~5 min read • Updated Feb 24, 2026
1. Overview
This tutorial explains how to migrate all cPanel accounts, SSL certificates, and the main server IP address from one server (source) to another (target). This process is typically used when replacing an old server with a new one.
Warnings:
- Your websites will likely experience downtime during the migration.
- Do not transfer accounts with calendars or contacts from a server running cPanel & WHM 120+ to a server running 118 or earlier, as you will need to manually migrate that data.
- This guide assumes your IP addresses are portable. If you use a third‑party hosting provider, confirm IP portability with them.
2. Install cPanel & WHM on the Target Server
Before transferring accounts, install cPanel & WHM on the new target server following the Installation Guide.
Important:
- The target server must use the same software versions as the source server (MySQL/MariaDB, PHP, Apache, extensions, etc.).
- If you cannot match versions, update the source server’s software before migrating.
- Perform the migration first, then update software on the target server.
- Copy your Apache configuration to the target server using the Customize Your Installation documentation.
Notes:
- A valid cPanel license is required (15‑day trial available).
- Your permanent license will transfer to the new server automatically.
3. Copy All Service Configurations
Important: Transfer service configurations before transferring accounts to avoid website issues.
If your OS does not support SNI, copy all SSL certificates from /etc/ssl/ before transferring accounts.
Use WHM’s Transfer Tool:
WHM » Transfers » Transfer Tool
Select the following service configurations:
- AutoSSL options
- Backups
- cPanel & WHM (whmconf)
- Database servers
- EasyApache
- Exim
- GreyList
- Hulk
- ModSecurity
- User interface themes
4. Copy All Accounts to the Target Server
Important: Transfer reseller accounts before cPanel accounts to preserve ownership.
Use WHM’s Transfer Tool to migrate accounts:
WHM » Transfers » Transfer Tool
The Transfer Tool includes the Live Transfer feature, which reduces downtime by proxying traffic during migration.
If you only have user credentials (no root access), use:
WHM » Transfers » Transfer or Restore a cPanel Account
5. Shut Down the Source Server
After copying all accounts, you may shut down the source server.
If you used Live Transfer, keep the source server online for two days to allow proxying to complete.
Warning: Licenses on unused servers continue billing until canceled. Refunds are not available.
6. Finish Your Transfer
6.1 Confirm Your cPanel License
Verify your license using the License Verification interface.
6.2 Change the Target Server’s Main IP Address
Important: Perform this step only if:
- You purchased your license directly from WebPros or a third‑party provider.
- You want the target server to use the same main IP as the source server.
Do not perform this step if you are switching hosting providers.
6.2.1 Change Main IP on RHEL‑Based Systems
- Edit
/etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0and update IPADDR and GATEWAY. - If the source server was in a DNS cluster, remove cluster entries in WHM.
- Edit
/etc/ipsand add the source server’s IP, netmask, and gateway. - Restart networking:
systemctl restart network - Run:
/scripts/mainipcheck - Run:
/scripts/fixetchosts
6.2.2 Change Main IP on Ubuntu
- Edit the Netplan YAML file in
/etc/netplan/. - Update the IP address and gateway.
- If the source server was in a DNS cluster, remove cluster entries in WHM.
- Edit
/etc/ipsand add the source server’s IP. - Restart networking:
systemctl restart systemd-networkd - Run:
/scripts/mainipcheck - Run:
/scripts/fixetchosts
7. Check IP Addresses of Transferred Accounts
Some accounts may retain the target server’s original IP. Update them using:
WHM » IP Functions » IP Migration Wizard
8. Configure DNS Zone Files
In WHM’s Basic WebHost Manager Setup:
WHM » Server Configuration » Basic WebHost Manager Setup
Enter the same shared IP and nameservers used on the source server.
9. Add the Target Server to the DNS Cluster
If applicable:
- Go to
WHM » Clusters » DNS Cluster. - Enable DNS Clustering.
- Add the target server to the cluster.
10. Reinstall SSL Certificates
If your servers are not SNI‑capable or you use CA‑issued certificates, reinstall SSL certificates:
WHM » SSL/TLS » Install an SSL Certificate on a Domain
Paste the certificate or upload the .crt file, then click Submit.
Conclusion
By installing cPanel & WHM on the target server, transferring service configurations, migrating accounts, updating IP addresses, configuring DNS, and reinstalling SSL certificates, you can fully replace your old server with minimal downtime and maintain consistent service for all hosted accounts.
Written & researched by Dr. Shahin Siami