How Media Deduper identifies duplicates

Media Deduper Pro compares the original file data linked to each attachment. It calculates an MD5 hash and stores it as post metadata, so files with matching data can be identified without relying on titles, captions, or other WordPress metadata.

The add-on distinguishes separate media entries linked to files with the same data from items that point to the same underlying data file. The latter can occur with extensions such as WP Job Manager or Duplicate Post.

Index the library and review matches

Media Deduper builds an index of the media library before it can identify duplicates. The initial indexing may take some time, especially in a large library. Media Deduper Pro adds faster indexing, and new uploads are added automatically once the initial index is established.

Open Media > Manage Duplicates to review the matches. The list includes every copy because the plugin cannot determine which one you prefer based on your metadata. It is sorted by file size by default, with larger files first.

Review files before deletion

Smart Delete processes selected items one by one and skips an item when no duplicate remains, helping preserve the last copy. If a duplicate is used as a post’s Featured Image, Smart Delete can reassign the post to an already-used copy before deleting that duplicate.

Smart Delete tracks Featured Images only. It does not track pictures used in galleries, post bodies, shortcodes, meta fields, or other locations. Review each deletion carefully and back up site data before cleanup, since deletion can permanently affect database entries or files.

Additional image fields

Media Deduper Pro works with image fields from several popular extensions, including WooCommerce and Yoast SEO.

Requirements and support

Media Deduper requires PHP 7.0 or later. Media Deduper Pro includes dedicated support from Cornershop Creative.