How to Import an Old IPB to a New IPB

Upgrade software often to ensure an easy transition between versions.

"Invision Power Board" is a community software, which allows users to build and customize forums and discussion boards. The software is often updated with new features and enhancements, with the latest update including hundreds of improvements as per the company's website. Importing old "IPB" files into your newly updated software can save you countless hours of work and prevent disruption in your community forum.

Things You'll Need

• IP downloads (add-on)

Instructions

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.

References

• Invision Power Services: Invision Power Board Getting Started Guide
• Invision Power Services: Import Old Database Into New Installation Possible?
• Invision Power Services: IPS Community Suite What's New

Resources

• Invision Power Services Community: IP Board Technical Support