To copy a cPanel account from another server using the account password, you'll use the Transfer or Restore a cPanel Account interface in WHM. This feature allows you to migrate hosting accounts between servers without needing root access to the source server. Note that the old "Copy an Account from Another Server with Account Password" interface was removed in cPanel version 90.
Important Update About This Feature
The legacy interface for copying accounts with an account password was removed in cPanel version 90. Instead, you should use WHM's Transfer or Restore a cPanel Account interface, which you can find by navigating to WHM, then Home, then Transfers, then Transfer or Restore a cPanel Account.
This modern interface provides better security, improved reliability, and more control over the migration process. If you're running an older version of cPanel at OBHost, consider upgrading to access these enhanced features.
Understanding Account Transfers
When you transfer a cPanel account from a remote server, the system copies all account data including files, databases, email accounts, and configuration settings. This process requires authentication with the account's password rather than root access to the source server.
If you're migrating from a non-cPanel control panel, you'll need to follow manual migration procedures since the automated transfer tools only work between cPanel servers.
Security Considerations for Account Transfers
The Restricted Restore feature provides additional security when transferring accounts from unfamiliar sources. This feature performs extra security checks on backup files to reduce risks during migration.
When to Use Restricted Restore
The Restricted Restore feature is experimental but useful in specific situations. If you don't trust the source server with root access to your destination server, enable this feature for added protection. The system will skip any compromised components (like suspicious MySQL grant tables or problematic symbolic links) and log warnings instead of failing the entire transfer.
Restricted Restore Limitations
Keep these limitations in mind when using Restricted Restore:
- This feature is experimental and may change in future releases
- Restored accounts will only use noshell or jailshell options
- If the account uses another shell type, the system automatically changes it to noshell
- For PostgreSQL databases, the target server must run PostgreSQL version 8.4 or newer
Configuring Transfer Settings
Before initiating an account transfer, you'll need to specify details about the source server. Enter either the IP address or fully-qualified domain name (FQDN) of the remote server where the account currently resides.
For example, if the account is hosted at host.example.com, you would enter that FQDN in the server address field. Make sure you have the account password ready, as you'll need it to authenticate the transfer.
Reseller Privilege Options
During the transfer process, you can choose whether to copy reseller privileges from the source account. If the account being transferred has reseller permissions on the source server, enabling this option will maintain those privileges on the destination server.
Troubleshooting Session Timeouts
If you experience session timeouts during large account transfers, you can adjust the timeout settings in WHM. Navigate to Server Configuration, then Tweak Settings, and find the System section. Look for the setting called "Number of seconds an SSH connection related to an account transfer may be inactive before timing out" and increase this value.
Larger accounts with many files or databases may require longer timeout periods to complete successfully. Start with incremental increases and monitor the transfer progress.
FAQ: Transferring cPanel Accounts Between Servers
Can I transfer multiple accounts at once using this method?
The account password method is designed for single account transfers. If you need to migrate multiple accounts, consider using root-level transfer tools or performing individual transfers sequentially. Each account requires its own password for authentication.
What happens if the transfer fails partway through?
If a transfer fails, the system will typically roll back changes to prevent partial migrations. Check the transfer logs for specific error messages. Common causes include network connectivity issues, insufficient disk space on the destination server, or authentication problems with the account password.
Do I need to change DNS settings after transferring an account?
Yes, after successfully transferring an account to your OBHost server, you'll need to update the domain's DNS records to point to the new server's IP address. This ensures visitors reach the site on its new location. DNS propagation typically takes 24-48 hours to complete worldwide.
Will email be interrupted during the account transfer?
Email delivery may be affected during and after the transfer. To minimize disruption, lower the domain's DNS TTL values before starting the migration, and consider keeping the old server active until DNS has fully propagated to the new server.
If you need assistance with transferring cPanel accounts or have questions about the migration process, our support team is available 24/7. Visit https://www.obhost.net/contact or email support@obhost.org for help.
