Install Suite 4.0 then move 3.8?
 

Hi,

If I install a fresh suite 4.0 vs upgrade my 3.8 is this the best solution? If I do this, can I then import my forums? If so how?

Need as much advice on best process without losing my forums that have 1000's of messages.

Thanks

No, you should not import your forums. You should make a copy of your database and do a practice upgrade and get your style and mods working then. Then export your style and mods, upgrade your real site, and import your style and mods.

Ok thanks. Can I get some hand holding. :)

I'm using a cpanel system and I do have root shell.

Can you tell me best way to backup and what I would backup?

I assume I would use this backup for the test site?

Also to make sure I am clear. It is best for me to clean install suite 4.0 and then once you clarify if I will be using the backup which I would need to know how to bring in the backup.

Thanks for taking the time for the details. :)

These are from the manual:
Backing Up The Database via SSH/Telnet or
Backing Up The Database via phpMyAdmin

Restoring The Database via SSH/Telnet or
Restoring The Database via phpMyAdmin

If you don't have shell access, some people have also reported success with these scripts:
MySQLDumper
MySQLHotxcopy
Bigdump


You may want to head over to vbulletin.com because the whole installation process has been discussed several times before (I think there is even an article on it).