[[_prep_migration]]

== Preparing for upgrading

Perform the following steps before you upgrade the server.

.Procedure
. Back up the old installation, such as configuration, themes, and so on.
. Handle any open transactions and delete the `data/tx-object-store/` transaction directory.

. Back up the database using instructions in the documentation for your relational
  database.
+
The database will no longer be compatible with the old server after you upgrade the server. If you need to revert the upgrade, first restore the old installation, and then restore the database from the backup copy.

[WARNING]
====
After upgrade of {project_name}, except for offline user sessions, user sessions are lost. Users will have to log in again.
====
