Quick answer: Provision a Cloud2Y VPS with a similar or newer OS, copy your data from the Contabo server with rsync over SSH, import your database dumps, test the site on the new IP, then update DNS. Cloud2Y's free assisted migration can do the technical part for you — just open a ticket with your source access details.
Overview
Contabo servers are standard Linux VPS machines, so the provider-to-provider pattern applies directly: copy, test, switch. What changes with Cloud2Y is what surrounds the server — NVMe/SSD tiers including Power VPS for CPU-heavy workloads, locations in Kyiv, Lviv, Amsterdam and Singapore for lower latency to your users, and support that answers via tickets and [email protected].
Before you start
- Root SSH access to your Contabo server and a current backup of its data.
- A Cloud2Y server with enough disk and RAM for your workload (how to order).
- DNS access for every domain hosted on the source server.
Step-by-step guide
- Audit the source: list sites, databases, versions and cron jobs; check real disk usage with
df -h. - Prepare the target: matching stack or control panel on the Cloud2Y VPS.
- Copy files with rsync over SSH; repeat the run near cutover so only deltas transfer.
- Move databases via dumps (database guide).
- Test, then switch DNS — hosts-file testing first (how), then update A records and watch the new server's logs.
Common issues
- Large data over distance: if you are moving many hundreds of GB between regions, start the first rsync early — the second pass will be fast.
- Different network config: use the IP, gateway and netmask shown in your Cloud2Y Client Area, not settings copied from the source.
- Provider add-ons: re-create any panel-managed backups or firewall rules manually on the new server.
When to contact support
If you would rather hand the whole thing over, request a free migration. Include your Contabo access, the list of sites and your preferred maintenance window.
Frequently asked questions
What is different at Cloud2Y compared to Contabo?
You choose locations in Kyiv, Lviv, Amsterdam or Singapore, NVMe and SSD tiers including Power VPS for heavy workloads, and migration help is included via support tickets.
How long does moving a server from Contabo take?
For a typical single-server site the copy and testing fit in a day. Very large datasets need a longer first rsync, but the repeat delta pass keeps the actual cutover short.
Do I keep my IP address when moving providers?
No, your Cloud2Y server gets new IP addresses. Update DNS records, any hardcoded IPs in configs and external allowlists, and re-issue SSL certificates on the new server.
Related articles
- How to migrate from another VPS provider
- How to migrate from Hetzner to Cloud2Y
- How to avoid downtime during migration
- Migration FAQ
Ready to move? Order a VPS at Cloud2Y →
