If you want to migrate SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online, you have landed at the right place. In this article, we will discuss the procedure for migrating SharePoint 2013 online. However, migrating from SharePoint 2013 to online could occur for various reasons, and the process is beneficial itself as it increases productivity, collaboration, and security within the organization. So, now, let’s look at some of the reasons for migrating.

Common reasons for migrating from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online

• Easy access: Yes, as SharePoint Online is a cloud-based service, we can access our data from any device and anywhere.
• Maintenance: In SharePoint 2013, we have to handle all the hardware updates, software updates, security measures, and backups. However, Microsoft handles all that in SharePoint Online.
• More security: SharePoint Online comes with more advanced security features that are very beneficial in keeping our sensitive data safe.
• Cost-effective: SharePoint online does not require any additional hardware investment, which reduces the overall cost.

Procedure to migrate SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online

There are multiple ways of doing this. In this article, we will discuss the two best ways: Using SPMT and using third-party tool.

Using SharePoint Migration Tool (SPMT)

Microsoft offers a migration tool (SPMT) which requires the following steps to follow:

1. Install the SPMT & open it on your computer.
2. Now hit the Start a new migration
3. And choose the SharePoint server as your source and go on to Site Migration.
4. Then, enter the connection details for your SharePoint server.
5. Next up, sign in with your email and password for the server.
6. Then, pick if you’re moving the main site or its sub-sites.
7. Afterward, put your SharePoint online URL in the mailbox link section.
8. And don’t forget to name your migration batch.
9. Finally, review everything & hit the Migrate Now

The downside of using SPMT:

It is important to discuss what SPMT can’t do:

• Sometimes, SPMT struggles with large data sizes.
• SPMT can take a long time to process; that’s not very handy for busy organizations.
• Unfortunately, it doesn’t provide any easy filters or personalization options.
• Also, be careful; there’s a risk of losing data if mistakes happen, so always take a backup.
• Plus, it requires some good tech knowledge.

Which is the best way to migrate SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online?

I believe the best way to migrate SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint online is by utilizing any reliable third-party tool. They are very easy to use and can easily migrate the data with more advanced features. However, there are a lot of third-party tools available; if I had to pick one, then the Shoviv SharePoint Migrator tool would be my choice. This powerful software is packed with features that make migration easier and more effective. Additionally, it’s very user-friendly, so anyone can use it without needing deep tech knowledge.

Features of Shoviv’s SharePoint migrator tool

• The software has a scheduling feature that lets you plan when your migration happens.
• Users can filter by date & folder when migrating.
• This tool can handle multiple sites at once with ease.
• It works with all versions of SharePoint (both on-premises and online) as well as Windows systems.
• Also, you get real-time monitoring during migration, ensuring every data goes smoothly.
• Additionally, a free version is also available for moving up to 20KB of data.

How to use Shoviv SharePoint Migrator?

1. First thing: Install & open Shoviv’s SharePoint Migrator tool and go to the Create Connection tab.
2. Then, provide a name for your project; then confirm your SharePoint login & sign-in credentials.
3. Now click on the Create Job tab on the ribbon >> select the Create Migration job.
4. Then, enter a Job name & choose that connection you just made as your source, and click Next.
5. Use the filter and schedule options as needed; then hit Next.
6. Finally, click next to initialize the migration process.

Wrap Up

Using Shoviv’s Migrator, users can make migrating from SharePoint 2013 to Online super easy compared to SPMT. However, SPTM can also migrate SharePoint 203 to Online, but it has some limitations, and it lacks in providing extra features. On the contrary, the Shoviv SharePoint Migrator tool comes with many handy features making everything smoother and more efficient. Lastly, if you’re thinking about switching from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online, I’d highly recommend trying out Shoviv’s tool. Don’t forget to use the free version to see how it works.

Also read: How to manage PST files in Outlook?