Service migration can seem extremely confusing if you are unfamiliar with the process. However, there’s no need to panic. In this blog, we’ll summarise everything you need to know about server migration, from the time it takes to its many benefits. 

So how long does a server migration take? Typically, server migrations can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. This is because the time spent migrating servers will depend heavily upon the amount of data being transferred. Servers only have a certain amount of bandwidth, therefore, the more files and applications being migrated, the longer the process will take. 

Read on to find out more about server migration and where to get help with this process.

How Long Does a Server Migration Typically Take? 

Server migration time is dependent on various factors. These factors are also dependent on the team carrying out the migration. Here are the key elements that directly affect server migration time:

  • Amount of data to be migrated – The more data, the longer the migration time.
  • Accesses, or lack of them – Clients often forget or are unaware of previous accesses to the present server. This information is important and can take a long time to gather.
  • Speed of servers and internet connections – The source server, from which data is transferred, is sometimes a bottleneck so the time it takes to transmit files can become very slow. 
  • Outdated software – Migrating from a website that hasn’t been updated in a long time and won’t work with the latest technologies after migration.

Experts recommend that a realistic timescale for more complex but regularly used email, document management, and communications systems is about 1-2 months. For even more complex server configurations, the process is more likely to take about 4 months because this component of the migration would be done separately from the system migration. On top of this, you would have to consider the time it would take to complete the necessary testing and training to finish the procedure. 

 

When Should you Migrate your Server? 

So how do you know when exactly your server needs migrating? Here is a list of possible causes for a server migration:

  • Old and slow server computer.
  • Insufficient space for the server to store data and applications.
  • Upgrading server data to a new one.
  • To protect company data from server crashes or outdated server machines.
  • Improve the speed of the server computer and optimise company website loading performance.

Why Should I Consider a Server Migration?

There are many different scenarios that make server migration necessary. Here are some of the main reasons why organisations migrate: 

  1. To take advantage of new technology or better services, ensuring that their operating system and hardware remain up to date.
  2. To move to the cloud for increased flexibility.
  3. To economise and consolidate hosting – reducing Capital Expenditure or CapEx (the money invested by a company to obtain or upgrade fixed, physical or non consumable assets).
  4. To replace ageing infrastructure at the end of its lifecycle. 
  5. To expand and distribute hosting to help reduce load and achieve high availability.

What are The Benefits of a Server Migration? 

Here are some benefits of carrying out a server migration:

Quicker Deployments 

By carrying out a server migration, you should have the capacity to convey your applications and administrations more efficiently. 

Upgraded Security Features

The majority of server migration services deal with many security issues like keeping undesirable activity away from the machine where your information is stored. 

Flexibility and Collaboration for Staff 

After completing a server migration, your team won’t have to send, refresh or settle issues with any of the different machines being utilised. It is more flexible because you do not need to be nearby. 

How Do I Plan For a Server Migration?

When planning operations around your server migration, here are some things to take into consideration: 

  • Alleviate some tension by planning ahead for the migration. Instructing your team to start thinking about data migrations early is crucial.
  • Before beginning server migration, create and test a backup. 
  • Remember to stick to your plan (one of the biggest mistakes is to abandon a migration process mid way through)
  • Testing at each phase is key as it achieves the best possible results. 

At 777, we understand that in most cases, an on-premise server is just what you need to get the job done. That’s why our server management service helps you choose the right server before installing it. We even offer continued server support if anything is amiss after installation. 

How Can a Service Provider Help with Server Migrations? 

Service providers can address significant pain points for potential customers by offering to help with migrations. 

Here are some of the ways a service provider can help:

  • Work with your team to ensure all relevant information is identified.
  • Give you an idea of how long the various steps will take.
  • Anticipate some of the questions your team is eager to ask.
  • Offer detailed knowledge of all the components that make up a server migration.
  • Experts’ knowledge of storage, networking and operating systems involved in server migration is invaluable for this process.
  • Service providers can help companies reduce time, effort and money put into the server migration process. This is because teams can dedicate so much time and money, only to find themselves on the wrong server solution.

 

Server Support Services at 777 Networks

Here at 777 Networks, we know how crucial a successful server migration is to the health of your organisation. As part of our server support services we’ll: 

  • Work with you to get a better understanding of the server’s day-to-day role and the environment it will be used in.
  • Once the server is installed, we’ll provide you with a solid server support contract based on hard data delivered by the very engineers and technicians that built the unit. 

Our Server Support cover levels and Service Level Agreements are matched to your requirements. Server Level Agreements vary from next day business services to 24/7 service availability so you can rest assured that your business can keep running no matter what. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with our friendly team today to find out everything you need to know about your server needs. 

FAQs

What is Server Migration?

Server migration is the term used to describe copying or moving critical data from one server to another, configuring that target server to replace the first. 

 

What Should You Avoid During Server Migration? 

During a server migration, here are a few things to bear in mind:

  • Avoid scheduling a move immediately before a critical period for your business (e.g Black Friday)
  • Migrations should generally be performed during off-hours or times when a minimal amount of business is expected. 
  • Avoid starting a migration until the exploration period is complete. 
  • Notify staff outside of the migration team about the migration (you may need to inform staff of the timeframe where IT personnel can assist with the initial set-up.)