OK, so the overly dramatic and oh so scary post title might be just a tad over the top, what I really mean is that you probably don’t want to go and upgrade to WordPress 2.8 first thing tomorrow when it is released. Why do I say this you may ask, well it’s quite simple really. While WordPress 2.8 does offer many enhancements and improved function over WordPress 2.7.1 it will be just like anything else new, I always advise thorough testing before making any upgrade such as this. You don’t want to be the first kid on the block with a solar powered skateboard to only find out later that you can’t use it because you completely lack any resemblance of balance or skill, try it out first before making the dive in head first, you will be happier in the long run I promise.
What are the things that you want to know before upgrading?
- WordPress 2.8 requires database alterations to upgrade, as always back up your database before you do anything else.
- WordPress 2.8 may not be compatible with all the plugins you are currently using.
- Your flashy super cool theme may not be fully compatible with WordPress 2.8 but can more than likely be very easily modified should there be something wrong.
- It may be better to wait a week or two just to ensure the initial bugs are completely worked out before you grab a copy, unless you really want to have the latest and greatest as soon as possible.
Now, don’t get me wrong by assuming I am trying to steer you away from WordPress 2.8 as that is definitely not the case. What I am trying to encourage is for everyone to completely evaluate your particular setup to ensure that the upgrade goes over as easily as possible for you. The best way to dip your toes into the water with WordPress 2.8 is to install it on a test site and try out your theme and plugins to check for compatibility prior to implementing it on your real site. It’s much easier to check for compatibility when you aren’t worried about anything you change breaking your site.
So, hop on over to wordpress.org tomorrow and download your fresh new copy of WordPress 2.8 but install it on a test site first, play with it for a few days and make sure that everything works out as it should. Watch here as well in the coming days for a step by step walk through of the upgrade process for anyone that would like to know what it involves before attempting it yourself.
Thanks for the advice, I don’t will upgrade my wordpress until they create a easy-non-buged updater.
2.8.1 will be out shortly, that will be a much better option for most WordPress users to upgrade to. It’s always nice to let them work out the initial bugs before trying it out :-)
You were not the first to warn not to jump on WordPress 2.8.1 Another blogger who calls herself the WordPress Wizard said the same thing.. Funny how great minds think alike.
Now that it has been a week or so, what you think? Time to do it now?
.-= Kim´s last blog ..American Independence Day Give Away =-.
Hi Kim :-) I am always one to let the “dust” settle a bit on things like this. I will let you in on a little secret though.. shhh… don’t tell anyone just yet lol. I have been using 2.8 on this blog for about 4 days now and outside of a few tweaks to a few plugins it has been without a hiccup. I will be doing a follow up post on this topic once I am satisfied that everything is just how it should be.