Version 2.0 of the Magento ecommerce platform was launched in November of 2015 and is said to be a game changer for ecommerce business. This obviously means that you should migrate to the latest version, if you haven’t already. However, for those looking to migrate to Magento 2.0, here’s some useful tips and information that will help smoothen the transition.
Migration
For those looking to migrate to Magento 2.0, there is some good news as well as some bad news. The good news is that this new version is the latest iteration of an already winning formula. The bad news, however, is that version 2.0’s design architecture is so different from Magento 1 that it is nearly impossible to migrate from the source code of previous versions. Worse news is that the company isn’t planning to create any updates for the same. What it means is that anyone looking to install Magento 2.0 will have to perform a clean install, even if they have Magento 1.
Components
The migration from previous versions to Magento 2.0 involves 3 major components: Themes & customizations, data, and extensions.
Themes and Customizations: Magento 2 new architecture employs the use of numerous new technologies that give ecommerce merchants the ability to totally reinvent their users’ shopping experience. This includes customization of themes, and other elements to make a truly personalised ecommerce platform. Magento 2 comes with comprehensive documentation to help you change the themes, and layouts.
Data: Data is the most important element of any software, and it is imperative that user data remains safe, secure, and functional. The Magento 2.0 Data Migration Tool was developed with the sole purpose of helping users to seamlessly port all their key elements like, customer and order information, SKU, sales & promotions, and much more.
Extensions: The Magento development team is already working on a host of useful extensions and code that can be used to simplify the process of creating a personalized ecommerce platform. Currently in the development stage, these extensions will be available to users via Magento Connect. The developers have also drafted an extensive Extension Developer Guide for Magento 2.
Other Useful Tips:
- Pre-migration – Make sure to create at least one duplicate of your Magento 1 database, and connect it to Magento 2.0. This will avoid catastrophe in case you connect to the Magento 1 live database by mistake, wherein you’ll lose your entire Magento 1.0 database,
- Avoid the use of any kind of code changes, especially during the migration process. You might be tempted to fix an error as and when you get them, but doing it during the migration will only double your work.
- Post-migration – Once you have transferred all the data from your Magento 1.0 database to your Magento 2.0 website, try taking you site live. You can do this by putting your Magento 1.0 website into maintenance mode, exiting the migration tool, and directing your DNS balancers toward your new hardware.