Upgrading from Umbraco 7 to version 13 is a complex process due to significant changes in the underlying technology. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this upgrade journey.

Upgrading from Umbraco 7 to 8

Database Preparation:

  • Upgrade the database sequentially through intermediate versions: 7.3.9, 7.6.14, and 7.15.x. This is essential to introduce necessary migrations and updates gradually​.
  • Handle custom data type migrations using tools like the Our.Umbraco.Migrations package to ensure compatibility with new property editors in Umbraco 8​.

File Upgrades:

    • Update the project to .NET Framework 4.7.2 and fix any custom code to ensure it compiles correctly.
    • Update or replace packages with their version 8 equivalents and address any template changes required​​.

Upgrading from Umbraco 8 to 13

Incremental Approach:

  • Umbraco 8 to 9: This is the most challenging step as it involves transitioning from the .NET Framework to .NET Core. Code rewrites and comprehensive testing will be required due to breaking changes in the underlying framework​.
  • Umbraco 9 to 10: This step is relatively easier with fewer breaking changes. Follow the official documentation to handle these changes.
  • Umbraco 10 to 13: Follow sequential upgrades through versions 11 and 12. Each step will involve minimal adjustments and is designed to ensure compatibility and stability​.

Technical Adjustments:

  • Utilise NuGet packages for upgrading and ensure all configuration files are updated according to the new version requirements.
  • Use a diff tool to compare configuration files between your project and a vanilla installation of the target version. This helps identify necessary changes and potential issues​.

Planning and Testing:

  • Thoroughly back up your site, including the database and webroot, before starting the upgrade process.
  • Test each incremental upgrade extensively in a staging environment to ensure functionality and stability before moving to the next version​​.

Key Considerations

  • Compatibility and Stability: Incremental upgrades help maintain compatibility with existing customisations and ensure system stability through thorough testing at each step​​.
  • System Integrity: Gradual upgrades prevent system breakdowns and allow for controlled transitions to the new framework​​.

Digital Republic’s Umbraco Upgrade Experience

Digital Republic has extensive experience in managing complex Umbraco upgrades. Their expertise spans from initial consultations and planning to the final stages of implementation and testing. They understand the nuances of migrating from legacy systems to modern frameworks and are adept at handling the challenges posed by significant platform changes. With a thorough understanding of Umbraco’s architecture and a commitment to maintaining system integrity, Digital Republic ensures that each upgrade is seamless and optimised for performance, providing clients with a robust and up-to-date content management system that leverages the latest features and enhancements. This extensive experience makes Digital Republic a reliable partner for any organisation looking to upgrade their Umbraco CMS​.