Migrating from Strato to Theory7: from German to Dutch
Why customers consider migrating from Strato to Theory7
Strato is a large European hosting provider with an extensive infrastructure and years of experience. They are one of the largest hosting companies in Europe with data centers in Germany and offer reliable hosting packages with modern features such as SSD storage, free SSL and daily backups. For many users Strato is a solid choice.
Still, some customers consider migrating from Strato to a Dutch provider such as Theory7. The reasons vary: some look for a better price-performance ratio, others prefer Dutch support, and others again want access to more modern web server technology. In this article we make a fair comparison, so that you can decide which provider best suits your situation. Read more about migration.
Before we discuss migrating from Strato, it is fair to acknowledge that Strato is a big player in the European market.
Strato: large European provider with a solid foundation
Strato is not a small player. They serve millions of customers in Europe and have built an extensive infrastructure. Their strengths are:
- Large European provider - years of experience and extensive infrastructure
- Data centers in Germany - modern facilities with good connectivity
- Daily backups - up to 22 days of backup retention
- Unlimited data traffic - no limits on bandwidth
- 24/7 phone support - reachable on weekends too
- Attractive introductory prices - first months from €1 per month
For users who look for a large, established provider, Strato offers certainty. The main question is whether the service and specifications match what you need, and whether you get value for your money after the introductory period.
If you are considering migrating from Strato, it is important to compare the packages fairly side by side on price and features.
Fair price comparison: Strato vs Theory7
Let us objectively compare the packages side by side. Strato uses introductory prices for the first months, after which the regular price applies. We list both prices for transparency:
| Specification | Strato Starter | Theory7 Basic | Strato Basic | Theory7 Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introductory price | €1.00 (6-12 mo) | - | €1.00 (6-12 mo) | - |
| Regular price | €3.00/month | €4.99/month | €6.00+/month | €7.99/month |
| SSD storage | 50 GB | 250 GB | 100 GB | 500 GB |
| Websites | Unlimited | 25 | Unlimited | 50 |
| Databases | 2 | Unlimited | More than 2 | Unlimited |
| Email accounts | 1 | Unlimited | Multiple | Unlimited |
| SSL certificate | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Web server | Apache | LiteSpeed Enterprise | Apache | LiteSpeed Enterprise |
| Data traffic | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Backups | 22 days | 7 days | 22 days | 7 days |
What stands out: after the introductory period Theory7 offers considerably more storage space, unlimited databases and unlimited email accounts for a comparable or even lower price. Strato's Starter package has only 1 email account and 2 databases, which is too limited for many businesses.
The comparison shows that migrating from Strato to Theory7 offers advantages in terms of price, performance and support.
Where Theory7 really makes the difference
LiteSpeed Enterprise for maximum performance
The biggest technical difference when migrating from Strato to Theory7 is the web server technology. Strato uses Apache, a reliable but older technology. Theory7 uses LiteSpeed Enterprise on all packages - a modern web server developed specifically for maximum performance.
LiteSpeed is up to 9x faster for static content and up to 3x faster for PHP applications such as WordPress. For WordPress users this is extra interesting: LiteSpeed has native integration with the free LiteSpeed Cache plugin, which offers superior caching at no extra cost. Want to know more? Read our article on making WordPress faster with LiteSpeed.
Faster load times mean a better user experience, higher conversions and better SEO rankings. Google uses page speed as a ranking factor, so a faster website can have a direct impact on your findability.
Substantially more storage space
Theory7's entry package (€4.99) offers 250 GB of SSD storage - that is 5x more than Strato's Starter package (50 GB) and 2.5x more than Strato's Basic package (100 GB). The Theory7 Plus package (€7.99) offers no less than 500 GB of storage.
This space is not only handy for large websites with many images and videos, but also for extensive email storage, staging environments and multiple website projects. You do not have to constantly clean up or delete old backups.
Unlimited databases and email accounts
Strato's Starter package has only 2 databases and 1 email account. For a modern business with multiple employees this is too limited. Theory7 offers unlimited databases and email accounts on all packages, even the entry package of €4.99.
This means every team member can have their own professional email address, and you can run as many WordPress installations or other applications as you want without being limited by database limits.
Dutch support instead of German-oriented service
Although Strato offers Dutch-language support, it is a German company with a primarily German focus. Theory7 is a Dutch provider with Dutch owners, Dutch servers and a support team that is fully attuned to the Dutch market.
This makes a difference in accessibility, cultural fit and understanding of local regulations such as GDPR legislation. You communicate with people who understand Dutch business culture and can advise on hosting matters that are specifically relevant to Dutch companies. Read more about the advantages of Dutch hosting support.
Transparent prices without surprises
Strato's €1.00 introductory price is attractive, but after 6-12 months you pay the regular price, which is substantially higher. Theory7 uses fixed prices: €4.99 stays €4.99, even after years. This makes budgeting easier and prevents unexpected cost increases when renewing your contract.
Migrating from Strato is easy: Theory7 offers a free SiteSwitch migration that handles the entire process for you.
What Strato does better
Fairness requires us to mention where Strato has strong points:
- Longer backup retention - 22 days versus Theory7's 7 days (although with Theory7 you can also run your own backup solutions)
- Very low introductory price - €1 per month is interesting for testing (but watch out for the regular price afterwards)
- Large infrastructure - extensive European data center footprint with redundancy
- 24/7 phone support - directly reachable by phone on weekends too
For users who mainly value longer backup retention or the certainty of a very large infrastructure, Strato can be a good choice. For most business users and developers, however, Theory7 offers better specifications and more modern technology for a transparent price.
How to migrate from Strato to Theory7?
Migrating from Strato to Theory7 is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a smooth migration:
Step 1: Choose the right Theory7 package
Analyze your current usage at Strato. For most single websites with a few email accounts the Basic package (€4.99) is sufficient. Do you have multiple sites, large databases or need a lot of email storage? Then choose Plus (€7.99) or Premium (€12.99). Theory7's packages are flexible and you can always upgrade.
Step 2: Register your new Theory7 account
Sign up with Theory7 and choose your desired package. You do not have to cancel your Strato hosting right away - it is wise to run both accounts in parallel for a short period during the transition.
Step 3: Use the free SiteSwitch migration service
Theory7 offers a free SiteSwitch service where our technicians migrate your complete website, including all files, databases, email configurations and DNS settings. You do not have to do anything yourself - we take care of the entire migration. More information about migrating a website without downtime.
Step 4: Test thoroughly in your new environment
After the migration is completed, test everything extensively. Check whether all pages load correctly, forms work, email sending functions and plugins function correctly. Theory7 offers a staging URL so that you can test before you go live.
Step 5: DNS change and canceling Strato
When everything is tested and approved, you change the DNS records of your domain name to the Theory7 nameservers. DNS propagation usually takes 4-24 hours. After your site runs fully on Theory7 and everything works, you can cancel your Strato account. Also see our article on speeding up DNS propagation.
Frequently asked questions about migrating from Strato to Theory7
Can I keep my .nl domain name from Strato?
Yes, you can keep your domain name in two ways. You can transfer the domain name to Theory7 (whereby Theory7 becomes your new domain registrar), or you can leave the domain at Strato and only change the DNS nameservers to Theory7. Both methods work excellently. A transfer usually takes 5-7 days, a DNS change is effective within 24 hours.
What happens to my emails during the migration?
Emails keep working during the migration. The best approach is to first create all email accounts at Theory7 and copy over existing emails via IMAP sync. Only then do you change the DNS. During DNS propagation emails can arrive on both servers, so it is wise to check both accounts for a few days until the DNS has fully propagated.
Below we answer frequently asked questions about migrating from Strato to a Dutch provider.
How long does the migration with SiteSwitch take?
For standard WordPress or PHP websites the migration usually takes 1-3 working days. Very complex websites with large databases (10GB+), custom applications or special server configurations can take a bit longer. Our technicians schedule the migration at a time when your website is used the least and keep you continuously informed.
Are there any costs involved in the migration?
No, the SiteSwitch service is completely free at Theory7. There are no hidden costs or setup fees. You only pay for your chosen hosting package from €4.99 per month. The migration, including all technical work and support, is included for free.
What if I am not satisfied after the migration?
Theory7 does not offer a hard money-back guarantee, but we do everything we can to make you satisfied. If you are not satisfied, please contact our support team. We are happy to help you with configuration, optimization or solving any problems. Our goal is for you to be fully satisfied with your hosting solution.
Migrating from Strato: complete migration steps
When migrating from Strato to another provider there are specific steps you need to follow. Strato has its own way of working for domain transfers and data migration.
Exporting data from Strato
Log in to your Strato customer portal and navigate to your web hosting management. Download all your website files via FTP with a program such as FileZilla. Export your databases via phpMyAdmin, which is available through the Strato panel. Make a backup of your email accounts by downloading all messages with an email client via IMAP. Also note all DNS settings, SSL configurations and any cron jobs you have set up.
Requesting the auth code from Strato
To transfer your domain you need an auth code. At Strato you request this via the customer portal under domain management. After the request you receive the code by email. Note that Strato uses a notice period for hosting contracts. Cancel your hosting in time to avoid double costs, but keep the account active until the full migration is completed and verified.
Planning the migration timeline
| Step | Duration | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 1-2 days | Inventory and making backups |
| Week 1 | 1 day | Configuring new hosting |
| Week 1-2 | 1-3 days | Migrating and testing data |
| Week 2 | 1 day | Requesting the auth code |
| Week 2 | 1-5 days | Performing the domain transfer |
| Week 3 | 2-3 days | DNS propagation and verification |
Migrating from Strato: post-migration checklist
After completing the Strato migration you go through this checklist to make sure everything works correctly.
Functional verification
Systematically test all parts of your website on the new server. Check all pages, forms, download links and interactive elements. Verify that email is sent and received correctly on all accounts. Test the website on different browsers and devices. Check whether SSL is configured correctly by verifying that the padlock icon appears in the browser. Monitor the website extra closely during the first week.
Closing the Strato account
Only cancel your Strato account after you are sure the full migration succeeded. Wait at least two weeks after the DNS switchover. Keep your Strato login details and a copy of your invoice data for your records. Check whether automatic payments are stopped after the cancellation to prevent unwanted charges.
Also see our guide for migrating from Hostnet and migrating from Vimexx as a reference for other providers.
Migrating from Strato: frequently asked questions
When planning a Strato migration path, many of the same questions come up. Below we answer the most important questions about the migration process.
How long does the domain transfer from Strato take?
The duration of a domain transfer depends on the extension. A .nl domain is usually transferred within a few hours. A .com domain can take up to 5 working days. Strato has to approve the transfer, which in most cases happens automatically. Check that no domain lock is active that blocks the transfer. The auth code is essential for initiating the transfer with your new provider.
Can I test my website before I change the DNS?
Yes, by adjusting the hosts file on your computer you can view your website on the new server without other visitors noticing anything. Add a line that links your domain name to the IP address of the new server. That way you can test all functionality before you make the definitive DNS switchover. After testing you remove the line from the hosts file again.
Frequently asked questions about the migration
- Will I lose my search rankings? With a correctly executed migration you keep your search rankings. Make sure the URL structure stays identical and set up 301 redirects for any changed pages.
- Do I have to reinstall my SSL certificate? Yes, you need a new SSL certificate on the new server. Most providers offer free certificates that are configured automatically.
- What if something goes wrong during the migration? Keep your backups on hand and make sure your Strato account stays active until the migration is fully verified. That way you can always fall back on the old situation.
- Can I transfer only my domain and keep the hosting at Strato? Yes, domain transfer and hosting migration are independent processes. You can transfer your domain to a new registrar and leave the hosting at Strato, or the other way around.
Migrating from Strato: summary and recommendations
With the right preparation and a structured plan, migrating from Strato to a new provider is a manageable process that benefits your website.
The three golden rules for a successful migration
Rule one: make extensive backups of all your data before you start and keep them in a safe external location. Rule two: test everything on the new server before you change the DNS records, so that visitors never see a non-functioning website. Rule three: keep both hosting accounts active at the same time for at least two weeks as a safety net for unexpected problems.
What to expect after the migration
After a successful migration from Strato you can expect various improvements. The load speed of your website can improve thanks to better server infrastructure. Customer service may be more accessible and faster. You may have more features and storage space at your disposal. The costs can be lower with a better price-performance ratio. Monitor your website performance and compare it with the situation at Strato to concretely establish the improvements.
Migrating from Strato: experiences and frequently asked questions
Users who decide to migrate from Strato to another provider share valuable insights. The most mentioned reason for leaving is the need for more flexibility and better Dutch-language support. Strato focuses primarily on the German market, which means Dutch customers sometimes run into language barriers with complex technical questions. After switching, users usually report faster load times and more satisfaction with customer service. The most important advice is to prepare the migration carefully by exporting all data before you cancel the account at Strato.
After migrating from Strato
As soon as the migration from Strato is completed, take time to test all functionality thoroughly. Check all pages, forms, email addresses and any API integrations. Monitor performance during the first weeks to verify that everything functions properly. Inform your customers and contacts about your new hosting environment so that they can contact you directly in case of any problems.
