Updating web applications is crucial for ensuring their security, stability, and compatibility with the latest technologies. Users of Joomla 5 who encounter the issue of having a lower version of MariaDB than required by the minimum system requirements face a specific challenge. This article provides a detailed guide on how to address this issue through a manual update.
1. Understanding the Issue Joomla 5 requires a minimum of MariaDB version 10.4 for its operation. If your database version is lower, the system will display an error message, and a standard update will not be possible. This problem can be resolved by manually downloading the update package and installing it.
2. Preparing for the Update Before starting any update, it is essential to back up your website and database. A backup ensures that you can quickly restore the original state in case of issues during the update.
2.1. Database Backup
- Log in to the control panel of your hosting account.
- Look for the database management tool, such as phpMyAdmin.
- Select your database and use the "Export" function to create a backup.
2.2. Joomla Files Backup
- Connect to your server where Joomla is hosted using an FTP client.
- Download all files related to Joomla to your local disk.
3. Downloading the Update Package
- Visit the official Joomla website and go to the download section for Joomla 5 update packages.
- Download the latest update package compatible with your Joomla version.
4. Installing the Update Package
- Log in to your Joomla's administrator interface.
- Navigate to "Extensions" > "Manage" > "Install".
- Select the "Upload Package File" tab and use the file chooser button to upload the downloaded update package.
- After selecting the file, click on "Upload & Install".
5. Post-Update Check and Cleanup After completing the installation of the update package, it's recommended to check the functionality of the website and repair any issues the update may have caused. It's also wise to delete temporary files and clear the cache to ensure all changes are reflected.
Conclusion Manual updating of Joomla 5 in a situation where the MariaDB version is lower than the minimum requirements is more challenging but fully achievable with meticulous adherence to the steps outlined in this guide. Paying attention to details and not skipping any part of the preparation or the update itself is crucial.
Remember, keeping software up to date is key to the security and proper functioning of your website. If you have any doubts or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Joomla community or a professional developer.
