Data center migration is far more than a simple server relocation — it’s a complex, multi-layered process where every detail matters, and a single mistake can lead to significant business disruptions. Our experience has proven that successful migration is the result of meticulous planning, risk management, and flawless coordination. In this article, we’ll share how ALESTA, a leading systems integrator, successfully executed a data center migration project for a major bank, ensuring operational continuity throughout.

Why Data Center Migration is Critically Important

When it comes to financial institutions, uptime and data security are paramount. This is especially true in today’s Ukraine, where heightened risks—power outages, cyberattacks, and the threat of infrastructure damage due to ongoing hostilities—are part of the daily reality. For banks and other financial institutions, even a minute of downtime can lead to substantial losses, making reliable infrastructure and uninterrupted access to data critical.

Migrating a data center is a serious decision with far-reaching consequences for the entire organization. The goal of this project was to relocate the bank’s IT infrastructure to a new data center in a secure European location, ensuring full data security and operational readiness within the shortest possible timeframe, while minimizing risks to the business.

We broke the migration process into six key phases. Each phase was carefully planned to avoid unforeseen issues and mitigate risks.

Step 1: Audit and Preparation – The Key to Safe Migration

Our journey began with an infrastructure audit. We conducted a thorough analysis of all components: servers, storage systems, and network devices. This gave us a complete picture of the bank’s existing resources and allowed us to identify any weak points that needed attention before the move.

• Equipment Inventory: Every server, switch, and storage system was documented—from serial numbers to technical conditions.
• Technical Audit: Our engineers verified the functionality of all systems, from power supply to CPU and RAM usage.
• Backup and Restoration Testing: We created backups of the configurations and tested their restoration to ensure we could quickly restore infrastructure in the event of any unforeseen incidents.

This phase laid the groundwork for a secure migration, as we knew exactly which equipment was ready to be moved and which systems required further checks.

After preparing the equipment and completing all necessary documentation, we ensured readiness for the actual migration. This included:

• Logistics Planning: We developed the transportation route.
• Backup Plan: We prepared a contingency plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Step 2: Equipment Dismantling – Control at Every Step

Once the preparatory work was completed, the next step was dismantling the equipment. This phase is critical because improper disconnection or preparation for transport could lead to equipment failure. Every step was documented to maintain control at all stages.

• Disconnection and Safety: Servers and storage systems were powered down and prepared for dismantling according to strict guidelines. Every action was logged for future tracking.
• Equipment Labeling: Each component received a unique identifier and was labeled to facilitate smooth reinstallation at the new site. This prevented confusion and ensured proper reconnection.

Additionally, we conducted photo and video documentation during and after the dismantling process. This allowed us to precisely replicate the infrastructure at the new location, ensuring accurate placement of servers, cables, and other components. These materials helped prevent any mistakes during the data center's reassembly.

Step 3-4: Packaging and Transportation – Crucial Steps for Safety

Packing and transportation are among the riskiest phases, as physical equipment is vulnerable to external factors. We approached these stages with meticulous attention to detail to minimize any potential threats.

• Packing: Each piece of equipment was packed into special containers with shock protection, ensuring safety during transport.
• Route Control: We carefully planned the transport route and conditions to ensure the equipment was delivered in perfect condition and on time.

Step 5: Installation and Communication at the New Site – Precision to the Millimeter

Once the equipment arrived at the new location, the installation and configuration process began. We followed the detailed plan created during the preparation phase.

• Installation and Connection: All servers, switches, and storage systems were installed according to the pre-designed layouts. All network and electrical connections were made in compliance with safety standards.
• Reliability Testing: After installation, each component was tested to ensure stable infrastructure performance post-migration.

Next, we conducted comprehensive testing of all systems to ensure they were operating correctly and that the bank could resume normal operations without delay.

• Power and Performance Testing: We checked the stability of every component—from servers to storage systems.
• Application Testing: We verified the functionality of all banking applications to ensure they operated correctly post-migration.

Step 6: Post-Migration Support – Continuity Guaranteed

Even after a successful migration, we continued to monitor the systems to quickly detect and resolve any issues.

• Performance Monitoring: Using specialized tools, we tracked server and network infrastructure loads.
• Ongoing Support: Our team remained on standby to address any post-migration concerns.

Conclusion: How ALESTA Ensures Security and Stability

The bank’s data center relocation project was executed thanks to the precise coordination of actions at every stage. Every aspect of the process was meticulously planned, documented, and controlled, which allowed us to avoid any interruptions in the operation of the critical infrastructure. Full documentation of each step—from the initial audit to the final launch—ensured transparency throughout, providing the client with confidence in the reliability and security of their IT environment.

Through our systematic approach, we not only preserved the integrity of the data but also ensured the seamless operation of banking systems, with no deviation from the planned schedule. Our experience-based approach allowed us to minimize all risks that could have negatively affected the client’s business, avoiding data loss or access issues to critical services.

This project reaffirmed that even the most complex and large-scale tasks can be executed smoothly and without unforeseen problems if handled with coordination, professionalism, and a deep understanding of infrastructure specifics. The bank’s data center migration proved that with ALESTA, you can be confident in the stability, security, and continuity of your business, even in high-risk conditions.