# Updating Drupal

> Keep your Drupal site secure and up to date by updating it with Drush, Softaculous or a manual file replacement.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/drupal/updating-drupal/

Keeping your Drupal installation updated is critical for **security, stability, and access to new features**. On **ruachost.com**, you can update Drupal using Drush, Softaculous, or manual methods.

## Why Update Drupal?

- **Security** → Updates patch vulnerabilities and protect your site from attacks.
- **Stability** → Bug fixes improve reliability and reduce errors.
- **Features** → New releases include enhancements and functionality improvements.

## Methods to Update Drupal

### Method 1: Update with Drush

1. Log in to your server via **SSH**.
2. Navigate to your Drupal installation directory.
3. Run the following command:

   ```
   drush up
   ```
4. Drush will download and apply the latest updates.
5. Clear caches:

   ```bash
   drush cache-rebuild
   ```

✅ Fast and ideal for automation (can be scheduled via cron).

### Method 2: Update with Softaculous

1. Log in to your **ruachost.com  Hosting Panel**.
2. Go to **Softaculous Apps Installer → Drupal**.
3. If an update is available, you’ll see an **Update** option.
4. Click **Update** and follow the prompts.

✅ Simple and user‑friendly, recommended for beginners.

### Method 3: Manual Update

1. Back up your site (files + database).
2. Download the latest Drupal version from Drupal.org.
3. Extract the files locally.
4. Replace all files in your Drupal installation **except**:

   - `/sites` directory (contains your configuration).
   - `settings.php` file.
5. Run the update script:

   ```
   https://example.com/update.php
   ```
6. Follow the on‑screen instructions.

✅ Recommended for advanced users who need full control.

## Important Notes

- Always back up your site before updating.
- Test updates on a staging environment before applying to production.
- Clear caches after updates to avoid conflicts.