Migration - Checklist

Checklist for Migrating a Competitions Website to Our Server

To ensure a smooth and secure migration of the site, the following steps need to be completed before and during the migration process:

Pre-Migration Requirements:

1. Domain Login Access

    

   • Ensure that we have full access to the domain registrar account. This is essential in case any DNS or domain-level changes are required during or after the migration.

      

2. Cloudflare Integration

    

   • Confirm that the domain is already using Cloudflare as its nameserver (NS) provider. This allows us to manage DNS records more efficiently and switch servers instantly without downtime.

      

   • Add the domain to our Cloudflare account so we can configure and manage DNS settings during and after the migration.

      

3. Gridpane Server Setup

    

   • Make sure the new server environment on Gridpane is fully set up and ready to receive the migrated site. This includes a fresh WordPress install, proper server configuration, and security settings in place.

      

4. Current Server (Cloudways) Prepared for Migration

    

   • The existing site on Cloudways should be stable and ready for data export. Backup tools or migration plugins should be in place to perform the transfer.

      

On the Day of Migration:

1. User Accounts

    

   • Migrate all user accounts from the existing site to the new server.

      

   • Cross-reference the user list to ensure all data has transferred correctly (e.g., usernames, emails, account status).

      

2. Wallet Balances

    

   • If the site uses a wallet or credit system, ensure all balances are accurately transferred to the new environment. Test a few user accounts to confirm balances match.

      

3. Payment Gateway Settings

    

   • Double-check that all payment integrations (e.g., Stripe, PayPal) are correctly set up on the new server.

      

   • Run test transactions if possible to ensure everything is functioning properly.

      

4. Holding Page (Optional)

    

   • If needed, a temporary holding page can be deployed on the new Gridpane server during the switch. This keeps users informed and avoids confusion during the final steps of migration.

      

5. DNS Switch via Cloudflare

    

   • Once everything is confirmed to be working, update the A record in Cloudflare to point to the new server's IP.

      

   • Because Cloudflare is already managing the DNS, this change takes effect immediately with no DNS propagation delays.