Zimbra Migration: What You Need to Know
Complete guide to migrating from Zimbra to Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace.
Zimbra Migration Architecture
Overview
Cloudiway provides a cloud-based SaaS platform for migrating Zimbra mailboxes to Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. The platform operates entirely in the cloud, requiring only network access to your Zimbra server.
Key Requirement
Your Zimbra server must be accessible from the internet for the SaaS platform to connect and migrate data. Firewall rules may need adjustment.
Migration Modes
Admin Account Migration
Uses an administrator account with delegated access to all user mailboxes. This is the recommended approach for on-premises Zimbra installations where you have full administrative control.
Best for: On-premises Zimbra with admin access
Self-Service Migration
Allows users to migrate their own mailboxes by providing their credentials. Ideal for hosted Zimbra services where administrator delegation isn't available or permitted.
Best for: Hosted Zimbra without admin delegation
Network Requirements
Configure your firewall to allow inbound connections from Cloudiway's platform on the following ports:
| Component | Port(s) | Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Email (IMAP) | 143 | Standard IMAP |
| Email (IMAPS) | 993 | IMAP over SSL |
| Admin Interface | 7071 | Zimbra Admin Access |
| Web Services | 443 | HTTPS/SSL |
Firewall Configuration
Data Migration Methods
Emails are transferred via IMAP protocol, ensuring all messages, folder structures, and flags are preserved.
Calendars
Calendar events are migrated using native Zimbra APIs, maintaining appointments, meetings, and recurring events.
Contacts
Contacts are transferred using native Zimbra APIs, preserving all contact details and custom fields.
Tasks
Tasks and to-do items are migrated using native APIs, maintaining due dates and completion status.
Getting Started
- Ensure your Zimbra server is accessible from the internet
- Configure firewall rules for required ports
- Create a Cloudiway account and project
- Configure the Zimbra connector with server details
- Add users and start migration