.0.0.
3. Follow the upgrade steps above once the update is complete.

I see a conflict or error after updating to v3.0.0

If you notice any errors or unexpected behavior after updating:

• Check if both SureMembers Core and SureMembers Pro are active.
• Make sure no older version of SureMembers is still active alongside the new setup.
• Reach out to support if the issue continues.

You are now set up with the new SureMembers plugin structure. Whether you upgraded from an older version or started fresh, both SureMembers Core and SureMembers Pro are working together to power your membership site.

If you have any questions or need further help, feel free to reach out to our support team. We’re always happy to help!