Time for an Upgrade? Drupal 7 vs Drupal 10

At APAX Software, we know how important it is for your organization to have the latest technology and security benefits for your website. With Drupal’s latest upgrade to version 11, there are big changes on the horizon that your organization should be aware of. With this newest release, Drupal has announced that as of January 5, 2025, there will no longer be any security or compatibility updates to version 7, which leaves websites built on this version vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues. That’s why our team of developers specializes in guiding businesses through the complex process of upgrading legacy sites to Drupal 10 and Drupal 11, so you can rest assured that your site is secure and user-friendly. 

With extensive experience helping organizations modernize their websites, we understand the critical need for enhanced security, streamlined user experiences, and future-proof performance. Our team of developers is equipped with the knowledge and tools to ensure a smooth transition, allowing you to harness the full potential of Drupal’s latest version. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between Drupal 7 and Drupal 10+ and help you determine if upgrading is the right decision for your business.

 

The Evolution from Drupal 7 to Drupal 10

Upgrading from Drupal 7 to Drupal 10 is no small feat, but it brings significant improvements in features, security, and performance. This upgrade is a major leap forward. If you’re considering whether an upgrade is necessary, we’ll break down the key differences and help you determine the best time to make the transition.

Drupal 10 was built with a focus on accessibility and usability. It simplifies content management for editors and site-building for developers, all while setting the stage for future innovations. Features like automatic updates and the Project Browser make it easier than ever to extend your site’s functionality. To explore Drupal 10+ in more detail, visit the official Drupal 11 page.

 

Key Differences Between Drupal 7 and Drupal 10

Security Enhancements
Drupal 7, while secure during its time, is no longer supported with updates, leaving your site vulnerable. Drupal 10 introduces stronger security with automated updates, enhanced encryption, and built-in password hashing, ensuring ongoing protection.

Architecture and Technology
Drupal 7 is built using foundational PHP technology, including Symfony components. However, it operates on an older architecture that can limit scalability for modern applications. Drupal 10 builds on this foundation by leveraging updated Symfony components, modern PHP versions, and advanced APIs, providing enhanced adaptability and efficiency for handling complex needs.

User Experience
Drupal 7’s interface is basic and can be difficult for non-technical users. Drupal 10 improves this significantly with a redesigned admin panel, a layout builder, advanced media management, and a refined WYSIWYG editor, creating a more intuitive experience.

Support and Resources
As the Drupal 7 community shrinks, finding experienced developers and support becomes more challenging. In contrast, Drupal 10 benefits from an active and growing community, ensuring continued access to resources and expertise.

SEO and Performance
Drupal 7 was designed before SEO and mobile responsiveness were top priorities. Achieving optimal SEO on Drupal 7 often requires significant customization. Drupal 10, however, comes with built-in SEO tools, mobile optimization, and improved caching, making it easier to optimize for performance and search rankings.

 

Tips for a Smooth Transition

At APAX Software, we’re committed to ensuring that your upgrade to Drupal 10 is as smooth and efficient as possible. Here’s how we guide you through each critical step:

• Site Audit: We conduct a thorough review of your current Drupal 7 site, identifying custom modules, integrations, and configurations that need adjustment for Drupal 10.
• Hosting Evaluation: Our team ensures that your hosting environment meets the new requirements for Drupal 10, guaranteeing optimal performance.
• Content Migration: We’ll manage the migration of your content and media using Drupal’s migration tools to ensure everything transfers seamlessly.
• SEO & Analytics: We’ll ensure that your SEO settings, URLs, and analytics are correctly configured, so your site’s search performance remains strong.
• Testing: Before going live, we’ll perform comprehensive testing to catch any issues early and ensure a flawless launch.

 

Is It Time for an Upgrade?

Upgrading to Drupal 10 or newer offers significant benefits, including improved security, enhanced performance, and a more streamlined user experience. For businesses aiming to modernize their digital presence, Drupal 10 is an excellent choice.

At APAX Software, we know that upgrading is a big decision. To help you determine if now is the right time, we’ve developed the Drupal Upgrade Quiz. This simple tool provides personalized insights into your site’s security, performance, and user experience, helping you assess the advantages of upgrading. Start the quiz today and take the first step toward optimizing your digital presence