Migrating my Existing Server to a New Web Server

Posted: March 26th, 2018

 

Follow this procedure to move from your current hosting plan to an iWeb server:

 

The first step is to identify your needs:

    > Will your project require an environment running Linux or Windows?

 

           > If Linux, which release in particular ? (CentOS - Debian - Ubuntu)

 

           > If Windows, which edition?  (Standard - Datacenter )

 

   > Will you be using a database system? (MySQL - MSSQL)

 

   > Will you need a lot of bandwidth? (Internet radio, video streaming?)

 

   > How much disk space will you need?

 

   > Will a control panel be necessary? (cPanel/WHM - Plesk)

 

   > Can you manage your server yourself ?

 

Once these needs have been identified, you may contact one of our sales representatives by chat, formmail or by phone to request a quote.

 

If you are migrating within our network, be aware of the following :

 

What is a primary IP?

 

The primary IP, or main IP, is given to a specific server's location (or server ID). This IP cannot be migrated to a different location.

 

What is a secondary IP?

 

The secondary IP addresses are subnets given entirely to specific servers by routing them towards the main IP. They can be moved/routed to a different location/server, in any of our Montreal datacenters, as long as the server type does not change (they cannot be moved between Smart/Cloud/VPR/Cluster/etc).

 

What happens with my IPs during a migration?

 

The main server IP will be lost, as it must stay on the same server's ID/location. However, we can move/reroute the secondary IPs to the migration target, avoiding a DNS modification/propagation. This is valid as long as the source server is the same type as the destination server.

 

Will the migration cause an interruption of service?

 

The answer is no - If you complete the migration correctly. The process is relatively simple - You should not change your domain's DNS before the data has been migrated over to your dedicated server and has been thoroughly tested for compatibility.

 

That way, when you change the DNS, the same content will be in place at both ends (shared and dedicated) - The average user will then not see a difference between the two and you can expect your website to stay online throughout the DNS propagation.

 

The process is relatively the same for your emails. You will need to create your email addresses back onto your dedicated server before making the DNS change - That way, the emails will eventually stop being delivered onto the shared server to be sent directly to your new server. That being said, no emails will be lost during the process.

 

Do we offer migration services?

 

Yes, if you wish to leave the migration of your services to our qualified team, you can coordinate the move with our system administration staff. Do take note that some fees may apply for the migration process. You can purchase a management plan with  enough time for our administrators to complete the transfer.

 

NOTE: When transferring or adding new MS licenses (excluding Windows Server) customers can supply their own licenses but they must be accompanied by Microsoft Software Assurance.