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Migration Guide

Migrating FusionInvoice to a New Server or Hosting Environment

This guide outlines the general process for migrating a FusionInvoice installation between environments. The exact tools and commands may vary depending on your hosting setup.

Overview

A FusionInvoice migration consists of three main components:

  1. Backing up your existing installation

  2. Restoring files and database on the new environment

  3. Updating configuration and switching DNS

Step 1: Backup Application Files

Create a complete backup of your FusionInvoice application directory.

  • Include all files and subdirectories

  • Preserve directory structure

  • Most archive it using a zip file. 

Step 2: Export the Database

Export your FusionInvoice database to a standard SQL file.

  • Use any database management tool available in your environment (PHPMyAdmin, MYSQL Workbench, etc.)
  • Ensure the export includes all tables and data

Step 3: Prepare the New Environment

On the new server or hosting environment:

  • Create a new database

  • Create a database user with appropriate permissions

  • Ensure your environment meets FusionInvoice system requirements

Step 4: Import the Database

Import the previously exported SQL file into the new database.

  • Verify that all tables were created successfully

  • Confirm there are no import errors

Step 5: Restore Application Files

Upload or transfer your FusionInvoice files to the new environment.

  • Extract or place files into the appropriate web directory

  • Ensure the directory structure matches the original installation

Step 6: Update Configuration

Update your FusionInvoice configuration to reflect the new environment.

This includes the /config/database.php file. Be sure that the following are accurate for your new environment:

  • Database hostname and port

  • Database name

  • Database username and password

Ensure these values match the newly created database.

Step 7: Verify File Permissions

Apply read, write, and modify permissions to the following folders (including all the folders and files contained within):

  • storage
  • bootstrap/cache
  • media

The exact steps to set the appropriate permissions will depend on your web host and server configuration. FusionInvoice cannot advise on the exact steps or permissions to apply to make these folders writable. If you have questions about this step, please contact your web host or system administrator.

Step 8: Update DNS

Once testing is complete:

  • Update your DNS records to point to the new server

  • Allow time for DNS propagation

Step 9: Final Validation

After the migration is live:

  • Log in and verify data integrity

  • Test key workflows (invoicing, payments, uploads, etc.)

  • Monitor for any errors

Notes

  • Downtime can be minimized by performing a final database sync just before DNS changes

  • Always retain backups until the migration is fully verified

  • Exact commands and tools will vary depending on your hosting environment

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