Preparation

• 1). Plug your computer into a power source if you're using a non-desktop device, such as a laptop or tablet. Upgrades and transfers can utilize a lot of memory and drain your battery. You do not want to lose power partway through the upgrade or importing process.
  
  
• 2). Close all unnecessary programs. This cuts down on the memory your computer is using, which speeds up the upgrade and importing process.
  
  
• 3). Back up all "IPB" files you wish to save. Save the files on your computer, offsite server or backup disk as applicable.
  
  

Upgrade

• 1). Download the newest version of the software from Invisionpower.com. Select "IP.Board" from the Our Suite drop-down menu on the home page.
  
  
• 2). Extract the downloaded file to your computer. Note where the file is saved.
  
  
• 3). Select the extracted "Upload" folder and upload the contents into your current "IPB" directory.
  
  
• 4). Type your IP.Board address into your browser and append with /admin/upgrade/index.php.
  
  
• 5). Log in with your admin username and password and click "Next" twice to begin the upgrade.
  
  
• 6). Ensure the upgrade script has run for your previous "IPB" files. The previous databases must have been included in the upgrade to be copied into the new "IPB."
  
  

Import

• 1). Download the "IP.Downloads" add-on if you do not already have it. On Invisionpower.com's home page, select "IP.Downloads" from the Our Suite drop-down menu. Follow installation instructions.
  
  
• 2). Go to the administrator control panel within your forum board.
  
  
• 3). In Admin CP, select "My Apps."
  
  
• 4). Select "Download Manager."
  
  
• 5). Select "Tools."
  
  
• 6). Select "Bulk Import."
  
  
• 7). Find the saved "IPB" files and click "Import."
  
  
• 8). Check the functionality of your website. Browse the forums and ask any moderators for feedback as to any glaring issues or missing discussions.
  
  
• 9). Visit community.invisionpower.com to search discussions on troubleshooting, if needed.