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The version of Xoops you are running is very old and likely full of problems.
Depending on how much you want to save from the site there is quite a difference between where you are and where you want to go.
Your SIMPLEST way to do this if you have spammers and a bunch of other issues is to start over from scratch.
Look at what the modules you are using are being used for and look for more modern versions of the same modules or ones that will perform the same functions for things you still want to do.
Install a program such as xampp or wamp onto your windows based machine. Mamp I believe if you are on a mac or make sure the LAMP modules are installed if you are using a linux machine.
The idea is to try making a new system on your machine at home to test out features, compatibility and function. When you are ready to go you can move from this "test server" onto your normal server. You CAN actually develop the whole site at home and just move this to the "hot" server if you know what you are doing but you can at least do the work at home first to see how much you want to do...
I would suggest moving up to xoops version 2.4.5 for now. I have seen a few inconsistencies with 2.5 to trust it fully for MY HOST although I do have a site running on it. If you want to give it a try however you CAN install it on your home server and see how it works.. And it would be simple to move from 2.4.5 to 2.5 if you decide to do so.
Hope this makes sense..
Rodney
Attending College working towards Bachelors in Software Engineering and Network Security.
