As a Linux System Administrator, I’ve recently been learning how to migrate client websites and email services from one server to another — with zero downtime.

Unlike theory-based training, working with real client data taught me how small things (like DNS delays or path mismatches) can make or break a successful migration. In this post, I’ll walk you through the exact steps I follow, what tools I use, and what I’ve learned during this hands-on process.

Step 1: Client Coordination

Every migration starts with communication. We first coordinate with the client, inform them about the planned migration, and ask them to update their nameservers after the process is complete.

Step 2: Create a cPanel Account on the New Server

Once the client is ready, I create a new hosting account on the destination server using cPanel. This sets up the environment where the migrated data will go — including website files, emails, DNS records, and more.

Step 3: Creating a Symlink (Symbolic Link)

Sometimes, the client’s data resides in alternate directories like /home3 instead of the default /home. To make sure our migration script works correctly, we create a symlink — a shortcut from /home3/clientfolder/ to /home.

cd /home
ln -s /home3/domain_name/

This makes /home3/domain_name/ accessible as if it’s inside /home, allowing the migration tools to function without path issues.

Step 4: Run the Migration Command

We use a predefined script to handle the data transfer. The script pulls both website and mail data from the source server to the new one.

./ilxmigrate --source=[source_server_name] --action=newdomain --domain=[domain.com]

This command performs the actual migration and creates the necessary setup on the destination server.

Step 5: Resync If Nameservers Aren’t Changed

Sometimes, clients delay updating their nameservers. Meanwhile, they continue receiving emails on the old server. To avoid data loss, we perform a resync to fetch any new or missed emails.

./ilxmigrate --source=[source_server_name] --action=resyncmails --domain=[domain.com]

Resync ensures nothing is left behind — especially email messages received after the initial migration.

🔍 What I Learned

DNS understanding is crucial — especially the delay in nameserver propagation.
Even small commands matter — a simple symlink can save hours of troubleshooting.
Migrations are not just technical — they involve communication, planning, and client trust.
Always verify data after migration — especially emails and site functionality.

🙌 Final Thoughts

This has been a rewarding experience. I didn’t write scripts, but I learned to follow a consistent process, run server-level commands, and most importantly, understand what’s happening behind the scenes.

If you’re a beginner sysadmin or aspiring DevOps engineer, I highly recommend getting your hands dirty with real-world tasks like these. It’s the best way to grow.

Let me know if you’ve handled migrations or similar tasks — I’d love to hear what tools or steps you use!

What I Learned from Performing Real-World Service Migrations (Without Downtime)