# Upgrading to a Major Version

Upgrading a database service on Elestio can be done without creating a new instance or performing a full manual migration. Elestio provides a built-in option to change the database version directly from the dashboard. This is useful for cases where the upgrade does not involve breaking changes or when minimal manual involvement is preferred. The version upgrade process is handled by Elestio internally, including restarting the database service if required. This method reduces the number of steps involved and provides a way to keep services up to date with minimal configuration changes.

### **Log In and Locate Your Service**

To begin the upgrade process, log in to your Elestio dashboard and navigate to the specific database service you want to upgrade. It is important to verify that the correct instance is selected, especially in environments where multiple databases are used for different purposes such as staging, testing, or production. The dashboard interface provides detailed information for each service, including version details, usage metrics, and current configuration. Ensure that you have access rights to perform upgrades on the selected service. Identifying the right instance helps avoid accidental changes to unrelated environments.

### **Back Up Your Data**

Before starting the upgrade, create a backup of your database. A backup stores the current state of your data, schema, indexes, and configuration, which can be restored if something goes wrong during the upgrade. In Elestio, this can be done through the **Backups** tab by selecting **Back up now** under Manual local backups and **Download** the backup file. Scheduled backups may also be used, but it is recommended to create a manual one just before the upgrade. Keeping a recent backup allows quick recovery in case of errors or rollback needs. This is especially important in production environments where data consistency is critical.

[![Screenshot 2025-04-29 at 7.46.26 PM.jpg](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-7-46-26-pm.jpg)](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-7-46-26-pm.jpg)

### **Select the New Version**

Once your backup is secure, proceed to the **Overview** and then **Software > Update config** tab within your database service page.

[![Screenshot 2025-04-29 at 8.07.22 PM.jpg](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-8-07-22-pm.jpg)](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-8-07-22-pm.jpg)

Here, you'll find an option labeled **ENV**. In the **ENV** menu, change the desired database version to `SOFTWARE_VERSION`. After confirming the version, Elestio will begin the upgrade process automatically. During this time, the platform takes care of the version change and restarts the database if needed. No manual commands are required, and the system handles most of the operational aspects in the background.

[![Screenshot 2025-04-29 at 8.07.45 PM.jpg](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-8-07-45-pm.jpg)](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2025-04/screenshot-2025-04-29-at-8-07-45-pm.jpg)

### **Monitor the Upgrade Process**

The upgrade process may include a short downtime while the database restarts. Once it is completed, it is important to verify that the upgrade was successful and the service is operating as expected. Start by checking the logs available in the Elestio dashboard for any warnings or errors during the process. Then, review performance metrics to ensure the database is running normally and responding to queries. Finally, test the connection from your client applications to confirm that they can interact with the upgraded database without issues.