As of a few days ago, the total number of files on the server hosting UKB was 344,615, far exceeding the allowable limit (based on the web hosting package) of 300,000. The vast majority of files are the result of images found in the Personal Diaries, where a thumbnail and separate larger image is created on the server for every photo attached.
The Personal Diaries are an incredible resource that should be retained for posterity, especially since they can be searched. And so I've improved the archiving mechanism whereby images are removed from older posts, while at the same time creating a PDF for each diary and year so that those images can, at least, be seen in some form. After archiving 2016, 2017 and 2018, almost 100,000 files have been removed from the server, and we're well below the 300,000 file limit. It's been a bit of a slog but will be worth it in the long run.
One enhancement is that each archived post will now show a message that emphasises that the post has been archived, while also providing a link to the relevant archive PDF. For example:
I've also taken some time to update the entire 'ecosystem' with the latest versions of PHP, MySql and the forums now active. I've not really touched things for a few years so it was about time!
Any issues then do let me know!
Cheers,
- Pete