Version and Compatibility Analysis
Map the edition (CE/EE), storage, integration, and mandatory upgrade path (upgrade path) between the current and target platforms.
MIGRATION SERVICES
GitLab Migration and Relocation Services
GitLab migration is the service of transferring code repositories (repository), groups, user access, issue tracking, CI/CD pipeline settings, runner definitions, artifact files, and Container Registry data to a new environment in a version-compliant manner.
What is GitLab Migration and Relocation Services?
For GitLab infrastructure migrations, a single migration method is not suitable for all scenarios. The source and target server versions, installation types (Omnibus, Helm/Cloud Native), and the scope of data to be migrated (all servers or specific projects) determine the method to be followed. Full restore, project-based export/import, or phased migration methods produce different technical outcomes.
Without process management, common risks include missing mandatory upgrade steps, forgetting secret/encryption keys, incomplete transfer of Git LFS large files, and copying runner permissions. Comprehensive inventory extraction and test restore steps in isolation environments eliminate data loss risks.
Service scope
Test Restore and Validation
Verify the integrity of backups and application behavior in a isolated test environment before the live migration.
Controlled Data Transfer
Freeze write operations in the source system to ensure data consistency; transfer main data, secret files, LFS, and Registry components.
Acceptance and Functional Testing
Test end-to-end code cloning/pushing, CI/CD pipelines, user permissions, LFS large files, and Container Registry access.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Who is it for?
- Corporations changing their GitLab server infrastructure, relocating data centers, or moving to the cloud.
- Teams transitioning between GitLab SaaS (GitLab.com) and self-managed (on-premises) environments.
- Organizations looking to upgrade to newer versions without data loss from an outdated and unsupported GitLab version.
- Organizations wishing to consolidate scattered projects and groups into a centralized GitLab environment.
DELIVERABLES
Deliverables
- Migration Inventory and Version Upgrade Path
- Application Disruption and Rollback (Recovery) Plan
- Fully Migrated and Configured GitLab Server Components
- Data and Function Validation Checklist
How we work
01
Assess the current environment, target and dependencies
02
Document scope, risks, acceptance and rollback
03
Implement, validate and document
Frequently asked questions
Can an old GitLab version be directly upgraded to the latest version?
Direct upgrades are not possible. GitLab requires specific upgrade steps (upgrade stops) to ensure smooth database and schema transformations; a phased migration in the correct order is mandatory.
Are CI/CD secret variables (secret variables) protected during the migration process?
In full backup/restore scenarios, secret files containing encryption keys (gitlab-secrets.json) are correctly transferred, thus protecting the variables. Project-based export/import operations may have different scopes and should be pre-verified.
Is the source code history (Git commit history) deleted during the migration?
When appropriate technical methods and validation processes are used, the Git commit history is fully preserved. Additionally, LFS files, wiki pages, snippets, and submodule dependencies are included in the inventory for a seamless transfer.
Let’s assess your requirements
We review your current environment, target and technical requirements in a 20–30 minute call. Scope, assumptions, deliverables and pricing are documented before work begins.
Request an assessment →