Converting Pre-v.7 Web Databases
An upgrade as useful as the new version 7 IWP has to have a catch, and this one does: there is no logical way to upgrade an existing published file. Because version 7 databases are not backwards compatible, neither is the new version of IWP. Web Styles are not supported and neither is Web SecurityFileMaker's new accounts and access privileges, which are far more secure, have taken their place. Even the URL linking rules have changed.So, you'll need to convert your pre-v.7 database in FileMaker to the new .fp7 file format. In all probability, any database you've been successfully publishing with version 6's IWP will convert seamlessly. To be sure, check that all its scripts and layouts work, and publish the converted file from scratch. You'll find that the redo is much simpler than the original process had been, and you'll be thrilled with the result.
Web-Savvy File Planning
If you'll be publishing a database on the Web, consider these technical requirements before you begin:File names should adhere to the 8.3 conventionan 8 character name and a 3 character extension.File, field, and layout names should not contain spaces. Use underscores (Shift+hyphen) instead.Limit your users to alphanumeric characters for their account names and passwords. Many special char acters are not handled properly in browsers.Design your layouts to be Web compatible. Avoid fancy patterns, text styles, or button shapes.
