how to update immich

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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12-01-2025

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Immich, the open-source photo and video management solution, offers a seamless experience for organizing and accessing your media. Keeping it updated ensures you benefit from the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. This guide walks you through the process of updating your Immich server. Whether you're running Immich on a Raspberry Pi, a cloud server, or your home computer, the process is relatively straightforward.

Checking for Updates

Before initiating an update, it's crucial to check if a newer version is available. Immich conveniently handles this check internally. You can access this information through the Immich web interface:

1. Open your Immich web interface: Navigate to the address you set up during Immich's initial installation (usually something like http://your-immich-server-ip:8080).
2. Check the settings: Look for a section dedicated to "About," "System," or "Version." This section will display the current Immich version installed on your server. It should also indicate if a newer version is available for download.

Updating Immich: The Safe and Recommended Way

Immich's developers recommend using their built-in update functionality whenever possible. This is the safest method, minimizing the risk of errors and data loss. The update process typically involves these steps:

1. Initiate the Update: Within the Immich web interface, locate the update button or option. This might be clearly labeled "Update," or located within the "About" or "System" section.
2. Confirm the Update: Immich might prompt you to confirm that you wish to proceed with the update. This is a safety measure to prevent accidental updates.
3. Wait for Completion: The update process takes some time, depending on your server's resources and the size of the update. Avoid interrupting the process. Monitor the progress displayed on the interface.
4. Verify the Update: Once the update completes, Immich will usually notify you. Check the "About" or "System" section again to confirm that the version number reflects the newest release.

Important Note: Before starting any update, it's strongly recommended to back up your Immich database. While unlikely, unexpected issues can occur, and a backup provides a safety net. Consult the official Immich documentation for instructions on backing up your data.

Troubleshooting Update Issues

Occasionally, you might encounter problems during the update process. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

• Update Failure: If the update fails, check your server's logs for error messages. These logs often provide clues to identify the root cause. Consult the Immich community forums or documentation for assistance.
• Network Connectivity Issues: A stable internet connection is crucial for updates. Ensure your server has a reliable connection.
• Insufficient Disk Space: Immich needs sufficient disk space for updates and data storage. Free up space if necessary.

Updating via Docker (If Applicable)

If you've installed Immich using Docker, the update process might differ slightly. Generally, you would use the docker pull command to fetch the latest Immich image from the Docker registry. Refer to the Immich documentation specific to Docker installations for precise instructions. This will usually involve stopping the existing container, pulling the updated image, and then starting a new container from the updated image. Remember to back up your data before proceeding.

Maintaining Immich: Best Practices

Regularly updating Immich is essential for optimal performance and security. In addition to updates, these practices ensure your Immich server remains healthy and efficient:

• Regular Backups: Schedule regular backups of your Immich database and media files.
• Monitor Server Resources: Keep an eye on your server's CPU, memory, and disk space usage. Ensure it has sufficient resources to handle Immich's demands.
• Stay Informed: Subscribe to the official Immich channels (e.g., forum, changelog) to stay up-to-date on new releases and important announcements.

By following these steps and best practices, you can ensure your Immich photo and video management system remains current, secure, and performs at its best. Remember to consult the official Immich documentation for the most up-to-date and detailed instructions.