Upgrade Speed and Security with Magento 2 Code Migration

• What is Code Migration?

• Why Migrate Code?

• 7 Steps to Migrate Code

• 6 Preparation Steps for Magento 2 Code Migration

• 7 Common Challenges and Solutions for Magento 2 Code Migration

• FAQs

• Summary

What is Code Migration?

Code migration moves custom code and plugins.

The code is incompatible with changes in architecture. The migration involves updating custom modules and refactoring code. It also ensures compatibility with Magento 2’s new standards.

Magento provides official tools to help in migration, such as:

• Code Migration Toolkit automates the conversion of certain code elements.

• Data Migration Tool assists in transferring store data, products, and orders.

Manual adjustments are often necessary. Code migration helps businesses aspiring improved performance and security in their stores.

Why Migrate Code?

1. End-of-Life for Magento 1

• The version reached its official end in June 2020. Adobe no longer provides the patches or updates.

• It leaves stores vulnerable to threats like data breaches and loss of customer trust.

• Migrating to another version allows your store to support regular updates. It also helps with bug fixes.

2. Improved Performance

• Magento 2 enhances speed and efficiency. It uses technologies like Varnish caching and optimized indexing. It reduces page load times and enhances site performance.

• Faster websites provide a good user experience. It helps with higher conversion rates and better SEO rankings.

• Magento 1 was slow. It struggled to handle high traffic volumes.

3. Enhanced Security

• Magento 2 includes advanced security features. These include two-factor authentication and stronger data encryption.

• These features help protect sensitive customer data. These include payment details and personal information. It helps maintain trust and avoid costly data breaches.

4. Modern Architecture

• The other version introduces a more modern and flexible architecture. It comes with improved database handling and an updated codebase.

• It allows for faster development and smoother integration with tools. Developers can work better with a better-documented code structure. It leads to more reliable and maintainable systems in the long run.

5. Better Features and Integrations

• Magento 2 supports a wide array of advanced features.

• These include better inventory management and mobile responsiveness.

• Magento 2 better supports payment gateways and extensions. It helps your store function better and better align with eCommerce trends.

6. SEO and User Experience

• Magento 2 has improved SEO features. These include better URL structures and enhanced meta-tag capabilities.

• It has a more user-related admin interface. It makes managing products and customer data more intuitive.

• These upgrades can result in better visibility in search engines. It also leads to a smoother workflow for store administrators.

7 Steps to Migrate Code

1. Migrate Data Using the Data Migration Tool

• Magento provides an official data migration tool. It helps migrate data from Magento 1 to Magento 2.

• Configure the tool by setting up the Magento 2 databases. The tool will help map data from the old to the new system.

• Run the tool to migrate the essential data, including:

  1. Product Catalog

  2. Customer accounts

  3. Orders

  4. Configurations

• Ensure to test the integrity of the migrated data.

2. Migrate Custom Code and Extensions

• You should refract custom modules and scripts developed for Magento 1 for Magento 2. Magento 2 has a new structure. There is a depreciation of many functions and classes from Magento 1.

• Review and update custom modules. These should be compatible with Magento 2’s architecture and standards.

• Use the Magento code migration toolkit to help automate some custom code migration. The toolkit converts Magento 1 code to its Magento 2. It may still need manual adjustments.

• Magento 2 uses Composer to manage dependencies. Ensure updation of any third-party libraries or services used in Magento 1. These should be compatible with Magento 2.

3. Migrate Themes

• Magento 2 has a different theme structure and frontend framework. Change or rebuild themes for Magento 2 compatibility.

• Referencing your theme using Magento 2’s default theme as a base is often easier. You don’t need to migrate the entire theme. Ensure you migrate all custom elements to the new structure.

4. Test the Migrated Code

• After migration, test the site to ensure the migrated code works as expected. It includes checking:

  1. Product pages

  2. Checkout processes

  3. Custom functionality

• Test the performance of the site after migration. Ensure that the page load times and site performance meet your business needs.

• Ensure the migrated site is compatible with Magento 2’s features. These include new database structures and extensions. Check that all integrations work.

5. Final Testing and Quality

• Run a full test of the store. These include checking for any:

  1. Broken links

  2. Missing data

  3. Functionality issues

• Ensure that the migrated store is mobile-responsive and optimized for all devices. Review the user experience to ensure that everything is intuitive and works.

6. Go Live

• Before going live, take a final backup of the Magento 2 store. Switch the Magento 2 store to production after complete testing.

• Ensure that you have a rollback plan in place if something goes wrong. After going live, track the store for performance issues or customer complaints.

7. Post-Migration Support

• Update Magento 2. Ensure you update the store with the latest security patches and features.

• If necessary, train your team on the new Magento 2 interface. It differs from Magento 1, especially in the admin panel.

6 Preparation Steps for Magento 2 Code Migration

1. Audit Your Existing Magento 1 Setup

• Analyze your custom modules and third-party extensions. Identify any customizations made to the core Magento 1 system. Update or re-architect them for Magento 2.

• Review your extensions to check if they are compatible with other versions. Check for updates or replacements for any outdated or unsupported extensions.

• List and review integrations such as payment gateways and ERP systems. These may need adjustments or reconfigurations during the migration process.

2. Create a Backup of Your Magento 1 Store

• Ensure you have a full backup of your Magento 1 store, including the:

  1. Themes

  2. Media files

  3. Custom modules

  4. Customer or product database

• Save any custom scripts or modifications. It helps ensure you can transfer it if necessary.

3. Define Your Migration Strategy

• Choose whether you will perform the migration. Use automated tools like Magento’s data migration tool and code migration toolkit.

• Decide whether you will migrate in stages or one go. Establish clear goals and set a realistic timeline for the migration. Factor in time for data migration and post-migration optimization.

• Set up a staging environment to test the migration. Verify everything works before moving the site to production.

4. Check Magento Compatibility

• Ensure your hosting environment meets the requirements of the system for Magento 2. These include:

  1. PHP version

  2. MySQL version

  3. Web server configurations

• The other version requires better hosting resources than 1st version. Upgrade your hosting for better performance.

5. Prepare the Team

• Ensure your team knows the differences between both versions. If necessary, provide training or bring in experienced developers.

• Assign roles to team members for various parts of the migration, including:

  1. Data migration

  2. Custom code adjustments

  3. Testing

  4. Post-migration optimization

6. Set Up a Development and Staging Environment

• Install a fresh setup on a staging server. Ensure that this environment reflects the live environment.

• Perform initial performance tests on your staging environment. It helps ensure you can handle your expected traffic and workload.

7 Common Challenges and Solutions for Magento 2 Code Migration

1. Deprecated and Incompatible Code

Magento 2 introduces new coding standards and APIs. Rendering many of the custom code and methods from Magento 1 is incompatible.

Solution:

• Use the Magento code migration toolkit to automate code conversion.

• Manual refactoring of custom code may still be necessary.

• Ensure your team is familiar with coding practices. It helps update deprecated functions and adapt to the new architecture.

2. Custom Extensions and Modules

Earlier used extensions may not work with Magento 2. It leads to functionality loss or performance issues.

Solution:

• Check if existing extensions are available for Magento 2 or if you should refactor them.

• Some extensions need changes to work with Magento 2. You may need to rebuild custom modules to meet modular architecture.

• Testing compatibility early in the migration process can help avoid last-minute issues.

3. Theme Compatibility

Due to structural and frontend framework differences. Previous themes may not work with Magento 2.

Solution:

• It is often necessary to refactor or rebuild the theme. It should be compatible with Magento 2’s new frontend architecture using:

  1. UI components

  2. Less files

  3. HTML5

• Starting with a base theme and customizing it as needed can speed up the process. Ensure mobile working and cross-browser compatibility.

4. Data Migration Issues

Data migration can be difficult. This is particularly true when transferring product data and configurations without losing integrity.

Solution:

• Use the Data Migration Tool, which can handle most data transfers.

• You should clean the data before migration to bypass corrupt or incomplete data.

• Verify the integrity of migrated data with thorough post-migration testing. Plan for data migration in stages if the volume is high.

5. Integrations

Integrations with systems, such as payment gateways or ERP systems. It may not work with Magento 2.

Solution:

• Review all integrations early in the migration process.

• Check if updated versions of the integrations are available for Magento 2. You need custom development.

• Testing integrations after migration ensures smooth functionality. It prevents issues post-launch.

6. Testing and Quality Assurance

The complexity of the migration process means that testing is inadequate. It leads to issues after going live.

Solution:

• Establish a proper testing plan that covers all aspects of the site. These include functionality and user experience.

• Use tools like Selenium for automated testing. Run functional and performance tests.

• Conduct user acceptance testing to ensure all business requirements are met.

7. User Training and Adaptation

Magento 2 introduces a new admin interface. It may confuse users familiar with the earlier admin panel.

Solution:

• Train your team on the new admin interface and features.

• Ensure they are familiar with the backend workflow to manage products and orders.

• Create user guides or training sessions to help ease the transition.

FAQs

1. How do I install the Data Migration Tool for Magento migration?

To install the Data Migration Tool, use Composer. Then, match its version with your Magento version. Place it in the correct directory and configure database settings. The tool helps transfer data.

2. Can extensions be migrated to other versions?

The extensions do not work with other version. You need to check for Magento 2 versions or redevelop them. The Magento migration process may need manual adjustments.

3. Where should I place my custom code in the directory?

Magento 2 follows a modular structure. Custom code should go into the app/code directory. Ensure it aligns with the coding standards. Use the Magento Code Migration Toolkit for help.

4. What are the main challenges in code migration?

Challenges include incompatibility with earlier extensions and database restructuring. Magento 2 uses a different architecture, requiring code refactoring. Careful planning and testing resolve these issues.

5. Do earlier extensions work in Magento 2?

No, earlier extensions are not compatible with Magento 2. You need to find Magento 2 versions of the extensions or develop solutions. Some extension providers offer upgrade options.

6. How long does Magento 2 code migration take?

The migration timeline depends on store complexity and extensions. A basic store may take a few weeks. A heavily customized one can take months. Proper planning and testing speed up the process.

Summary

Magento 2 code migration involves updating modules and ensuring compatibility with modern architecture. The article explores the benefits of the migration, including:

• Magento 2 offers improved speed, caching, and advanced security features.

• Modules and extensions need updating to match Magento 2’s structure.

• Thorough testing ensures compatibility, functionality, and data integrity.

• Regular updates, training, and monitoring are essential for stability.

Ready to ensure a smooth Magento 2 migration. Pair it with managed Magento hosting for optimal performance and support.