Do I need to upgrade Umbraco?
Do you have an Umbraco website? Then you'll one day ask yourself: Is it already time to upgrade to a newer version? This is because new Umbraco versions are released regularly. But that question is not as simple as it seems. This is because the answer depends on various factors, such as the current state of your website, functionalities you need, the current Umbraco version and, of course, the risks associated with an outdated version. In this blog, we'll answer the question whether you should upgrade Umbraco and when it's not necessary yet. We'll also tell you the benefits and risks of upgrading.

What is Umbraco?
Let's start with the basics: what is Umbraco? Umbraco is an open source content management system (CMS) that runs on Microsoft .NET. It is known for its flexibility, usability and scalability. Large organizations often choose Umbraco because it supports customization and integrations well, something that standard CMSs often lack.
Benefits of Umbraco:
- User friendly back end
- Full customization possible
- Suitable for API integrations and connections
- Highly scalable and suitable for complex sites
- Open source, so no licensing costs
- SEO-friendly and technically strong
If Umbraco Platinum Partner Xuntos has been working with Umbraco for years and we build, among others Sitios web de Umbraco, customer portals, web applications and intranet environments based on this powerful CMS.
When to upgrade Umbraco
Good to know: there isn't one fixed standard rule that tells you when it's time to upgrade Umbraco, but there are several situations and signals that tell you it's time.
Below, we discuss various scenarios.
Situation 1: You're using an end-of-life Umbraco version
If you've had an Umbraco website for a while but haven't updated in a long time, you run into certain risks. Indeed, Umbraco has different versions, with limited support per release. If you're on an outdated version that no longer releases (security) updates, you're at risk, such as security vulnerabilities, browser or server incompatibility, and performance issues.
Examples of end-of-life situations:
- Umbraco 7 has been end-of-life since the end of 2023 (no more updates)
- Umbraco 8 is in the “security only” phase (essential updates only)
When to upgrade
Now. Especially when you're on Umbraco 7, it's urgent time for action. Don't you know how? Feel free to contact us. As a Platinum partner, we can literally migrate all websites to a new version.
Situation 2: You run into technical limitations
Having trouble adding new features or connecting external systems? Or do you get error messages when you want to implement certain functionality? Then this is often a sign that your CMS technology is hampering your growth. Newer Umbraco versions support modern techniques, faster APIs, and better front-end frameworks (such as headless and composable architectures).
When to upgrade
When you want to stay agile and be ready for future development.
Situation 3: Your site is slow or unstable
An outdated version of Umbraco can negatively affect your loading time and performance. Performance issues can have multiple causes, but an outdated Umbraco version is often one of the culprits. New versions of Umbraco are much better optimized for speed, caching, and scalability.
When to upgrade
If loading times increase or your site is no longer running properly. Ask your SEO specialist or website builder about this. Of course, we can also help you with this.
Situation 4: Your design is out of date and you want to renew it
An upgrade is the time to also renew your front end. If you're still working on a new design or UX revision, it makes sense to combine that with a technical upgrade. This way, you kill two birds with one stone and prevent double costs.
When to upgrade
If you're considering a redesign anyway, combine it with an upgrade to the latest Umbraco version.
When not to upgrade Umbraco
In principle, upgrading is always wise, because the latest version is the safest, fastest and offers the most options. However, it really doesn't always have to be.
Situation 1: Your site just went live on a stable version
Have you recently had a new Umbraco 10 or 11 website built? Then you don't have to upgrade (for now). These versions are still actively supported and are still receiving bug and security updates. Of course, it is allowed and possible if you want certain functionalities or benefits of newer versions.
So even if, for example, you've just had the latest version for 4 months and a new one comes out, it's really not necessary to renew immediately.
Advice:
Stay up to date with security patches, but a major version upgrade isn't necessary yet.
Situation 2: Your project has limited resources or a short lifespan
If your project is only running temporarily and no sensitive data is being processed, you can sometimes stay on a stable, older version for a while. But: keep an eye on whether security updates are still available.
Advice:
Weigh the cost-benefit ratio carefully, but remember that you will still have to upgrade in the long run.
Why an Umbraco upgrade isn't a standard job
Upgrading is more than just pressing a button. Depending on the current version, packages used and custom code, an upgrade can be quite complex. Often, there is:
- Data migration
- Package rebuild
- Adapting customized functionalities
- Redesigning hosting or infrastructure
- Retesting all components
That's why it's essential to work with a party that has experience with Umbraco migrations. Like Xuntos.
Why choose Xuntos?
When you upgrade, you want it to be safe, stable and future-oriented. Xuntos has been a specialist in customized solutions with Umbraco since 2010 and is part of the select group of Umbraco Platinum Partners. That means:
- Official certification by Umbraco HQ
- Years of experience with complex migrations
- Always up to date with the latest releases
- Technical customization tailored to your business processes
Moreover, Xuntos always works in close cooperation with customers. No black box process, but transparency, clear planning and direct involvement. Together, building a stable and future-proof solution.
Ready to upgrade?
Whether you're still on Umbraco 7 or ready to move to a composable or headless architecture, Xuntos helps you with a customized upgrade plan.
An Umbraco upgrade is not an unnecessary luxury, but a necessary step to keep your digital platform safe, fast and future-proof. Especially if you're still on Umbraco 7 or 8, now is the time to take action.
Want to make sure you need to upgrade? Then get in touch. We think along with you and ensure that your website or application is ready for the future. Stable, secure and flexible.

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