ProWebCare Joomla is a powerful, flexible CMS used by millions of websites worldwide. But like any software, it requires regular updates to stay secure, performant, and compatible with modern web standards.
The Real Cost of Skipping Updates
I've cleaned over 3,000 hacked websites in my career, and in most cases, the vulnerability that allowed the hack was in outdated software. Joomla sites running old versions are like houses with unlocked doors—eventually, someone will find a way in.
Security Vulnerabilities
Joomla's security team actively identifies and patches vulnerabilities. When you skip updates, you're essentially leaving known security holes open for hackers to exploit. Each update includes security patches for discovered vulnerabilities.
Performance Issues
Newer versions of Joomla include performance improvements, bug fixes, and optimizations. Running outdated versions means you're missing out on speed improvements that could reduce your bounce rate and improve user experience.
Compatibility Problems
As hosting environments, PHP versions, and third-party extensions evolve, older Joomla versions become incompatible. This can lead to broken functionality, security warnings, and eventually, complete site failure.
What Gets Updated in Joomla?
Core Updates
Joomla core updates include security patches, bug fixes, new features, and performance improvements. These should be applied as soon as possible, especially security releases.
Extension Updates
Extensions (components, modules, plugins) also receive updates for security, compatibility, and features. Outdated extensions can create security vulnerabilities even if your core is up-to-date.
Template Updates
Templates may receive updates to fix bugs, improve compatibility, or add new features. Keeping templates updated ensures your site looks and functions correctly.
Best Practices for Joomla Updates
1. Always Backup First
Never update without a fresh backup. If something goes wrong, you'll need to restore quickly to minimize downtime.
2. Test on Staging
If possible, test updates on a staging environment first. This allows you to identify compatibility issues before they affect your live site.
3. Update Regularly
Don't wait months between updates. Security patches should be applied immediately, and regular updates prevent small issues from becoming major problems.
4. Check Extension Compatibility
Before updating Joomla core, verify that your extensions are compatible with the new version. Contact extension developers if you're unsure.
5. Monitor After Updates
After updating, check your site thoroughly. Test forms, payment systems, and critical functionality to ensure everything works correctly.
When Things Go Wrong
Sometimes updates cause issues—a plugin breaks, functionality stops working, or the site becomes slow. This is where having an expert on hand pays off.
At ProWebCare, we handle all Joomla updates for our clients. We test updates in staging environments, handle conflicts, and ensure your site stays secure and fast. Plus, if something does go wrong, we're there to fix it immediately.
Final Thoughts
Regular Joomla maintenance isn't optional—it's essential. If you're running a Joomla site, commit to regular updates or partner with experts who can handle it for you.
Need help with Joomla maintenance? We specialize in both WordPress and Joomla. Contact us to learn how we can keep your Joomla site secure and updated automatically.