Website Rollbacks Explained: Returning to an Earlier Deployed Version
Can an earlier website version help after a bad release? A rollback can restore an earlier deployment, subject to the platform and data.
1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.
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The six points in the video
This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.
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Step 1: Identify the affected release
Confirm the problem and the version currently serving visitors.
On-screen labels: Observed problem; Current deployment; Time of release.
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Step 2: Choose a known earlier version
Find a deployment with a suitable working state.
On-screen labels: Earlier deployment; Known behaviour; Compatible version.
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Step 3: Check what the platform restores
The rollback feature has a defined scope and process.
On-screen labels: Provider instructions; Deployment scope; Access requirements.
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Step 4: Treat live data separately
Returning old code does not automatically reverse orders or database changes.
On-screen labels: Live orders; Database changes; Data compatibility.
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Step 5: Review connected configuration
Service settings and credentials may need a separate check.
On-screen labels: Service configuration; Current credentials; Compatible connections.
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Step 6: Verify the restored site
Confirm the intended version and test the affected visitor tasks.
On-screen labels: Correct deployment; Working customer task; Incident record.
A practical check for your business
Agree which previous release can be restored and what else changed alongside it. Check content, data and connected services before assuming that restoring code alone recovers the complete business task.
Sources and further detail
Common questions
Can an earlier website version help after a bad release?
A rollback can restore an earlier deployment, subject to the platform and data. Plan recovery around code, configuration and live data.
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