How do I test before upgrading.

[Scalemotorcars]

Ok I have two sites, one is a new 4.0.3 the other is about 5 years old and still on 3.8.4. The older one is heavily modified with VBA photopost gallery, classifieds and reviews. Im a little concerned about upgrading. I realize Ill need to revert templates and remove hacks but thats not my main concern. Over the years theres been allot of trial and error and theres at least 3 versions of tables in the database. I want to upgrade to 4.0.3 but I haven't purchased the new license for that domain.

I know its OK with VB to have a test site as long as its not public. So my question is this. Can I make a complete copy of the older site, database and all then use the 4.0.3 code from the new site to test? I would hate to spend the money for an upgrade I cant use.

Also is it possible to upload a complete 4.0.3 Suite and just add the member, posts, and attachments from a 3.8.4 version? If it can be done some pointers would be great.

Thanks for your time.

[Lynne]

Yes, you should create a test site by copying your live site database and then doing a test upgrade. There are articles on vb.com on how to create a test site from your live database.

[Scalemotorcars]

Thanks Lynne your always so helpful.

Any ideal on adding members from one site to a new installation. (old is 3.8.4 and new is 4.0.3) would version corrupt the tables if I only added the members?

And if anyone knows what tables should be copied and added?

[Lynne]

You may be able to use Impex to import users and posts. This is something to test on a test site. Your old urls will no longer work though since all threadids, postids, and userids will be different.