Update Your Joomla Extensions

What is an extension?

Joomla is a CMS, a program for building websites. An extension is an add-on for it. There are several kinds. A component adds a big feature. A module shows a small box. A plugin adds hidden helper tasks. A template changes the design.

Developers release updates to fix bugs and close security holes. An old extension can let hackers in. Updating is important.

Warning: An update can sometimes break a site. Take a full backup of your files and database first.

Steps

1. Log in to your Joomla admin area at yourdomain.com/administrator.
2. Go to System. In the Maintenance area, look for Update and click Extensions.
3. If the list is empty, click Find Updates. Joomla will look for new versions.
4. Tick the extensions you want to update.
5. Click Update.
6. Wait for the green success message.
7. Open your site and check the main pages.

On Joomla 3 the menu path is Extensions, then Manage, then Update. Labels may vary slightly.

If the list says nothing is found

• Click Clear Cache on the same page, then Find Updates.
• Some paid extensions need an update key. Open System, then Update Sites, and enter the key from the seller.
• Check that the update site is enabled in Update Sites.

If an extension has no auto update

1. Download the new ZIP file from the developer's website.
2. Go to System, then Install, then Extensions.
3. Choose the Upload Package File tab and drag the ZIP file there.
4. Joomla installs it over the old version and keeps your settings in most cases.

If something breaks

1. Restore your backup.
2. Check if the extension supports your Joomla and PHP version.
3. Ask the extension's developer, or ask Hostvento support about server settings.

Quick recap

• Extensions are add-ons for Joomla.
• Back up first.
• Open System, Update, Extensions and click Update.
• Upload a ZIP by hand if there is no auto update.
• Test your site after each update.