> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.optimumsec.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.optimumsec.xyz/coding/plugin-for-safe-upgrades.md).

# Use a Plugin for Safe Upgrades

When setting up a proxy for a contract, there are specific restrictions concerning the contract's code. Notably, the contract mustn't include a constructor, and it's advised to steer clear of utilizing operations like selfdestruct or delegatecall due to security considerations.

In addition, storage variables in the proxy can potentially be overwritten when deploying new versions of the implementation contract. This happens because the storage layout of the proxy and implementation must remain consistent across upgrades. Any mismatch in storage variable declarations or order can result in overwritten or corrupted data, leading to unpredictable behavior.

It is highly recommended to use a [plugin](https://docs.openzeppelin.com/upgrades-plugins/1.x/) that ensures the newly introduced contract complies with the safe upgrades rules.


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.optimumsec.xyz/coding/plugin-for-safe-upgrades.md?ask=<question>&goal=<endgoal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.