> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mainwp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Required Plugins Check for MainWP Extensions

> When a MainWP extension requires a third-party plugin on child sites, the Dashboard prompts you to install it automatically.

Some MainWP extensions require third-party plugins to be installed on your child sites. When you open an extension page, the Dashboard checks for missing required plugins and prompts you to install them.

## What You'll Learn

* How the required plugins check works
* How to install required plugins
* What happens if you dismiss the prompt

***

## How the Check Works

The required plugin check is triggered when you open an extension page (e.g., **Dashboard > Add-ons > UpdraftPlus**).

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/mainwp/OKpZbeo5_cAajLyl/images/miscellaneous/advanced-miscellaneous-4d45fe.gif?s=6f9b9bc5ec80202dd921ff4dbd8923a1" alt="Animation showing required plugins installation prompt when opening an extension" width="1441" height="710" data-path="images/miscellaneous/advanced-miscellaneous-4d45fe.gif" />

If any required plugins are missing from your child sites, a popup modal appears with installation options.

***

## Installing Required Plugins

When the prompt appears, you have two options:

| Action                   | Result                                                    |
| ------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------- |
| Click **Install Plugin** | Installs and activates the required plugin on child sites |
| Click **Close**          | Dismisses the prompt for 30 days                          |

<Note>
  Installed plugins are automatically activated on child sites.
</Note>

***

## After Installation

After installing the required plugins, synchronize your Dashboard with child sites for the extension to detect the newly installed plugins.

Go to **MainWP > Sites > Manage Sites** and click **Sync Dashboard** or wait for the next automatic sync.

***

## Dismissed Prompt Timing

If you dismiss the modal by clicking **Close**, the next check for required plugins will occur no sooner than 30 days later.

To trigger an immediate check, deactivate and reactivate the extension, then open the extension page again.

***

## Self-Check Checklist

* [ ] Opened extension page to trigger check
* [ ] Installed required plugins (if prompted)
* [ ] Synchronized Dashboard with child sites
* [ ] Extension showing expected functionality

***

## Related Resources

* [Manage Add-ons](/dashboard/overview/manage-extensions) - Extension management
* [Managing Plugins](/sites/plugins/managing-plugins-with-mainwp) - Plugin management