Before you want to switch, you must follow these steps:

1. Make a full backup of the Magento 1 store, which contains all folders, files, and databases.
2. Make a replica of the Magento 1 store. Do not use the live store.
3. Make a thorough analysis of the store and remove the unnecessary items.
4. Make sure your current extensions, themes, and custom codes are compatible with Magento 2.
5. Migrate your data files from your cloned database.
6. Discard all useless and outdated data from your database, including logs and compared products.
7. To ensure a trouble-free transfer process, install Magento 2 on the same server where Magento 1 is stored.

According to the official documentation, the transfer process has four steps. We will now discuss these steps.

Migration of theme

Magento 2 has introduced new technologies and methodologies to provide a better shopping experience for both users and sellers. Developers can use new improved ways to create striking and beautiful Magento 2 themes. They can also modify and use existing themes, provided they are compatible with Magento 2 standards. It is important to keep in mind that it is not possible to migrate Magento 1 themes to Magento 2.

There is a good chance that you will have to develop a new theme for Magento 2. If you don’t feel like it, it is of course also possible to purchase a theme for Magento 2 and install it from a reputable source or via the Magento Marketplace.

Expansion migration

Like Magento 1, extensions in Magento 2 are important elements that offer new functions. This can extend the functionality of the Magento store and significantly improve the user experience. The next step in the switch is the installation of your desired extensions in Magento 2 that can be found on the Magento Marketplace.

Please note that extensions designed for Magento 1 are not compatible with Magento 2. We recommend that you install only the most relevant extensions based on your needs that are available and essential to Magento 2. The Magento developers, development agencies and the community are working hard to make it easier to configure extensions from Magento 1 to Magento 2.

Customization

The next step in the transfer process is customization. The good news is that in most cases the customization code used in the Magento 1 also works with the Magento 2 store. Magento also offers a code migration toolkit that can be useful during this process. It is important to note, that due to a variety of structural differences between Magento 1 and Magento 2, code migration may require some extra work to integrate the custom code with your Magento 2 store.

Data migration

The final step in the transfer process is the transfer of your Magento 1 data to the new Magento 2 store. Magento offers a tool for data migration, making the data migration process less annoying and time consuming. It is a tool that helps you migrate your important data, such as categories, products, orders, settings and store configurations to Magento 2.

The tool uses ‘map files’ to transfer your data to the Magento 2 store. It checks the consistency and stability between the two database structures (fields and tables) in Magento 1 and Magento 2, monitors the progress of data transfer, generates logs and performs tests to verify the accuracy of the data.

The tool works in three different ways:

• Migrate your configuration settings
• Migrate the core data of your database
• Transfer data updates in steps to your administrator dashboard and storefront. Transferring media files such as images and videos must be done manually. Despite all steps to be followed, the switch may not work as intended. You may even get some error messages. Do not panic! You can resolve any errors or problems by contacting experienced Magento developers who will gladly help you further.

When do you need to upgrade?

This largely depends on your existing website and whether it works well. If your website is doing well (it is running smoothly and your orders are coming in) and you have a version that is not outdated, you don’t have to hurry. You can already start using Magento 2 so that you get the hang of it.

Conclusion

Magento 2 has brought a completely new playing field for both solution partners and sellers. It is important to make the switch to the Magento 2 store if you want to stay informed about innovation and progress in the field of e-commerce. Although migrating to Magento 2 can be a time consuming and laborious process, you can make it easier by planning everything carefully and following a clear transition plan. If you are unfamiliar with this or if you have no experience, the best way is to engage a professional developer to make the switch easier. </ div>