TYPO3 upgrade: When is it simple, when is it complicated?

In this article you will learn

• when an upgrade is simple and when it becomes complex
• which steps you should definitely follow
• how to minimize risks
• when professional support makes sense

We want to explain the most important points as simply and comprehensibly as possible. So that you can decide with confidence what is important for a TYPO3 update.

Why a TYPO3 upgrade is important

The TYPO3 system is regularly developed further and new versions are released.

New versions bring:

• Security updates
• Improved functions
• Stability and performance
• Support for current technologies

Without an upgrade, you run the risk that known security gaps will no longer be closed. LTS versions (Long Term Support) receive particularly long updates - usually several years.

Tip: Check which TYPO3 version is currently running in the backend. You can find the version number at the top left of the backend.

When is an update easy?

Small version jumps

A minor update - for example from TYPO3 12.3 to 12.4 - works without any problems in many cases.

The prerequisite is

• All extensions are up to date
• No outdated customizations in the system
• Hosting environment fulfills requirements

If these points are met, the upgrade usually runs without any major problems.

Keep the hosting environment up to date

Up-to-date hosting makes the upgrade easier.

Important aspects are

• Current PHP version: TYPO3 12/13 requires at least PHP 8.2 or higher.
• Modules and system requirements: missing system extensions slow down the process

At jweiland.net you can set the appropriate PHP version for each domain - this is particularly helpful for test and live environments.

An update is then easy:

• Small version jumps are usually unproblematic
• There are no custom extensions or large, individual customizations
• Hosting & server environment are up to date
• Backup & test environment are available

Then an update is more complex:

• For large version jumps (major updates)
• When using your own extensions or many individual customizations
• If the hosting & server environment is not compatible

Important preparation: what steps you should take

An upgrade should never take place directly on the live website. Always work in a test environment or on a copy of your website first.

1. create a backup

Before you start:

• Create a complete backup of your database
• Back up the file system of the TYPO3 installation

Many hosting providers - including jweiland.net - have automatic backups and restore functions in the customer menu. A backup protects you from data loss and allows you to go back to the original state in the event of problems.

2. use a test environment

First carry out the upgrade in a test environment.

This has clear advantages:

• You see possible errors before they go live
• You avoid downtime for your visitors
• You can test adjustments at your leisure

After the successful test, you can go live with the updated version.

3. check extensions

Custom extensions or older extensions are frequent stumbling blocks when upgrading.

We therefore recommend

• Check the compatibility of all extensions
• Update extensions before the upgrade
• Remove extensions that are no longer required

TYPO3 offers tools such as the extension scanner in the Install Tool to detect outdated functions. If you use your own extensions, check the code for outdated functions. This saves errors later on.

Major upgrade: When major versions change

Major version upgrades - for example from TYPO3 12 to TYPO3 13 - are usually more complex.

The following applies here:

• More version steps = more effort
• Database migrations may be necessary
• Manual adjustments to templates or configurations are sometimes necessary

In such cases, professional support is worthwhile. Experts have experience with typical pitfalls and know best practices.

TYPO3 licensed support: upgrade check

If you are unsure whether your website is upgradeable, an upgrade check can help.

What we at jweiland.net check for you:

• Number of version steps
• Installation method
• Extension compatibility

Based on this check, you will receive an assessment of whether an upgrade in your project is at all possible, simple or complex - including a rough time and cost estimate. This upgrade check is even free of charge for our hosting customers.

Practical example: Upgrade in 3 steps

Backup & test environment

Copy your live website to a test directory or subdomain.

System analysis

Check PHP version, extensions and configuration.

Execute & test

Perform the upgrade and test the live operation in the test environment. If everything runs smoothly, go live with the updated version.

How to avoid stress during a TYPO3 upgrade

A TYPO3 upgrade is by no means rocket science, but it can still be complex. Especially if you don't do it every day.

So you can upgrade safely and efficiently:

• Plan time for testing
• Use backups and test environments
• Check extensions thoroughly
• Keep your hosting and PHP version up to date

With this preparation, you can avoid surprises and carry out the upgrade successfully. And if you want your TYPO3 upgrade to be completely stress-free, leave it to us!