Possible big, scary changes

[Basil]

The server I'm running on is using an OS that has reached end of life (no future security updates, or support). As a result, I will likely need to move to a more modern server operating system in the not-too-distant future. Some of the modules like PHP and MySQL that this forum uses will also be updated (This forum will not run on the newest versions of PHP and MySQL).

As a result, I am considering 1) moving to a new server/ OS and also upgrading to the newest version of this forum's software (The newest version of this software will not run on this current OS).

This is not going to be a trivial undertaking (well, at least not trivial for me). I'm going to try to make a non-public copy of this forum, including the database, and try the upgrade on that test copy first to see what sorts of bugs or issue I will have. Only when I'm comfortable with the upgrade will I upgrade the live site. No matter what I do there are bound to be some bumps along the way. For one thing, I have a whole boatload of third-party "plug-ins" that give this forum a lot of special functionality that the new forum will not have. Things that will go away (at least for a while):

The "contribute" button up tp uses a plug in that won't be available

No more smashing Christmas Lights (it wasn't working anyway)

As Admin I don't know if I'll be able to make Global threads (Topics that appear in ever forum)...unless that is built in to the new software

I have a very good Anti-Spam plug in that prevents spammers from easily registering (I'm hoping there will be some suitable replacement or the new software has something built in

Topic Prefixes may not be clickable to filter a forum on a specific prefix like you can now

No more "Spoiler" BB Code (The code that allows you to hide text in a post until someone clicks to reveal)

The "Thank You" function on the bottom of posts will go away (hope the new software has something similar built-in)

Custom Pages will go away initially but I'll be able to rebuild most of them (British Car Clubs, Subscribe, BCF Business Cards page, Privace Statement, Forum Rules) are all currently "Custom Pages" made with a plug-in of the same name.

That little counter at the bottom of the forum with the stats on how long BCF has been online - that will go away.

All the fun smilies will probably go away until I replace them.

If you have an Avatar picture, that should remain, but profile pictures will not remain. Not sure about pictures in your signature.

This isn't going to happen tomorrow, but it is going to happen...just wanted to give you all a heads up

Basil

 

[HealeyRick]

We can put a man on the moon and we can't have smashing Christmas lights? Good luck with the move, Bas. Sounds like a lot of work. Thanks for what you do.

 

[John Turney]

Having rebuilt and operated a much simpler website, I'm glad it's not me. THANK YOU, BAS!!!

 

[Frank Canale]

Thank you Basil for all you do to keep the forum a safe community to exchange thoughts and ideas. Let us know if we can help with the expense of the upgrade and to compensate you for your time and knowledge that keeps the forum running so smooth. Frank

 

[NutmegCT]

Sounds like a major headache for sure.

Will the new platform include all the photos and files we've previously "attached" to BCF server posts?

Tom M.

 

[Basil]

Sounds like a major headache for sure.

Will the new platform include all the photos and files we've previously "attached" to BCF server posts?

Tom M.

As far as I know, yes, all the file's and attachments you've uploaded should remain. The interface will be very similar to what you're used to on the current version, with a few subtile differences. It will take some getting used to I'm sure.

 

[NutmegCT]

Basil, thanks.

The only constant thing in the world, is change.

Tom M.

 

[DrEntropy]

What a PITA!! Sorry to hear it. A lot of effort, for sure. Newer warez will certainly have up-to-date security features, but it'll be a boatload of work to relearn the ins-n-outs of new versions.

 

[waltesefalcon]

Bas, I know that you'll get us taken care of and that the forum will continue to be the best car forum around after you upgrade.

 

[Basil]

Bas, I know that you'll get us taken care of and that the forum will continue to be the best car forum around after you upgrade.

There is at least a possibility that I may actually endup not just upgrading the current software, but I've been entertaining moving to a completely different platform. Lot's to consider though before I decide.

 

[glemon]

This is exciting, please retain the ability to post pictures without having them hosted somewhere else. I still haven't recovered from the Photobucket deal.

Biggest concern, I may have to login fresh and remember my password.

 

[Basil]

This is exciting, please retain the ability to post pictures without having them hosted somewhere else. I still haven't recovered from the Photobucket deal.

Biggest concern, I may have to login fresh and remember my password.

Absolutely! The image -adding process for the new software is MUCH better than the clunky system we have now!


Yes, you will probably need to remember your password (or request a reset)

 

[glemon]

Thanks--I am sure it will all work fine, thanks for all the hard work.

 

[Frank Canale]

Basil, Thank you for the new server. First post since the change and worked flawlessly. Frank

 

[Basil]

Basil, Thank you for the new server. First post since the change and worked flawlessly. Frank

Thanks Frank, glad it's working ok. Making a move to a different server is always a little bit of a chore (and nerve wracking because you never know what sort of issues are going to pop up). The next step is to migrate to a new forum software - I think folks are going to like what's coming (hope so anyway).

 

[Basil]

Well, as you all probably know by now, the move to the new server and the switch to new forum platform has been completed (for the most part). I'm going to close this thread now.