Migrate Your Game Server: Guide for All Providers

Want to move your game server to game-serverhosting — no matter which provider? This guide explains the three available import methods and helps you choose the right one.

The Three Import Methods

Method 1: Direct SFTP Import (Fastest)

If your old provider supports SFTP (port 22), we can pull the data directly from there — no downloading required on your end.

Benefits: No download to your computer, ideal for large servers, no file size limits.

What you need:

  • SFTP host (IP address or domain)
  • SFTP port (usually 22 or provider-specific)
  • Username and password

Start SFTP import →

Method 2: File Upload (Universal)

You download your server folder as a ZIP or TAR.GZ and upload it to us.

Benefits: Works with any provider, even those without SFTP (e.g. FTP only).

Step by step:

  1. Connect via FTP/SFTP client (e.g. FileZilla) to your old server
  2. Download the complete game folder
  3. Compress everything to a ZIP (max. 10 GB)
  4. Upload the archive in the migration wizard

Upload file →

Method 3: URL Import

If your provider offers a download URL for backups (e.g. as .tar.gz), you can enter that URL directly.

Benefits: No local storage needed, ideal for large cloud backups.

Start URL import →

Finding SFTP Credentials: Provider Overview

Provider Where to find Port
G-Portal Dashboard → Settings → FTP/SFTP 2024
Nitrado Configuration → FTP Browser 21/22
ZAP-Hosting Settings → FTP Browser 21
Gameservers.com Control Panel → FTP Details 21
PingPerfect Control Panel → File Manager 22
Other Search your dashboard for "FTP", "SFTP", or "File Access" 21 or 22

Detailed Guides for Top Providers

Supported Games

We support all games that run on Pterodactyl, including:

  • Minecraft (Vanilla, Paper, Forge, Fabric, Spigot)
  • ARK: Survival Evolved / Ascended
  • Valheim
  • CS2
  • Rust
  • And 25+ more games

What Gets Imported?

  • World data: All chunks, player profiles, inventories
  • Plugins / Mods: Detected and listed (must be compatible)
  • Configuration: server.properties, game.ini etc. are automatically mapped
  • Database data: If present as files (SQLite, etc.)

Not imported: External databases (MySQL), Pterodactyl-specific settings, operating system configuration

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the import cost anything?

No. The import is completely free. You only pay for your new server plan.

How long does the import take?

  • Small servers (< 1 GB): 2–5 minutes
  • Medium servers (1–5 GB): 5–15 minutes
  • Large servers (5–10 GB): 15–30 minutes

What happens if the import fails?

You can retry the import at any time. Your uploaded file stays available for 24 hours.

Does my old server keep running during the import?

Yes. We recommend stopping your old server once you've started the import so the data is consistent. Your old server remains active until you cancel it.

My provider doesn't offer SFTP — what do I do?

Use the upload method: download via FTP client (FileZilla), create a ZIP, upload it.

Migrate Now

Start the free migration wizard →

Questions? Our support team is happy to help with your migration.