Jumping into a TYPO3 project means first getting a clear view of its setup. You should check your TYPO3 version , confirm if it runs in Composer mode, and know where the site root is. These basics are essential before making any progress.
1. Use the Backend to Check the TYPO3 Version
Log into the TYPO3 backend with administrator access. Go to the System section and click on About. This will display the TYPO3 version and give you a quick overview of the system’s basic configuration. It’s the fastest way to check version info without touching any code.
2. Open the Install Tool for Advanced Info
The Install Tool at /typo3/install.php offers more technical details. In the Environment section, you’ll find the TYPO3 version, PHP version, and paths. If Composer is used, some of the directory structures or class loading paths will point to Composer-managed packages.
3. Check the PackageStates.php File
Go to the typo3conf directory and open the PackageStates.php file. This file lists all active TYPO3 extensions and how they are loaded. If extensions appear to be loaded from a vendor folder, then Composer is part of the setup.
4. Look for Composer Files
In Composer-based TYPO3 projects, you will find composer.json and composer.lock files in the root directory. These files list TYPO3 core packages and other dependencies. Reading them can help you understand the version in use and how the system is organized.
5. Identify the Site Root in the Backend
In the TYPO3 backend, the site root is usually the top-level page with a globe icon in the page tree. To confirm it, open the Sites module. This will show you which page is configured as the site root, along with site-specific settings like the base URL and languages.
Final Thoughts
Before making changes or planning upgrades, always take time to understand the TYPO3 environment. Knowing the TYPO3 version, checking for Composer usage, and identifying the site root will help you avoid errors and keep your work on track.