upgrading from rc4 to rc5

[Turbenator]

What is the best way to update from rc4 to rc5.  Do I need to uninstall all packages 1st? Can I just run upgrade.php ? 

Thank you.

[Spoogs]

It's probably best to uninstall your mods to avoid hiccups (mods usually become uninstalled during the upgrade process)
Upgrading SMF

[redone]

I usually leave them and just re-install. Either way typically works though. The most important advice is to have an updated backup of your database and all your files before upgrading.

~RedOne

[Turbenator]

Thank you

[Spoogs]

I usually leave them as well but some folks have reported upgrading then some weirdness with mods appearing to be installed after the upgrade even tho they shouldnt be.

[Turbenator]

Okay, I'm a bit nervous about doing this.  The way I understand it is I unzip the small package since I am upgrading from rc4 to rc5   then upload all files and folders from the zip file to /forums folder. If I overwrite existing folders, wont all my attachments and avatars etc get overwritten?

[Spoogs]

You understand it right and no you wont lose those

[Turbenator]

I trust ya Spoogs............here goes....(crossing my fingers) 

[Spoogs]

you can do it

[Turbenator]

Sorry I didnt post back here earlier. Worked flawlessly. Thanks for your assistance and quick responses.