The built-in update function introduced in Joomla 2.5 is a great leap forward in simplifying Joomla version maintenance and generally works just fine [1]. Except sometimes, when you know there's a newer version available, but the update checker remains unconvinced.
We just have to provide a little encouragement and everything will be fine.
These examples are from a Joomla 2.5 installation with the Bluestork - Default administration template; I haven't confirmed that the same issue exists in the 3.x series.
The Symptom
On the Control Panel page, the Joomla update checker thinks the Joomla is up to date with version 2.5.17, but I know from other sources that 2.5.20 is available.
The Resolution
- In the update manager (Extensions/Extension Manager)
- Click 'Purge cache' in the toolbar
- Which returns an odd message like
The number of sites enabled may be different. - Back on the Control Panel, the update checker now realises that change is in the air
- Run the update as usual (click the button) [2]
- And then proceed with updating any extensions
You may want to clear the cache again just in case...
References
1 Of course you still do backups don't you...
2 I really mean it about doing backups.
