How do I test an update without risking my live site?
Make a copy: back up with Akeeba Backup, restore it on a staging subdomain with Kickstart, and update the copy first.
Why test first
Most update problems come from one extension or a template override. On a copy you can find and fix them calmly, and note the exact steps that worked for the live site.
Make a test copy
- Install Akeeba Backup and make a full backup (files + database). Download the
.jpafile. - Create a subdomain (for example test.example.com) or use a local server, and an empty database.
- Upload the
.jpafile and Kickstart (kickstart.php), open kickstart.php in the browser and follow the steps with the new database details. - Protect the copy: turn on Site Offline in Global Configuration or password-protect the folder, so search engines don't index it.
- Run the update on the copy and click through everything.
Good to know
- Turn off outgoing email on the copy (Global Configuration → Server → Send Mail: No) so it doesn't email your users.
- Delete the copy when you are done, or keep it updated too.
Sources
- Backup – Joomla User Guide
- Akeeba Kickstart – Akeeba
- Joomla 5 to 6 Planning and Upgrade Step by Step – Joomla User Guide
