Execute full system snapshots before touching any files. Go to System > Tools > Backups, click on one of the following: System Backup, Database, and Media Backup or Database Backup, depending on what you want to backup.
You can create compressed archives including hidden files:
tar --exclude=./var/cache --exclude=./var/page_cache -czvf /backup/magento_files_$(date +%d%m%Y).tgz .For database preservation, use mysqldump with transaction consistency:
mysqldump --single-transaction -u [user] -p [dbname] | gzip > /backup/magento_db_$(date +%d%m%Y).sql.gzStaging Environment ReplicationEstablish a staging environment that precisely mirrors production specifications, including identical PHP versions, server configurations, and cron schedules. Restore your backups to this isolated environment, ensuring all customizations and active extensions are replicated. This sandbox becomes your testing ground for validating both patch installation and post-update functionality without business disruption.
Infrastructure Readiness VerificationConduct thorough system diagnostics to eliminate pre-existing issues that might complicate patching. Compile dependencies and deploy static content:
bin/magento setup:di:compile && bin/magento setup:static-content:deploy -fReindex all data and scrutinize system logs for anomalies:
bin/magento indexer:reindex && tail -n 100 var/log/system.logConfirm adequate storage space (minimum 200% of current installation size) and optimal PHP memory allocation exceeding 2GB.
Version Control ConfigurationIf utilizing Git, commit all current changes to create a restoration point:
git add -A && git commit -m "Pre-patch baseline: $(date +%Y%m%d)"Establish a dedicated branch for the update procedure to isolate changes:
git checkout -b security-patch/MDVA-XXXX_implementationThis creates a controllable environment for change management and potential rollbacks.
Patch Authentication and Integrity ChecksWhen acquiring the patch file from Magento Security Center, always verify cryptographic signatures. Compare published SHA-256 checksums against your downloaded file:
echo "<official_checksum> security-patch.sh" | sha256sum -c -Reject files showing checksum mismatches or obtained from unofficial channels. Store original patch files in secure, version-controlled directories separate from production code.
Rollback Strategy FormulationDocument explicit recovery procedures covering code reversion, database restoration, and cache management. Outline command sequences for:
- Immediate maintenance mode activation
- Git reset operations or file restoration paths
- Database import from pre-patch backups
- Cache and session flushing mechanisms
- Validation tests confirming full functionality restoration
Critical Implementation PrincipleAlways execute patch installations first in your staging environment, allocating sufficient time for unexpected complications. Monitor resource utilization during test deployments and validate all checkout processes, payment integrations, and administrative functions before considering production deployment. Maintain detailed change logs documenting every action taken during the preparation phase.