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Moving an OpenVZ VPS to KVM requires a new server and a data migration; there is no in-place conversion. The dashboard reinstall route is simpler but completely wipes the existing VPS, so do not start it until you have verified a complete backup. For a complex server, build a new KVM VPS, restore and test the site there, then point DNS to its new IP.
Choose a migration route
| Route | Best suited to | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard reinstall | A setup you can recreate and whose data and configuration are fully backed up. | The existing server is completely wiped during the process. |
| Manual migration | A complex server with custom applications or configuration that needs careful reconstruction and testing. | You provision and configure a new KVM VPS, transfer the data, and cut over DNS yourself. |
The reinstall flow is described as the streamlined choice for most users; the manual route is intended for complex setups. Whichever you choose, confirm the backup and downtime plan first.
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Check your VPS and deadline
Legacy VPS plans purchased before April 18, 2023 may use OpenVZ, while newer plans may be labelled KVM in the dashboard. Check your plan details rather than assuming which virtualization type your server uses.
The migration guide gives conflicting OpenVZ shutdown dates: December 14, 2026 in its opening notice and November 30, 2026 in its section about what happens if you do nothing. The guide therefore does not establish one definitive deadline. Check the date shown in your account or contact your provider for the date that applies to your VPS, and plan accordingly. Help Center migration guide
#1 Best Overall
Tecmojo 12U Open Frame Network Rack for IT & AV Gear, AV Rack Floor Standing or Wall Mounted,with 2 PCS 1U Rack Shelves & Mounting Hardware,Network Rack for 19" Networking,Audio and Video Device
- 【Powerful Load-bearing】12U Network Rack Open Frame is constructed from durable cold rolled steel; Rack shelf supports enhance stability, wall-mounted capacity of 130lbs, the ground-mounted up to 260lbs
- 【Considerate Designs】Open-frame layout, including a top panel adding space, anti-slip shelf stops fixing devices and compatible racks for stack and expansion to meet requirements of home server rack
- 【Complete Accessories】A 12U open frame server rack, two ventilated shelves, four shelf stops, four velcro straps and a set of equipment mounting screws
- 【Versatile Application】Ideal for space-efficient multi-device setups in warehouses, retail, classrooms, offices and more; Excellent choices as AV Rack/IT Rack
- 【Effortless Setup】 Network Rack includes hardware, a comprehensive manual, mounting hole drilling template and an online assembly video to simplify setup
Back up before you begin
There is no automatic conversion between the two virtualization architectures. The Help Center says, “There is no in-place upgrade or automatic conversion tool.” You will need to move your data and rebuild or restore the environment on KVM. Help Center: OpenVZ and KVM
- Copy the files and configuration you need, including site files, application settings, scheduled tasks, and other server-specific setup.
- Make fresh database dumps for each database and verify that the dump files are readable and complete.
- Keep a separate copy of the backups somewhere you can access if the old server is erased. Do not treat a backup stored only on the VPS being reinstalled as safe.
- Record the current DNS records and note services or integrations that depend on the old IP address.
Do not begin the dashboard reinstall unless you have verified the backups: the provider says this route completely wipes the existing server.
Rank #2
Sale
StarTech 42U 4-Post Open Frame Rack, 19in, 22-40in, 1323lb/600kg
- ADJUSTABLE DEPTH: 4-Post 42U open frame server rack with 4 vertical rails and adjustable mounting depth 22" to 40" (56,0cm to 101,7cm); Compatible with various servers / switches / data / AV and other IT equipment; EIA/ECA-310-E Compliant
- EASY ASSEMBLY: Mobile network rack with easy-to-follow assembly instructions and online video; Compact flat-pack shipping to avoid damage and facilitate installation; Total product height of 80.3in (204 cm) with casters, 78in (198cm) without casters
- COLD ROLLED STEEL: Durable 4 Post 19in open frame rack designed for ventilation with 42U mounting height and 1320lb (600kg) weight capacity (stationary); 3 install options included: casters, levelling feet, or base-plate to secure rack to the floor
- HARDWARE INCLUDED: Rolling computer/data rack includes cage nuts and screws to mount equipment, easy to read Units (U) and depth adjustment markings, cable management hooks for organization, and required assembly tools
- THE IT PRO'S CHOICE: Designed and built for IT Professionals, this 42U rack is backed for 2-years, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance
Use the dashboard reinstall route
- Sign in to your VPS provider account and open the VPS management area.
- Choose the migration or reinstall flow offered for the OpenVZ VPS, then select a KVM plan and data-center location. Confirm the plan and migration details shown in your account before proceeding.
- Review the displayed credit for unused OpenVZ subscription time, if applicable, and check the terms shown for your account.
- Start the process only after confirming your backups are complete and stored off the old server. The reinstall erases the existing VPS.
- After the KVM VPS is ready, install or configure your applications, restore your data, test the services, and update DNS only after the new server works.
Manually migrate to a new KVM VPS
- Schedule the work. Choose a low-traffic period and allow for DNS propagation after the eventual cutover; the migration guide advises allowing up to 24 hours.
- Provision the new VPS. Select a KVM plan and location appropriate for your audience. The new VPS will have a different IP address.
- Install the operating system and software. Recreate the services your applications need; examples in the guide include Apache, PHP, MariaDB, Redis, and Node.js.
- Transfer the backups. OpenVZ and KVM VPSs in the same location cannot communicate for direct SCP, rsync, or WHM transfers. Download the backups and upload them to the new server, or choose another location if suitable.
- Prepare for the final copy. Stop the relevant services before the final transfer so files and databases are not changing while you copy them. Make a final database dump if the application has changed since your earlier backup.
- Restore and configure. Put files in their correct locations, restore databases, and adjust settings that depend on the server, such as hostnames, IP addresses, and application configuration.
- Test before cutover. Confirm that the applications, database connections, background jobs, and other required services work on the KVM VPS before changing the public DNS record.
- Update DNS. Change the domain’s A record to the new VPS IP after testing. Check any other systems that still refer to the old IP, and allow for DNS propagation.
What to check after migration
- Open the site or application and test its essential workflows, not just its home page.
- Confirm database-backed pages, scheduled jobs, and any required background services are working.
- Check that DNS resolves to the new VPS IP and review services that may use a fixed IP address.
- Verify licensing separately: licenses purchased through your provider do not transfer to the new VPS.
- Keep the old VPS and its verified backups available until you have confirmed the new environment is functioning and no needed data was missed, unless the dashboard reinstall has already erased it.
When to get migration help
Support staff may be unable to carry out the migration on a customer’s behalf; check with your provider, and consider hiring a developer if configuration issues arise. For a server with custom services, complex databases, or dependencies you cannot confidently reproduce, a qualified Linux administrator or VPS migration specialist can help plan the restore and test the cutover.
Quick Recap
Best Value
VEVOR 9U Open Frame Server Rack, 23''-40'' Adjustable Depth, Free Standing or Wall Mount Network Server Rack, 4 Post AV Rack with Casters, Holds All Your Networking IT Equipment AV Gear Router Modem
- Adjustable Depth: Depth adjustable from 23" to 40", this open frame server rack accommodates servers and network equipment while providing ample space for A/V gears and cable management. Enjoy easy access to ports and devices from multiple angles.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs on the floor (200 lbs when adjusted to maximum depth) and 200 lbs when wall-mounted (depth cannot be adjusted in wall-mounted mode). Made from carbon steel for superior welding performance and durability, this open frame rack is designed to save space while accommodating multiple devices.
- User-Friendly Design: Designed with your convenience in mind, this open frame server rack features an top shelf for extra storage and improved space utilization. The rolling casters let you move it effortlessly wherever you need it, making setup and movement a breeze.
- Widely Applicable: Maximize your space with this adaptable open frame server rack, designed to make the most of every inch. Ideal for retail spots, classrooms, offices, and any area where space is at a premium, it delivers practical solutions for your storage needs.
- Everything You Need: Our open-frame rack comes with fully equipped accessory kit for easy setup and secure installation: 2 x Trays, 4 x Casters, 1 x set of Screws, 16 x M6*12 Cage Nuts, 1 x Grounding Wire, 1 x Internal & External Hex Wrenches, and 1 x User Manual.
Rank #4
AxcessAbles 12U Network Rack with Wheels - 500lb Capacity, 18" Depth | 19-Inch Open Frame AV Rack Case with 3” Caster Wheels | Screws, Spacer, Tool Included
- Universal 19” Rack Mount Compatibility – Perfect for pro audio, video, IT, and network gear. Compatible with mixers, routers, patch panels, servers, power amps, and more.
- Heavy-Duty Load Capacity – Built to support up to 550 lbs. Ideal for studio gear, DJ setups, server equipment, and AV components that demand serious stability.
- Robust Steel Frame & Design – Made with 1.5mm thick steel and weighs 36 lbs for maximum durability, reduced vibration, and long-term reliability in any setting.
- Mobile & Secure – Preinstalled with 3” industrial-grade caster wheels (lockable), making it easy to move and position your rack exactly where you need it.
- All-In-One Setup Kit Included – Comes with 34 rack screws (5mm & 6mm), a 1U blank spacer, and an assembly tool—ready for fast installation out of the box.
Rank #3
VEVOR 12U Open Frame Server Rack, 23-40 in Adjustable Depth, Free Standing or Wall Mount Network Server Rack, 4 Post AV Rack with Casters, Holds All Your Networking IT Equipment AV Gear Router Modem
- Adjustable Depth: 23-40'' adjustable depth is used for servers and network equipment, ensuring enough space for AV equipment, components, and cabling, while allowing you to access ports and equipment from multiple sides.
- Strong Load Capacity: Ground-Mounted Load Capacity: 500 lbs, Wall-Mounted Load Capacity: 150 lbs. The av rack is made of carbon steel for better weldability performance and can help save space while meeting your need to place multiple devices.
- User-friendly Design: Ergonomic design makes the open frame av rack easier to use. The additional top panel is able to place other items with more available space. Roller design moves anywhere and anytime, is convenient, and is more energy-saving.
- Complete Accessories: We provide the accessories you need, including 2 x Pallets, 145 x M5*10 Cross Head Screws, 4 x Casters, 4 x M10*50 Expansion Screws,10 x M6*12 Cage Nuts, 1 x Grounding Wire, 1 x User Manual.
- Wide Application: The server rack wall mount maximizes the use of available space, suitable for retail venues, classrooms, offices, and other places where space is limited.
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