How to import from one Xenforo site to another Xenforo site on the same server.
Here are the steps to import data from one Xenforo site to another on the same server:
1.
Backup Both Sites: This is crucial. If anything goes wrong during the process, you can quickly restore to the existing state. Back up both the site’s files and databases.
2.
Install Fresh Xenforo on New Site: Install XenForo on the new site if not yet installed. If it is, you can skip this step.
3.
Prepare for Import: Log into your new Xenforo admin panel and go to Tools -> Import Data. You're going to see a page where it asks "Which system is the source data currently in?" select XenForo 2.0+.
4.
Enter Details: In the next step, you will need to input the details of the old database (including the database name, username, password, and server). Ensure that you enter the right details; otherwise, the process would not proceed.
5.
Customize Import: Next, you have the choice to customize the import, such as retaining the IDs of the content (like threads, posts, forums, etc.) from the source. Select your preferences.
6.
Start Import: After setting up, click the 'Start Import' button. Xenforo will then begin importing the data. This process may take some time based on the size of the data.
7.
Verify Import: Once the importing process is complete, check if all the data has been accurately imported and functions correctly.
8.
Rebuild Caches: Once everything is verified, go to Tools -> Rebuild Caches in the admin control panel and rebuild all the caches. This step ensures that all imported data displays correctly.
9.
User Authentication: There's one more thing you should bear in mind. After importing, the users from the source forum may need to reset their passwords, as importing mechanisms might not necessarily import the authentication, owing to different encryption schemes. Sending out an informational email to users about this might be a good idea.
Remember that this process involves sensitive database information, so ensure you handle it carefully and keep it secure. The processes described above should ideally be performed by an experienced system administrator or database manager.
