To ensure the security of WordPress, the CMS that the SCUA website runs on, it's critical to update the software with the newest version whenever it is released. This is also true for any plugins that are installed, whether they are currently active or not.

This first step is only possible if you can log directly into the server that runs UMarmot. It is an important step but it is not required. Only do this if you have access and comfort-level to perform the task. Otherwise, skip this step. If this step is not completed and something bad happens to the WP database during the upgrade, a backup can always be restored from tape, though some data might be lost depending on what that backup was performed.

1. Login to the scua.library.umass.edu via SSH.
2. Enter the following command:

$ mysqldump -u wordpress -p wordpress > umarmot_backup/umbackup-[YYYYMMDD].sql

Enter the current date to replace [YYYYMMDD]. You will be prompted for database password. You can find the password in this file: umarmot/wp-config.php.