Countdown to Umbraco 8 End-of-Life.

What it means for your business and how to prepare

As we approach February 2025, a significant milestone looms for many businesses using Umbraco 8 as their content management system (CMS). This date marks the end-of-life (EOL) for Umbraco 8, which demands attention and action from website owners and developers alike. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the implications of this transition, the solutions available, and how GrowCreate can help you navigate this change seamlessly.

It's important to understand that software having an end-of-life (EOL) is an ordinary and necessary part of the software development lifecycle. Here's why:

• Technological advancements: As technology evolves rapidly, older software versions become outdated and less efficient than newer alternatives.
• Resource allocation: Software companies must focus on developing and maintaining newer versions to stay competitive and provide better solutions.
• Security considerations: Newer versions often include improved security features to address emerging threats, making it crucial to phase out older, potentially vulnerable versions.
• Performance improvements: Updated software typically offers better performance and stability, encouraging users to migrate to newer versions.
• Ecosystem compatibility: As other technologies and integrations evolve, older software versions may become incompatible with the broader tech ecosystem.

By establishing EOL dates, all software providers ensure that users know the need to upgrade, helping maintain a more secure and efficient digital landscape. This practice also encourages innovation and continuous improvement in the software industry.

Understanding the Problem: Umbraco 8 End-of-Life

Umbraco 8 has served businesses well since its release and is reaching the end of its supported lifecycle. Here's what you need to know:

• The final minor version, Umbraco 8.18, was released in February 2022.
• Full version support ended in February 2024.
• Only security updates will be provided until February 2025.
• After February 2025, all updates and support for Umbraco 8 will cease.

What Does End-of-Life Mean for Your Business?

The end-of-life of a software version is more than just a technical milestone. It has significant implications for businesses:

• Security Risks: No more security patches means your website becomes increasingly vulnerable to new threats.
• Compliance Issues: Lack of updates may compromise your compliance with data protection regulations.
• Performance Degradation: An outdated CMS can lead to slower performance and a poor user experience as the web evolves.
• Feature Limitations: You'll miss out on new features and improvements in newer Umbraco versions.

Solutions: Upgrading or Rebuilding with GrowCreate

At GrowCreate, we understand that every business has unique needs. That's why we offer tailored solutions to address the Umbraco 8 EOL challenge:

1. Upgrade Path

For websites with minimal customizations, we can guide you through the upgrade process:

• Assess your current Umbraco 8 implementation
• Plan a step-by-step upgrade to the latest supported version
• Ensure all features and integrations are compatible and functional

2. Website Rebuild

For businesses looking to revamp their online presence:

• Redesign your website with modern UX/UI principles
• Rebuild on the latest Umbraco version for optimal performance
• Implement new features and functionalities to enhance user experience

3. Consultation and Strategy

Which path to take? Our experts offer:

• In-depth analysis of your current website and business goals
• Customised recommendations for upgrading or rebuilding
• A long-term strategy for maintaining and evolving your web presence

Why Choose GrowCreate?

As Umbraco Platinum partners, we bring unparalleled expertise to your project:

• Deep understanding of Umbraco's ecosystem and best practices
• Experienced team of certified Umbraco developers
• Proven track record of successful upgrades and rebuilds
• Comprehensive approach covering design, development, and strategy

Our Success Stories

We are an Umbraco Platinum Partner and have been a Umbraco Gold Partner since 2014. We help businesses navigate CMS transitions, upgrade and 24/7 support and maintenance. Some of our notable clients include:

• Mercedes Benz
• NHS Providers
• Quintet Private Bank
• Flagstone
• Thirtyone:eight

These projects showcase our ability to handle complex upgrades and deliver outstanding results for businesses of all sizes.

Take Action Now

Don't wait until the last minute to address your Umbraco 8 EOL concerns. Here's how you can get started:

Book a Free Consultation

We're offering a complimentary 60-minute session to discuss your Umbraco implementation and provide expert advice on the best path forward. During this session, we'll:

• Assess your current Umbraco setup
• Discuss your business goals and requirements
• Provide initial recommendations for upgrading or rebuilding
• Answer any questions you have about the process

Request an Audit

For a more in-depth analysis, our Umbraco-certified developers can perform a comprehensive audit of your CMS. This will help us understand your current website in detail and provide you with:

• A detailed report on your Umbraco 8 implementation
• Specific recommendations for upgrading or rebuilding
• An indicative budget based on your chosen approach

Conclusion

The Umbraco 8 end-of-life presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. By acting now, you can ensure a smooth transition to a more secure, efficient, and feature-rich CMS. GrowCreate guides you every step of the way, from initial consultation to final implementation.

Ready to Secure Your Website's Future?

Don't let the Umbraco 8 EOL catch you off guard. Contact GrowCreate today to schedule your free consultation or request an audit. Let's work together to transform this technical necessity into a strategic advantage for your business.

Book a 30-minute consultation with our Umbraco experts today.