Server Migration Process with Useful Tips and Important Checklists

Are you looking to migrate your server, but have no clue how to go about it? When your app or website evolves with growing traffic over a period of months and years, it goes without saying that you will need to switch servers after a certain period of time. When that time inevitably arrives, you need to be sure to follow some steps in order to complete a successful migration without a hitch.

What is a server migration?

The process of server migration includes moving or copying vital and sensitive data from one server to another while configuring the final server to replace the old one.  Server migrations, when it comes to web hosting, include database software and web server set up, copying over websites along with their configurations, as well as sending your visitors to your new server by changing DNS.

Why is server migration needed?

In this day and age when the digital revolution is sweeping the world, there is new growth and change in technology every day. Every successful brand needs to get with the times and get new technologies that can give them an edge over their competition in the market.

You should consider server migration if the host you are using right now uses an internal server that cannot handle the pressure of your ever-growing website anymore, or your third-party hosting provider is not compatible with your needs. You might also want to have more server control or you might have a problem that could prompt the move. Poor technical support could also bring about the need to upgrade your server or technology to one that has better features along with advanced security. You might also encounter pricing problems with your web hosting provider which could lead you to scout for better affordable options in the market.

Let’s take a look at all of the server migration precautions you need to take and the best way to successfully make that transition.

1. Consider the location, format, and sensitivity

Before you begin to migrate your data, take stock of your entire database that you will be migrating, where it is located and in which format, plus which format do you want it to be once the migration is complete. By having the answers to all of these points you’ll have a clear understanding of the task ahead and can accomplish it. When you are creating this blueprint, you can find out the problems that might arise in advance, instead of getting to know them in the middle of the move. It will also inform you of the security risks that are involved and the precautions that can be taken. Having a clear idea of how the migration is going to play out will help you make a smooth transition.

2. Take a stock of data fidelity

The whole process that includes taking stock of what your entire database constitutes beforehand, and then ensuring it is aptly installed once the migration is done is crucial. When you’re getting your data migration done, it could be potentially lethal to lose even a small part of your priceless data. A single connection string or CSS file lost could cause irreparable damage to your app or your whole website.

It might be a wise idea to take stock of the parts of your website that are vital and ones that are in contact with several other services. You should examine your themes and plugins that are connected to several pages before you migrate your data and after, to check if their functionality remains the same.

3. Considering the size and range of the project while planning

Once you have a good idea of the data you need to migrate, you need to have a clear understanding of the range of your data migration plan of action. Assess the resources you will need to successfully migrate your database and have a realistic budget so that you do not run out in the middle.

You can observe the target and source system in depth to figure out a realistic timeline for your project. Take into consideration if your everyday business operations will be hampered in any way by the data migrations or cause any amount of downtime. You can instead decide to schedule your migration after hours or perhaps on holidays like the weekend.

Conclusion

Server migration sounds easy in theory but has hidden complexities when it comes to execution. Thankfully, these are aspects that people can learn and employ. On the other hand, you could also hire an expert or professional to migrate your server for you or guide you accordingly.

Once you consider all of these factors, you can make up your mind on which migration suits you the best. While you’re making your decision you need to consider your investment in infrastructure and hardware, as well as the performance of your application and other problems. If you have set your mind to server migration and figured out the best plan, go for it.