Physical Rack Server Migration

#The problem

Physical servers, storage and network gear in a rack had to move to another data center (or a new cabinet). The servers were in production: no data could be lost, and downtime had to be as short as possible.

#What I did

• Took inventory: photographed and labeled every server, disk, network device and cable and where it connects.
• Planned the move: the shutdown order, the layout in the new rack, power and cooling needs, and IP/VLAN changes, all decided in advance.
• Took full backups of every system before the move and verified they could be restored.
• In a planned maintenance window announced to users and outside business hours, shut the servers down cleanly, removed them and moved them safely.
• In the new rack, did the layout, cabling and labeling neatly, and connected network, power and remote management.
• Powered systems up in order and tested each one: services, network access, domains and backups.
• Delivered up-to-date documentation of the new layout and connections.

#The result

The servers run in their new home with no data lost. Downtime stayed within the planned window, and the tidy rack and documentation make future maintenance easier.