Advice on server migration

[messi]

Hi there,

We're looking at switching from a dedicated server running WHM / Cpanel to the amazon ec2 platform.

one issue we have is that we have around 50 accounts (most are client accounts) with over 300 domains hosted on our server.

I don't feel it will be practical to ask each client to go and change all their domain name server details - and I'm positive many would have no idea how to.

I'm not sure on the best way to approach the migration. My biggest concern is avoiding downtime.

One big consideration we have is that nearly every single site is database driven and many have ecommerce on them so data integrity is an issue during the migration. In other words we can't just have a site sitting there taking order and then switch over to the new server since this would result in data loss.

Also how do we work around the issue of clients not having to update the name server details in their control panels?

Can anyone suggest a step by step plan for migrating in this circumstance?

Thanking you in advance.

[TWeber_TheSBA]

I can't offer a step by step guide. But from speaking of customers that have done this in our dedicated environment, if it all possible you should migrate the sites at a time where the least amount of ecommerce orders takes place. Perhaps late at night?

It's also good customer service to communicate this move to your clients. Some downtime may occur, and customers that are informed before of possible downtime are going to easier to work with.

I would change the name servers yourself if possible for alot less headaches. Leave the old server up as the name server propogation is occurring should help minimize downtime for the sites as well. Good luck with the move!

[prashant0072]

Nice Article and thanks for sharing this info with us and hopping more from you.

[alok5791]

useful information,thanks for sharing with us