Setting up a test forum

[aisling]

Hello - I was wondering if there is a thread, Resource, or discussion anywhere here that covers how to set up a test forum step-by-step - and this would be on the server, not locally/PC because another admin will need access.

I did a search and looked in the Manual, and couldn't find such a guide, although I did find these somewhat helpful threads:

http://xenforo.com/community/threads/test-forums-interfere-with-live-forums.23645/
http://xenforo.com/community/threads/xenforos-handing-of-cookie-domains.15260/
http://xenforo.com/community/threads/upgrading-test-forum-locking-live-forum.32918/

I do have some questions on the process in case there is not such a thread. My understanding is that I need to:

• Set up new directory and copy all the forum files to it
• Create a new database for that directory in cPanel
• Take a copy of my existing/live database and restore it to this new database
• Change the cookie prefix

What order should these steps be done in and have I left anything out? Just want to ensure I don't mess up my live forum in the process or cause any problems for the forum users.

Also, what is the shell command I need to use for the restore assuming I'm typing this into PuTTY and will have a separate database user (let's say it's frank476).

Any guidance appreciated.

 

[Neil E.]

backup/restore http://xenforo.com/community/resources/how-to-backup-and-restore-your-forum-linux-windows.359/

 

[Jake Bunce]

What order should these steps be done in and have I left anything out?

Don't forget to edit the library/config.php file at the new location to point to the new database.

Change the cookie prefix

I usually setup test forums at different subdomains. That avoids cookie conflicts entirely.