Essential preparation for a smooth PrestaShop data migration

Before initiating the data migration process, it's crucial to ensure that both the source and target websites are properly configured. Below are the steps to configure the necessary settings:

1. Supported PrestaShop versions

The MigrationPro Ultimate module ensures smooth data migration between various PrestaShop versions. It's important to verify that both your source and target sites meet the version requirements.

• Source Site: The source site must be running on PrestaShop version 1.3.x or higher.
• Target Site: The target site must be on PrestaShop version 1.5.x or higher. We recommend using the latest PrestaShop 8.

Ensuring that your source and target sites meet these version requirements is essential for a successful migration.

2. Reconfigure php.ini for both Source site & Target site

To ensure a smooth migration process, it’s important to adjust certain parameters in the php.ini file. These settings help manage large data transfers, which is crucial during migration.

• Locate the php.ini file:
  • If using XAMPP on localhost: The php.ini file is typically located at C:\\xampp\\php\\php.ini.
  • If using cPanel: Navigate to Software > Select PHP Version > Switch to PHP Options to change the values.
• Adjust the following parameters to higher values:
  • post_max_size=128M
  • upload_max_filesize=32M
  • max_file_uploads=1024
• Save your changes: After making these adjustments, save the changes to the php.ini file.

Note: If you can't find the php.ini file on your server, please ask your hosting provider for assistance, as these settings are crucial for large data migrations.

Why reconfigure these settings?

• post_max_size and upload_max_filesize: These parameters control the maximum size of POST data and file uploads. Setting them higher ensures that large amounts of data can be uploaded without issues.
• max_file_uploads: This parameter limits the number of files that can be uploaded simultaneously. Increasing it ensures that multiple files can be handled at once during migration.

Do you always need these settings?

Normally, you don’t need to adjust these settings right away. You can start the migration process and only change the settings if you encounter errors or if the migration stops unexpectedly. However, pre-adjusting these settings can be beneficial:

• If you have a large amount of data to migrate: For instance, if your site has over 10,000 products, over 1,000 orders, or over 1,000 customer records, it’s better to adjust these settings beforehand.
• To improve migration speed: Increasing these parameters can help the migration process run faster, reducing waiting times.

Adjusting these settings in advance ensures a smoother and quicker migration process, helping you avoid potential interruptions and errors.

4. Backup data

Before starting the migration process, it's crucial to create a comprehensive backup. This backup should include both the source code and the database of your source site.

• Backup Source Code: Ensure you have a complete copy of your website's files.
• Backup Database: Export your database to have a full backup of all your data.

This step serves as a safety net in case of any unexpected issues or errors during the migration process. For detailed instructions on cloning your website as a backup, please refer to our detailed guide here.

5. Install Modules for Connection and Migration

To ensure a smooth migration process, you need to install specific modules on both the source and target sites. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Install the PrestaShop Connector module on the source site. ****This module establishes a connection between the source and target sites, facilitating data transfer.

Step 2: Install the MigrationPro Ultimate module on the target site. This is the main module that handles the migration process.

Where to find the PrestaShop Connector module

• The PrestaShop Connector module is free and included in the installation package ets_migrate.zip. You can find it in the /plugin folder inside this package.
• Alternatively, you can download this module from the “Download” menu on the “MigrationPro Ultimate” configuration page.

6. Dealing with Cloudflare blocking

If the source site is using Cloudflare and it blocks the connection, you should:

• Add the target site server's IP to the source site's Cloudflare whitelist. This will allow the target site to connect without being blocked by Cloudflare's security measures.
• Alternatively, temporarily turn off the firewall or disable the block on the server. This can help establish the necessary connection for migration. Need assistance?

Note: If you are unsure how to add an IP to the whitelist or how to turn off the firewall, please contact your hosting provider. They can assist you with these tasks to ensure the migration process goes smoothly.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that both the source and target websites are properly configured for the migration process. If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to reach out for support.